SENSOR ASSEMBLY, SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR IDENTIFYING A DEVICE CONNECTED TO A DEVICE CONNECTOR - Patent application

Abstract

The sensor assembly may include a sensor surrounding the connector of the medical device. The sensor may be configured to detect a dimension of an end of the other connector of the other medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device. The system may include a sensor assembly and one or more processors programmed and / or configured to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension. The method may include detecting, with the sensor surrounding the connector of the medical device, a dimension of an end of the other connector of the other medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device, and determining, with the at least one processor, a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to identifying devices, and in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, to systems, devices, articles of manufacture, apparatus, and / or methods for identifying a device that is about to be connected or has been connected to a device connector.

[0002] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 975,430, filed February 12, 2020 ("Sensor Assembly, and System, Method, and Computer Program Product for Identifying a Device Connected to a Device Connector"), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0003] (Technical considerations) Existing systems in the medical field can detect when two devices are connected to each other using RFID technology or an electrical connection between the two devices. However, these existing systems cannot identify the type of medical device connected without detecting the identification number of the medical device. For example, an RFID tag may store an identification number, and a barcode reader may be used to read a barcode containing the identification number associated with the medical device. In this manner, communication between the device, reader, and / or tag may be required, and / or a medical device without an RFID tag or barcode (or an incompatible tag or barcode) cannot be identified. Therefore, there is a need in the art for improved identification of devices connected to a device connector. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Thus, an improved system, device, article of manufacture, apparatus, and / or method for identifying a device connected to a device connector is provided.

[0005] According to certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, there is provided a sensor assembly including a sensor surrounding a connector of a medical device, the sensor configured to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of another medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device.

[0006] According to certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a system is provided that includes a sensor surrounding a connector of a medical device, the sensor configured to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of another medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device, and one or more processors programmed and / or configured to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

[0007] According to certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a method is provided that includes detecting, using a sensor surrounding a connector of the medical device, a dimension of an end of another connector of the other medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device, and determining, using at least one processor, a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

[0008] According to certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a computer program product is provided that includes at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium that includes program instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least the processor to control sensors surrounding a connector of the medical device to detect dimensions of an end of another connector of the other medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device, and to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimensions.

[0009] Further embodiments or aspects are described in the following numbered clauses.

[0010] Item 1. A sensor assembly including a sensor surrounding a connector of a medical device, the sensor configured to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of another medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device.

[0011] Item 2. The sensor assembly according to item 1, wherein the sensor includes a force sensor.

[0012] Item 3. A sensor assembly described in either item 1 or 2, wherein the force sensor includes a plurality of switches arranged at different distances from the center of the connector of the medical device, and each switch of the plurality of switches is configured to be actuated in response to a physical force applied to the switch.

[0013] Item 4. The plurality of switches includes a plurality of conductive circuits surrounding the connector of the medical device, In item 3 The sensor assembly described herein.

[0014] Item 5. The plurality of conductive circuits includes a plurality of concentric rings, In item 4 The sensor assembly described herein.

[0015] Item 6. The plurality of switches includes a flexible layer of conductive or semiconductive material on the plurality of conductive circuits; Term 4 or 6. A sensor assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 5.

[0016] Item 7. The flexible layer of conductive or semiconductive material comprises a force-sensing resistor or a carbon and / or graphite-infused polymer; In item 6 The sensor assembly described herein.

[0017] Item 8. The plurality of switches includes a water-impermeable coating surrounding the flexible layer and the plurality of conductive circuits; Item 6 or 8. A sensor assembly according to any one of 7.

[0018] Item 9. The plurality of switches includes a layer of anisotropic elastic material on the flexible layer. 6 A sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

[0019] Item 10. The plurality of switches includes a spring-loaded metal ring on the plurality of conductive circuits. 4 A sensor assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

[0020] Item 11. The sensor assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 10, wherein the sensor includes an optical sensor.

[0021] Item 12. A sensor assembly according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein the sensor is removably attached to the connector of the medical device.

[0022] Item 13. A sensor assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 12, wherein the sensor is integrally formed with the connector of the medical device.

[0023] Item 14. The sensor assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 13, wherein the connector includes a needleless connector or a luer connector.

[0024] Item 15. A sensor assembly described in any one of items 1 to 14, wherein the detected dimensions include at least one of (i) the distance from the center of the connector of the medical device to the outer edge of the end of the other connector of the other medical device, and (ii) the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

[0025] Item 16. A sensor assembly described in any of items 1 to 15, further comprising an indicator configured to provide at least one of an audio indication and a visual indication associated with the dimension of the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

[0026] Item 17. A sensor assembly described in any of items 1 to 16, further comprising a wireless communication device configured to communicate to a remote computing device information associated with at least one of: (i) the dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device; and (ii) connection or disconnection of the medical device to or from the other medical device.

