Patient Support Visual Indicators for Wireless Service Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hospital settings, it is challenging to identify and verify specific patient support apparatuses among multiple devices within a detection range for maintenance or service updates, as existing systems lack effective visual indicators to distinguish connected devices from others.
Innovation Solution
A patient support apparatus equipped with a visual indicator system that activates distinct indications via a wireless communication interface, allowing the controller to identify when a service unit is within range and connected, using a first indication for detection and a second for confirmation of remote access, facilitating secure and accurate device identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple patient support apparatuses are deployed in a hospital setting, then service coverage and patient care capacity are improved, but device identification and verification become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual indicators that change color or illumination state to indicate different connection statuses. The visual indicator displays a first indication when a service unit is detected within range, and a second indication when remote access is enabled, allowing service personnel to easily identify the correct apparatus among multiple devices without confusion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a visual indicator as an intermediary communication element between the controller and service personnel. This intermediary translates the complex wireless connection status into simple, observable visual signals, making device identification and verification straightforward even when multiple apparatuses are present
2Productivity
If wireless communication interfaces are used for remote service access, then service efficiency and response time are improved, but security risks and connection verification complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the visual indicator provides real-time status information about the wireless connection. The indicator shows when a service unit is detected, when authentication is successful, and when remote access is enabled, allowing service personnel to verify connections before proceeding with service tasks, thus maintaining security while improving efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary authentication and connection verification actions before enabling remote access. The controller authenticates the service unit and establishes a secure connection before activating the visual indicator's second indication, ensuring that only verified connections can access the apparatus, thereby maintaining reliability while enabling efficient wireless service
Data Source
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AI summary
A patient support apparatus includes a visual indicator in connection with a portion of the patient support apparatus. The visual indicator is configured to output a first indication and a second indication. The support apparatus also includes a communication circuit configured to communicate via a wireless communication interface and a controller configured to communicate with a service unit via the wireless communication interface. The controller is configured to activate the first indication in response to the service unit detected within a detection range, and in response to enabling a remote access to the service unit, the controller is configured to activate the second indicator. The activation of the second indicator identifies the controller of the patient support apparatus in communication with the service unit via the wireless communication interface.