Autonomous IV Transport Device Error Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current manual process of handling and delivering intravenous (IV) fluid containers is prone to errors, such as incorrect labeling and mishandling, which can lead to patient safety risks and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A transport device equipped with a chassis, wheels, and a self-propulsion system, capable of autonomously moving IV products from one location to another, while also featuring communication links and information reading devices to ensure accurate delivery and patient information management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling and delivery of IV fluid containers is used, then labor flexibility is maintained, but error rate increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport device is self-propelled with autonomous navigation capabilities, allowing it to transport IV containers without human intervention. The device reads patient information automatically and navigates to the correct destination independently, eliminating manual handling errors while maintaining operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated robotic transport system. The device uses sensors, communication interfaces, and autonomous navigation to substitute human operators, thereby reducing errors related to manual labeling and handling while improving delivery speed and consistency
2Reliability
If automated transport device is implemented, then error rate decreases and efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport device is designed as a multi-functional platform that can handle multiple IV containers simultaneously, communicate with various hospital systems, and adapt to different delivery destinations. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single device, managing complexity through integration rather than proliferation of separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates communication interfaces and information reading devices that act as intermediaries between the transport system and hospital information systems. These intermediaries enable automated patient identification and destination routing without requiring complex direct integration between all system components, thereby managing system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A transport device configured to transport an IV product or medication from one location to another in automated fashion. The transport device may comprise a chassis with one or more ports for IV products. A drive mechanism is configured to move the transport device, and instructions for execution can be provided by a controller. Information may be provided to the controller about an IV product, such as its intended destination or use. The controller may also exchange information with a delivery location or device, such as an infusion pump, to verify that the IV product is delivered to the proper destination. The transport device may include a delivery mechanism for off-loading an IV product. The transport device may deliver IV products of various configurations, including configurations in which the product comprises a flexible bag and a container housing for supporting and protecting the fluid bag.