[0027] Item 18. A sensor assembly described in any of items 1 to 17, further comprising one or more processors programmed and / or configured to determine the type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

[0028] Item 19. A system including a sensor surrounding a connector of a medical device, the sensor configured to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to a connector of the medical device, and one or more processors programmed and / or configured to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

[0029] Item 20. The system described in Item 19, wherein the sensor includes a force sensor, the force sensor includes a plurality of switches positioned at different distances from the center of the connector of the medical device, each switch of the plurality of switches configured to be activated in response to a physical force applied to the switch, and activation of the switch of the plurality of switches that is farthest from the center of the connector of the medical device is associated with the dimension of the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

[0030] Item 21. A system described in any of items 19 and 20, wherein the sensor includes an optical sensor and the detected dimensions include at least one of (i) the distance from the center of the connector of the medical device to the outer edge of the end of the other connector of the other medical device, and (ii) the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

[0031] Clause 22. The system described in any of clauses 19 to 21, further comprising a wireless communication device configured to communicate to the one or more processors information associated with at least one of: (i) the dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device; and (ii) the connection or disconnection of the medical device to or from the other medical device.

[0032] Item 23. The type of the other medical device includes a syringe, a catheter, or a disinfection cap. , term 23. A system according to any one of 19 to 22.

[0033] Item 24. A method comprising: using a sensor surrounding a connector of a medical device to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to a connector of the medical device; and using at least one processor to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

[0034] Clause 25. The method described in clause 24, wherein detecting the dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device includes detecting at least one of (i) the distance from the center of the connector of the medical device to the outer edge of the end of the other connector of the other medical device, and (ii) the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

[0035] Clause 26. The method of any of clauses 24 and 25, further comprising using an indicator to provide at least one of an audio indication and a visual indication associated with the dimension of the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

[0036] Item 27. A sensor assembly described in any of items 24 to 26, further comprising using a wireless radio device to communicate to a remote computing device information associated with at least one of: (i) dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device; and (ii) connection or disconnection of the medical device to or from the other medical device.

[0037] Clause 28. Further comprising using at least one processor to control fluid flow within a fluid flow path including the medical device and the other medical device based on the information. , in Section 27 The method described.

[0038] Clause 29. A computer program product including at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to control a sensor surrounding a connector of a medical device to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to a connector of the medical device, and to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

[0039] Clause 30. The computer program product of clause 29, wherein the instructions further cause the at least one processor to control an indicator to provide at least one of an audio indication and a visual indication associated with the dimension of the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

[0040] These and other features and characteristics of the present disclosure, as well as the method of operation and function of the associated elements of structure, combination of parts, and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent from a consideration of the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part hereof, and in which like reference numerals indicate corresponding parts in the various views. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. As used in this specification and claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0041] Additional advantages and details of embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure are explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying schematic drawings.

[0042] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an environment in which the systems, devices, articles of manufacture, apparatus, and / or methods described herein may be implemented. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of one or more devices and / or components of one or more systems of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of components of one or more devices of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of components of one or more devices of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of one or more device components of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of one or more device components of FIG. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of one or more device components of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of one or more device components of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for identifying a device connected to a device connector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] It is to be understood that the present disclosure may contemplate various alternative modifications and step sequences, unless expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and described in the following specification, are merely exemplary and limiting embodiments or aspects of the invention. As such, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

[0044] Hereinafter, for purposes of explanation, the terms "end," "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "lateral," "longitudinal," and their derivatives shall refer to the present invention as oriented in the drawings. It should be understood that the present disclosure may contemplate various alternative modifications and step sequences unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting, unless otherwise indicated.

[0045] As used herein, aspects, components, elements, structures, acts, steps, functions, instructions, and / or the like should not be construed as critical or essential unless expressly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" and "at least one." Furthermore, as used herein, the term "set" is intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, combinations of related and unrelated items, etc.) and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" or "at least one." Where only one item is intended, the term "one" or similar language is used. Also, as used herein, the terms "has," "have," "having," etc. are intended to be open-ended terms. Furthermore, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least in part on," unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0046] As used herein, the terms “communication” and “communicating” refer to the receipt or transfer of one or more signals, messages, commands, or other types of data. For one unit (e.g., any device, system, or component thereof) to communicate with another unit means that the unit can receive data from and / or transmit data to the other unit, directly or indirectly. This may refer to a direct or indirect connection that is wired and / or wireless in nature. Furthermore, two units may communicate with each other even if the transmitted data is modified, processed, relayed, and / or routed between the first and second units. For example, a first unit may communicate with a second unit even if the first unit passively receives data and does not actively transmit data to the second unit. As another example, a first unit may communicate with a second unit if an intermediate unit processes data from the one unit and transmits the processed data to the second unit. It will be appreciated that many other arrangements are possible.

[0047] It will be apparent that the systems and / or methods described herein may be implemented in different forms of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The actual dedicated control hardware or software code used to implement these systems and / or methods is not limiting of the implementation. Thus, the operation and behavior of the systems and / or methods are described herein without reference to specific software code, and it will be understood that software and hardware can be designed to implement the systems and / or methods based on the description herein.

[0048] Some non-limiting embodiments or aspects are described herein in relation to thresholds. As used herein, meeting a threshold can mean that a value is greater than the threshold, more than the threshold, higher than the threshold, equal to or greater than the threshold, less than the threshold, less than the threshold, lower than the threshold, or equal to or less than the threshold.

[0049] As used herein, the terms “computing device” or “computer device” may refer to one or more electronic devices configured to communicate directly or indirectly with or through one or more networks. A computing device may be a mobile device, a desktop computer, etc. Furthermore, the term “computer” may refer to any computing device that includes the components necessary to receive, process, and output data, typically including a display, a processor, memory, input devices, and a network interface. An “application” or “application program interface” (API) refers to computer code or other data sorted on a computer-readable medium that can be executed by a processor to facilitate interaction between software components for receiving data from a client, such as a client-side front-end and / or a server-side back-end. An “interface” refers to a generated display, such as one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs), with which a user can interact directly or indirectly (e.g., via a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, etc.).

[0050] As used herein, the term "server" may mean or include one or more processors or computers, storage devices, or similar computer configurations that operate or facilitate communications and processing for multiple parties in a network environment, such as the Internet, although it will be understood that communications may be facilitated through one or more public or private network environments, and various other configurations may be possible. Furthermore, multiple computers, e.g., servers, or other computerized devices, such as POS devices, communicating directly or indirectly within a network environment may comprise a "system," such as a retailer's POS system. As used herein, the term "data center" may include one or more servers, other computing devices, and / or databases.

[0051] As used herein, the term "mobile device" may refer to one or more portable electronic devices configured to communicate with one or more networks. As an example, a mobile device may include a mobile phone (e.g., a smartphone or a standard mobile phone), a portable computer (e.g., a tablet computer, a laptop computer, etc.), a wearable device (e.g., a watch, eyeglasses, lenses, clothing, and / or the like), a personal digital assistant (PDA), and / or other similar devices. As used herein, the terms "client device" and "user device" refer to any electronic device configured to communicate with one or more servers or remote devices and / or systems. A client device or user device may include a mobile device, a network-enabled appliance (e.g., a network-enabled television, a refrigerator, a thermostat, and / or the like), a computer, and / or any other device or system capable of communicating with a network.

[0052] As used herein, the term "application" or "application program interface" (API) means computer code, a set of rules, or other data sorted on a computer-readable medium that can be executed by a processor to facilitate interaction between software components for receiving data from a client, such as a client-side front-end and / or a server-side back-end. "Interface" means a generated display, such as one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs), with which a user can interact directly or indirectly (e.g., via a keyboard, mouse, etc.).

[0053] A non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a sensor assembly including a sensor surrounding a connector of a medical device, the sensor configured to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of another medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device. In this manner, a low-cost sensor for a medical device connector may be provided that allows for detection of an attached device and identification of the attached device based on a dimension of the end of the connector of the device.

[0054] Non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure are directed to systems, methods, and computer program products that use sensors surrounding a connector of a medical device to detect dimensions of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of another medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device, and determine the type of the other medical device based on the detected dimensions. In this manner, devices may be identified without using communication between devices, readers, and / or tags, and / or without relying on RFID tags or barcodes to provide the device's identification number.

[0055] 1, there is shown a non-limiting embodiment, or aspect, of an environment 100 in which the systems, devices, products, apparatus, and / or methods described herein may be implemented. As shown in FIG. 1, the environment 100 may include a medical device 102, another medical device 104, a sensor assembly 106, a communication network 108, and / or a remote computing device 110.

[0056] The medical device 102 and another medical device 104 may be configured to physically connect to one another, as described in more detail herein. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a medical device (e.g., the medical device 102, another medical device 104, etc.) may include a syringe, a catheter, an antiseptic cap, and / or the like. For example, a type of medical device may include at least one of a syringe, a syringe size, a catheter, an antiseptic cap, or any combination thereof. Further details regarding non-limiting embodiments or aspects of medical devices are provided below with respect to FIG. 3.

[0057] The sensor assembly 106 may be attached (e.g., removably attached, permanently attached, etc.) to or integrally formed with the medical device 102, as described in more detail herein. The sensor assembly 106 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information and / or data from and / or communicating information and / or data to a remote computing device 110 and / or another sensor assembly 106 (e.g., via the communications network 108, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 includes one or more computing devices, chips, contactless transmitters, contactless transceivers, NFC transmitters, RFID transmitters, contact-based transmitters, and / or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 may include one or more devices capable of transmitting information to a remote computing system 110 and / or another sensor assembly 106 via a short-range wireless communication connection (e.g., a communication connection using an NFC protocol, a communication connection using radio frequency identification (RFID), a communication connection using the Bluetooth® wireless technology standard, and / or the like). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 includes an integrated power source (not shown), such as a battery, and / or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 receives power via a wirelessly transmitted power source, such as RF transmission, and / or the like, from another sensor assembly 106 and / or a remote computing device 110. Further details regarding non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the sensor assembly 106 are provided below with respect to FIGS. 3-8.

[0058] The network 108 may include one or more wired and / or wireless networks. For example, the network 108 may include a cellular network (e.g., a long-term evolution (LTE) network, a third-generation (3G) network, a fourth-generation (4G) network, a fifth-generation (5G) network, a code division multiple access (CDMA) network, etc.), a public land mobile network (PLMN), a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a telephone network (e.g., a public switched telephone network (PSTN)), a private network, an ad hoc network, an intranet, the Internet, a fiber-optic-based network, a cloud computing network, and / or the like, and / or combinations of these or other types of networks.

[0059] The remote computing device 110 may include one or more devices that can receive information and / or data from the sensor assembly 106 and / or another remote computing network 110 (e.g., via the communications network 108, etc.) and / or communicate information and / or data to the sensor assembly 106 and / or another remote computing network 110 (e.g., via the communications network 108, etc.). For example, the remote computing device 110 may include a computing device, a server, a group of servers, a mobile device, a group of mobile devices, and / or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the remote computing device 110 includes one or more computing devices, chips, contactless transmitters, contactless transceivers, NFC transmitters, RFID transmitters, contact-based transmitters, and / or the like that enable the remote computing device 110 to receive information directly from and / or communicate information directly to the sensor assembly 106 via a short-range wireless communication connection (e.g., a communication connection using an NFC protocol, a communication connection using radio frequency identification (RFID), a communication connection using the Bluetooth® wireless technology standard, and / or the like). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the remote computing device 110 may be implemented within the sensor assembly 106. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the remote computing device 110 is configured as a bedside unit that can be placed near the patient. For example, the bedside unit can be connected to a wall in the patient's room, an IV pole, and / or a carrier held in an appropriate position near the patient's bed (e.g., between the mattresses) near the side of the patient or bed. The bedside device can display audio and / or visual alerts and / or instructions, as described in more detail herein.

[0060] The number and arrangement of devices and systems shown in Figure 1 are provided as an example. There may be additional, fewer, different, or differently arranged devices and / or systems than those shown in Figure 1. Furthermore, two or more of the devices and / or systems shown in Figure 1 may be implemented within a single device and / or system, and the devices and / or systems shown in Figure 1 may be implemented as multiple distributed devices and / or systems. Additionally or alternatively, a set of devices and / or systems (e.g., one or more devices or systems) of environment 100 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of devices or systems of environment 100.

[0061] 2, which is a diagram illustrating components of an exemplary device 200. Device 200 may correspond to sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110 may include at least one device 200 and / or at least one component of device 200. As shown in FIG. 2, device 200 may include a bus 202, a processor 204, a memory 206, a storage component 208, an input component 210, an output component 212, and a communication interface 214.

[0062] Bus 202 may include components that enable communication between components of device 200. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, processor 204 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, processor 204 may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), etc.), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and / or any processing component (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.) and / or the like that is programmable to perform functions. Memory 206 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, etc.) that stores information and / or instructions for use by processor 204.

[0063] The storage component 208 may store information and / or software related to the operation and use of the device 200. For example, the storage component 208 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, solid-state disk, etc.), a compact disk (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and / or another type of computer-readable medium along with a corresponding drive.

[0064] Input components 210 may include components that enable device 200 to receive information, for example, via user input (e.g., a touchscreen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, buttons, switches, a microphone, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, input components 210 may include sensors for detecting information (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS) component, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an actuator, etc.). Output components 212 may include components that provide output information from device 200 (e.g., a display, a speaker, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), etc.).

[0065] Communications interface 214 may include transceiver-like components (e.g., a walkie-talkie, a separate receiver and transmitter, etc.) that enable device 200 to communicate with other devices, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. Communications interface 214 may enable device 200 to receive information from other devices and / or provide information to another device. For example, communications interface 214 may include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a cellular network interface, and / or the like.

[0066] The device 200 may perform one or more processes described herein. The device 200 may perform these processes based on the processor 204 executing software instructions stored on a computer-readable medium, such as the memory 206 and / or the storage component 208. A computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) is defined herein as a non-transitory memory device. A memory device includes a memory space located within a single physical storage device or a memory space spanning multiple physical storage devices.

[0067] Software instructions may be loaded into memory 206 and / or storage component 208 from another computer-readable medium or from another device via communication interface 214. When executed, the software instructions stored in memory 206 and / or storage component 208 may cause processor 204 to perform one or more processes described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to perform one or more processes described herein. Thus, the embodiments or aspects described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0068] The memory 206 and / or the storage component 208 may include data storage or one or more data structures (e.g., databases, etc.). The device 200 may be able to receive information from, store information in, transmit information to, or retrieve information stored in the data storage or one or more data structures in the memory 206 and / or the storage component 208.

[0069] The number and arrangement of components shown in Figure 2 are provided as an example. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, device 200 may include additional, fewer, different, or differently arranged components than those shown in Figure 2. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of device 200 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of device 200.

[0070] Referring now to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is a diagram of exemplary components of the medical device 102 (and / or medical device 104). For example, the medical device 102 may include a body 302, a connector 304, a connector tip 306, and a connector end 308. The connector end 308 may be located at the distal end of the connector tip 306 of the connector 304 opposite the connector body 302. The center C of the connector 304 (e.g., the center C of the cross-sectional area A defined by the connector end 308, etc.) may correspond to the longitudinal axis of the connector 304. Additionally or alternatively, in the case of a sensor assembly 106 that completely surrounds the connector 304 of the medical device 102, the center C of the sensor assembly 106 (e.g., the center C of the cross-sectional area A defined by the distal end of the sensor assembly 106, etc.) may correspond to the longitudinal axis of the sensor assembly 106 and / or the connector 304. The connector 304 of the medical device 102 may be configured to physically connect (e.g., mate, attach, lock, press fit, etc.) to a complementary connector 304 of another medical device 104. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the connector 304 comprises a needleless connector (e.g., a BD MaxZero® connector, etc.), a luer connector, a catheter end connection, and / or the like.

[0071] As further shown in FIG. 3 , the sensor assembly 106 may surround the connector 304 of the medical device 102. For example, the sensor assembly 106 may surround the connector 304 of the medical device 102 at the connector tip 306 (e.g., at the distal end of the connector 304 proximate the connector end 308). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 may completely surround the connector 304 of the medical device 102. For example, the sensor assembly 106 may have a ring shape as shown in FIG. 3 . In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 may only partially surround the connector 304 of the medical device 102. For example, the sensor assembly 106 may have a C-shape. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 may be removably attached to the connector 304 (e.g., removably attached to the connector tip 306, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 may be integrally formed with the connector 304 (eg, integrally formed with the connector tip 306).

[0072] The number and arrangement of components shown in Figure 3 are provided as an example. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, medical device 102 (and / or medical device 104) may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components in a different arrangement than those shown in Figure 3.

[0073] 4, which is a diagram of example components of the sensor assembly 106. The sensor assembly 106 may include a connection sensor 402, an indicator 404, and / or a wireless communication device 406.

[0074] The connection sensor 402 may be configured to detect a dimension of an end of the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104 when the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104 is connected to the connector 304 of the medical device 102. For example, the detected dimension may include at least one of (i) a distance of an outer edge of the end 308 of the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104 from a center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 104, and (ii) a cross-sectional area A of the end 308 of the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the connection sensor 402 may be configured to detect connection and / or disconnection of the medical device 102 from the other medical device 104. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the connection sensor 402 may include a force sensor and / or an optical sensor.

[0075] The indicator 404 may be configured to provide at least one of an audio indication and a visual indication associated with the size of the end 308 of the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104. For example, the indicator 404 may include an LED, a vibrating element, a speaker, and / or the like. As an example, the indicator 404 may output different colored LED lights and / or different sounds to indicate different sizes or types of the other medical device 104. In such an example, a first output (e.g., a blue light, etc.) of indicator 404 may correspond to a first type of medical device associated with the detected dimension (e.g., a syringe, a particular syringe size, etc.), a second output (e.g., a green light, etc.) of indicator 404 may correspond to a second type of medical device different from the first type of medical device associated with the detected dimension (e.g., a disinfection cap, a syringe of a different size, etc.), and / or an nth output (e.g., a red light, etc.) of indicator 404 may correspond to an nth type of medical device different from the first and second types of medical devices associated with the detected dimension (e.g., a catheter, a syringe of a different size, etc.).

[0076] The wireless communication device 406 may be configured to communicate information associated with the dimensions of the end 308 of the other connector 306 of the other medical device 104 (and / or the type of the other medical device 104) to the remote computing device 110. For example, the wireless communication device 406 may communicate an indication of the dimensions of the end 308 of the other connector 306 of the other medical device 104 and / or an indication of the type of the other medical device 104. As an example, the wireless communication device 406 may communicate an indication of, and / or a time associated therewith, connection of the other medical device 104 to the medical device 102, and / or an indication of, and / or a time associated therewith, removal of the other medical device 104 from the medical device 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the wireless communication device 406 is configured to communicate the information continuously, periodically, and / or in response to at least one of the following: receiving a polling signal from the remote computing device 110 and / or another sensor assembly 106, activation of the connection sensor 402, or any combination thereof.

[0077] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the connected sensor 402, indicator 404, and / or wireless communication device 406 are sealed from the environment and / or independently. For example, the connected sensor 402, indicator 404, and / or wireless communication device 406 may be sealed and / or integrally formed within a water-impermeable coating (e.g., a polyimide washer, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the connected sensor 402, indicator 404, and / or wireless communication device 406 are sealed and / or integrally formed within the medical device 102.

[0078] The number and arrangement of components shown in Figure 4 are provided as an example. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, sensor assembly 106 may include additional, fewer, different, or differently arranged components than those shown in Figure 4. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of sensor assembly 106 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of device 106.

[0079] 5 is an exploded perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an implementation 500 related to the sensor assembly 106 shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 500 can be the same as or similar to the sensor assembly 106. As shown in FIG. 5, the sensor assembly 500 can include a force sensor 502. The force sensor 502 can include multiple switches 504 and / or a water-impermeable coating 505. The multiple switches 504 can be positioned at different distances from a center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 102. Each switch of the multiple switches 504 can be configured to be actuated to connect and / or disconnect the flow of electricity therethrough in response to a physical force applied to the switch.

[0080] The plurality of switches 504 may include a plurality of conductive circuits 506 surrounding the connector 304 of the medical device 102. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the plurality of conductive circuits may include a plurality of concentric rings 506a (e.g., copper rings, etc.) on a flexible circuit board 506b.

[0081] The plurality of switches 504 may include a flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material 508 over the plurality of conductive circuits 506. For example, the flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material 508 may include a force-sensing resistor or a carbon and / or graphite-infused polymer. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material 508 may include a flexible copper layer, a flexible silver powder coating, and / or the like. In response to physical pressure applied thereto, the flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material 508 may open or close one or more of the plurality of conductive circuits 506 to actuate one or more of the plurality of switches 504 to connect or disconnect the flow of electricity therethrough. For example, applying physical pressure to a flexible layer 508 of conductive or semi-conductive material above (e.g., directly above) a conductive circuit 506 may actuate a switch 504 corresponding to that conductive circuit 506, while the absence of physical pressure applied to the flexible layer 508 of conductive or semi-conductive material above a conductive circuit 506 may not actuate a switch 504 corresponding to that conductive circuit 506. As an example, multiple conductive circuits 506 positioned at different distances (e.g., as concentric ring circuits, etc.) from the center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 102 enable the flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material 508 to open or close different ones of those conductive circuits 506 in response to the application of physical pressure from the end 308 of the connector 304 of another medical device 104 having different dimensions (e.g., different distances of the outer edge of the end 308 of another connector 304 of another medical device 104 from the center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 104, different cross-sectional areas A of the end 308 of another connector 304 of another medical device 104, etc.). In such an example, actuation of the switch furthest from the center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 102 may be related to the dimension of the end 308 of the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104.

[0082] 6 is an exploded perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an implementation 600 related to the sensor assembly 106 shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 600 can be the same as or similar to the sensor assembly 106. As shown in FIG. 6, the sensor assembly 600 can include a force sensor 602. The force sensor 602 can include a plurality of switches 604 and / or a water-impermeable coating 605. The plurality of switches 604 can be positioned at different distances from a center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 102. Each switch of the plurality of switches 604 can be configured to be actuated to connect and / or disconnect the flow of electricity therethrough in response to a physical force applied to the switch.

[0083] The multiple switches 604 may include multiple conductive circuits 606 surrounding the connector 304 of the medical device 102. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the multiple conductive circuits may include multiple concentric rings 606a (e.g., copper rings, etc.) on a flexible circuit board 606b.

[0084] The plurality of switches 604 may include one or more spring-loaded metal rings 608 on the plurality of conductive circuits. In response to physical pressure applied thereto, the one or more spring-loaded metal rings 608 may open or close one or more of the plurality of conductive circuits 606 to actuate one or more of the plurality of switches 604 to connect or disconnect the flow of electricity therethrough. For example, the one or more spring-loaded metal rings 608 may open or close one or more of the plurality of conductive circuits 606 in response to physical pressure applied thereto to actuate one or more of the plurality of switches 604 to connect or disconnect the flow of electricity therethrough. 606 The application of physical pressure to a spring-loaded metal ring 608 on (e.g., directly above) the conductive circuit 606 Switches corresponding to 604 while the conductive circuit 606 The absence of physical pressure applied to the spring-loaded metal ring 608 on the 606 Switches corresponding to 604 As an example, multiple conductive circuits arranged at different distances (e.g., as concentric ring circuits, etc.) from the center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 102 may be used. 606In response to application of physical pressure from the end 308 of the connector 304 of another medical device 104 having different dimensions (e.g., different distances of the outer edge of the end 308 of the connector 304 of another medical device 104 from the center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 104, different cross-sectional areas A of the end 308 of the connector 304 of another medical device 104, etc.), one or more spring-loaded metal rings move in their conductive circuit. 606 In such an example, multiple switches can be connected to the center C of the connector 304 of the medical device 102. 604 The actuation of the farthest switch may be related to the dimensions of the end 308 of another connector 304 of another medical device 104 .

[0085] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an implementation 700 related to the sensor assembly 106 shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 700 can be the same as or similar to the sensor assembly 106. As shown in FIG. 7, the sensor assembly 700 can include a force sensor 702. The force sensor 702 can include a plurality of switches 704 and / or a water-impermeable coating 705. The plurality of switches 704 can include a plurality of conductive circuits 706 surrounding the connector 304 of the medical device 102. The plurality of switches 704 can include a flexible layer 708 on the plurality of conductive circuits 706 (e.g., a flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material on the plurality of conductive circuits 706, one or more spring-loaded metal rings on the plurality of conductive circuits 706, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the force sensor 702 can be the same as or similar to the force sensor 502 or the force sensor 602. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the plurality of switches 704 may include a plurality of switches 504 or multiple switches 604 Same as or similarIn some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, water-impermeable coating 705 can be the same as or similar to water-impermeable coating 505 or water-impermeable coating 605. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, plurality of conductive circuits 706 can be the same as or similar to plurality of conductive circuits 506 or plurality of conductive circuits 606. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, flexible layer 708 can be the same as or similar to flexible layer 508 of conductive or semi-conductive material on plurality of conductive circuits 706, one or more spring-loaded metal rings 608 on plurality of conductive circuits 706.

[0086] 7, the force sensor 702 may include a layer of anisotropic elastic material 710 on a flexible layer 708. For example, the layer of anisotropic elastic material 710 may have a stress transfer orientation such that a force applied to the layer of anisotropic elastic material 710 in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the medical device 102 is transferred by the layer of anisotropic elastic material 710 to the flexible layer 708, thereby allowing a physical force to be transferred over a distance to the flexible layer 708. As an example, the layer of anisotropic elastic material 710 may include an extruded material including polymer chains oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the medical device 102 (e.g., oriented along an axis perpendicular to the distal surface of the flexible layer 708). In such an example, the layer of anisotropic elastic material 710 may protect the flexible layer 708 when the device is attached to the medical device 102 and may transfer forces uniaxially from the attached device to an appropriate portion of the flexible layer 708. For example, preferred material properties may be such that when a device of a particular geometry and cross-section is attached to the needleless connector, the layer 710 of anisotropic elastic material faithfully transmits the approximate pressure distribution applied on the flexible layer 708.

[0087] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an implementation 800 related to the sensor assembly 106 shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 800 can be the same as or similar to the sensor assembly 106. As shown in FIG. 8, the sensor assembly 800 can include an optical sensor 802 and / or a water-impermeable coating 805. For example, the optical sensor 802 can be configured to detect at least one of (i) a distance from the center of the connector of the medical device to the outer edge of the end of the connector of the other medical device, and (ii) a cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connector of the other medical device. As an example, the optical sensor 802 can detect the attachment of an object of interest based on reflection of an interrogation light beam from the object of interest. As an example, the optical sensor 802 can include a light sensor, a camera, a color sensor, and / or the like. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 106 can include the optical sensor 802 and the force sensor 502, 602, or 702.

[0088] 9, a process 900 for identifying device connections within a connection area is shown. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more steps of process 900 may be performed (e.g., completely, partially, etc.) by sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110.

[0089] 9 , in step 902, the process 900 includes detecting a dimension of an end of a connector of a medical device. For example, the sensor assembly 106 may detect a dimension of the end of the connector of the medical device. As an example, the sensor assembly 106 may use a connection sensor 402 surrounding the connector 304 of the medical device 102 to detect a dimension of the end 308 of the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104 when the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104 is connected to the connector 304 of the medical device 102 (e.g., when the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104 is connected to the connector 304 of the medical device 102, when the other connector 304 of the other medical device 104 remains connected to the connector 304 of the medical device 102, etc.).

[0090] 9 , in step 904, process 900 includes determining a type of medical device based on the detected dimension. For example, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110 may determine the type of medical device based on the detected dimension. As an example, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110 may determine the type of another medical device 104 based on the detected dimension. In such an example, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110 may access a lookup table that correlates dimensions of the end 308 of connector 304 of medical devices 102, 104 (e.g., distance from the center of the connector of the medical device to the outer edge of the end of the connector of the medical device, cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the connector of the medical device, one or more activation switches, etc.) to a type of medical device associated with those dimensions.

[0091] 9 , in step 906, process 900 includes providing an indication of the type of medical device. For example, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110 may provide the indication of the type of medical device. As an example, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110 may provide at least one of an audio indication and a visual indication associated with the dimensions of the end of another connector of another medical device.

[0092] 9 , in step 908, process 900 includes communicating information associated with the detected dimension. For example, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110 may communicate information associated with the detected dimension. As an example, sensor assembly 106 and / or remote computing device 110, along with a wireless communication device, may communicate to remote computing device 110 information associated with at least one of (i) the dimension of the end of another connector of another medical device, and (ii) the connection or disconnection of medical device 102 to or from another medical device 104. In such an example, the information associated with the detected dimension may indicate a connection status of medical device 102 and another medical device 104. For example, the information may indicate a connection status, a disconnection status, a level of connection between medical device 102 and another medical device 104, and / or a time associated therewith.

[0093] It is noted that in the present disclosure, in addition to detecting various states of connection / disconnection, the system can be used to monitor fluid pathway preparation and / or maintenance. For example, other events that can be captured include disinfecting a device in the system, capping / decapping a device in the system, and monitoring the placement of a device in or out of the system (e.g., monitoring the placement of a catheter securement device). It is also contemplated herein that the system can detect additional disinfection processes, such as preparing an IV site with an antimicrobial agent.

[0094] 9, in step 910, process 900 includes monitoring and / or controlling one or more medical devices based on information associated with the detected dimensions. For example, remote computing device 110 may monitor and / or control one or more medical devices based on information associated with the detected dimensions.

[0095] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the remote computing device 110 may control the flow of fluid within a fluid flow path including the medical device 102 and another medical device 104 based on information associated with the detected dimensions. For example, the remote computing device 110 may issue an alert and / or control one or more devices within the fluid flow path to stop and / or adjust the flow of fluid, for example, using one or more electronically controlled valves, based on information associated with the detected dimensions (e.g., in response to information that the medical device 102 and another medical device 104 within the fluid flow path have been removed, in response to information that an incompatible medical device 104 has been connected to the medical device 102, etc.).

[0096] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the remote computing device 110 may receive a patient identifier associated with a patient, receive a drug identifier for a drug delivered to the patient via a fluid flow path that includes the medical device 102 and / or another medical device 104, associate the patient identifier and the drug identifier with the medical device 102 and / or another medical device 104 in the fluid flow path, and control the flow of fluid in the fluid flow path based at least in part on information associated with the patient identifier, the drug identifier, and / or the detected dimensions. As an example, the remote computing device 110 may determine at least one of a connection status at an inlet of the fluid flow path, a volume of fluid in the fluid flow path and / or at the inlet based on a determined type of device, a type of fluid or medication in the fluid flow path and / or at the inlet, a flow rate of fluid in the fluid flow path and / or at the inlet based on a determined type of device and / or type of medication, and / or any combination thereof. For example, the remote computing device 110 may compare the medication, medication dosage, medication route, and / or medication administration time determined based on information associated with the patient identifier, medication identifier, and / or detected dimension with an approved patient, approved medication, approved medication dosage, approved medication route, and / or approved medication administration time to reduce medication administration errors. Alerts The remote computing device 110 may issue an alert and / or control one or more devices in the fluid flow path to stop the flow of fluid and / or adjust the flow of fluid. For example, if a medication detected at an inlet in the fluid flow path is determined to be an inappropriate medication for the patient, an inappropriate dosage for the patient or medication, an inappropriate route of medication administration for the patient or medication (e.g., an inappropriate inlet in the fluid flow path), and / or an inappropriate time of medication administration for the patient or medication, the remote computing device 110 may issue an alert and / or control one or more devices in the fluid flow path to stop the flow of fluid.

[0097] While embodiments or aspects have been described in detail for purposes of illustration and description, it should be understood that such detail is for that purpose only and that the embodiments or aspects are not limited to the disclosed embodiments or aspects, but rather are intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates, to the extent possible, that one or more features of any embodiment or aspect may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment or aspect. Indeed, any of these features may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed herein. While each dependent claim listed below may depend directly on only one claim, the disclosure of possible embodiments includes each dependent claim in combination with all other claims in the claim set.

Claims

1. a sensor surrounding an outer surface of a connector of a medical device including a fluid flow path, the sensor being configured to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device, and the sensor being configured to detect removal of the other connector of the other medical device when the other connector is removed from the connector of the medical device, the sensor including a force sensor having a plurality of switches, each switch of the plurality of switches being configured to actuate in response to a physical force applied to at least one of the connector and the sensor; an indicator for displaying sensor information from the sensor, the sensor and indicator being integrated with the connector of the medical device; a sensor assembly including:

2. The sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of switches are positioned at different distances from a longitudinal axis of the connector of the medical device.

3. The sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of switches comprises a plurality of conductive circuits surrounding the connector of the medical device.

4. The sensor assembly of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of conductive circuits comprises a plurality of concentric rings.

5. The sensor assembly of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of switches comprises a flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material on the plurality of conductive circuits.

6. The sensor assembly of claim 5 , wherein the flexible layer of conductive or semi-conductive material comprises a force-sensing resistor or a carbon and / or graphite-infused polymer.

7. The sensor assembly of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of switches includes a water-impermeable coating surrounding the flexible layer and the plurality of conductive circuits.

8. The sensor assembly of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of switches comprises a layer of anisotropic elastic material on the flexible layer.

9. The sensor assembly of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of switches comprises a spring-loaded metal ring on the plurality of conductive circuits.

10. The sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises an optical sensor.

11. The sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises a needleless connector or a luer connector.

12. 2. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the detected dimensions include at least one of: (i) a distance from a longitudinal axis of the connector of the medical device to an outer edge of the end of the other connector of the other medical device; and (ii) a cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

13. 2. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the indicator includes a speaker and one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), and the indicator is configured to provide at least one of an audio indication via the speaker and a visual indication via the one or more LEDs associated with the dimension of the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

14. 10. The sensor assembly of claim 1, further comprising a wireless communication device configured to communicate, to a remote computing device, information associated with at least one of: (i) the dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device; and (ii) connection or disconnection of the medical device to or from the other medical device.

15. The sensor assembly of claim 1 , further comprising one or more processors programmed and / or configured to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension.

16. a sensor surrounding an outer surface of a connector of a medical device including a fluid flow path, the sensor configured to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device, and the sensor configured to detect removal when the other connector of the other medical device is removed from the connector of the medical device; an indicator for displaying sensor information from the sensor, the sensor and indicator being integrated with the connector of the medical device; one or more processors programmed and / or configured to determine a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension and provide an output associated with the detected dimension; The system wherein the sensor includes a force sensor having a plurality of switches, each switch of the plurality of switches configured to actuate in response to a physical force applied to at least one of the connector and the sensor.

17. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the plurality of switches are positioned at different distances from the longitudinal axis of the connector of the medical device, and activation of the switch of the plurality of switches that is furthest from the longitudinal axis of the connector of the medical device is associated with a dimension of the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

18. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the sensor includes an optical sensor and the detected dimensions include at least one of (i) a distance of an outer edge of the end of the other connector of the other medical device from a longitudinal axis of the connector of the medical device, and (ii) a cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

19. 17. The system of claim 16, further comprising a wireless communication device configured to communicate to the one or more processors information associated with at least one of: (i) the dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device; and (ii) connection or disconnection of the medical device to or from the other medical device.

20. The system of claim 16 , wherein the type of the other medical device comprises a syringe, a catheter, or an antiseptic cap.

21. detecting a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device using a sensor surrounding an outer surface of the connector of the medical device including the fluid flow path; determining, with at least one processor, a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimension; providing an output associated with the detected dimension using an indicator, the sensor and indicator being integrally formed with the connector of the medical device; detecting, using the sensor surrounding the connector of the medical device, that the other connector of the other medical device has been detached from the connector of the medical device; The method, wherein the sensor includes a force sensor having a plurality of switches, each switch of the plurality of switches configured to actuate in response to a physical force applied to at least one of the connector and the sensor.

22. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein detecting the dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device includes detecting at least one of (i) a distance of an outer edge of the end of the other connector of the other medical device from a longitudinal axis of the connector of the medical device, and (ii) a cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the other connector of the other medical device.

23. and communicating, using a wireless communication device, information associated with at least one of (i) the dimensions of the end of the other connector of the other medical device, and (ii) the connection or disconnection of the medical device to or from the other medical device, to a remote computing device.

22. The method of claim 21 further comprising:

24. and controlling, with at least one processor, fluid flow within a fluid flow path including the medical device and the other medical device based on the information.

24. The method of claim 23 further comprising:

25. When executed by at least one processor, the method causes the at least one processor to: controlling a sensor surrounding an outer surface of a connector of a medical device including a fluid flow path to detect a dimension of an end of another connector of another medical device when the other connector of the other medical device is connected to the connector of the medical device; determining a type of the other medical device based on the detected dimensions; and controlling an indicator to provide an output related to the detected dimension, wherein the sensor and the indicator are integrated with the connector of the medical device; controlling the sensor surrounding the connector of the medical device to detect when the other connector of the other medical device has been detached from the connector of the medical device; comprising program instructions to cause The sensor includes a force sensor having a plurality of switches, each switch of the plurality of switches configured to operate in response to a physical force applied to at least one of the connector and the sensor.

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