Biometric Patient ID and Automated Sample Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing process for identifying patients and associating biological samples in healthcare facilities is prone to errors due to manual handling, leading to potential mismatches between patients and their samples, resulting in inefficiencies and delays.
Innovation Solution
A biometric identification system using a smart card with a microprocessor and a semi-automatic labelling unit equipped with sensors for test tubes, ensuring accurate patient identification and automated label generation based on biometric data and database verification, minimizing human error and ensuring correct sample association.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual patient identification and sample labeling is used, then the process is simple and low-cost, but the reliability of patient-sample association deteriorates due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical identification processes with an automated optical recognition system. The barcode scanner and automated label affixing device eliminate human error in patient-sample association, while the microprocessor-based control system manages the complexity of coordinating multiple operational steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-verification through automated barcode scanning and validation. The microprocessor automatically verifies patient identity against database records and confirms sample association, reducing reliance on manual verification and improving reliability.
2Productivity
If manual sample labeling is used, then the equipment required is minimal, but the speed of the sampling process deteriorates due to operator requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual labeling operations with an automated label affixing device controlled by a microprocessor. The system automatically positions and applies labels to containers based on barcode identification, significantly increasing sampling speed while managing equipment complexity through integrated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning labels and pre- verifying patient information through barcode scanning before the actual sampling occurs. This preparation eliminates delays during the sampling process and improves overall productivity.
3Loss of time
If manual verification of patient identity is used, then the system is simple to operate, but the loss of time increases due to verification delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual verification with automated optical barcode scanning and electronic database verification. The microprocessor-based system instantly compares scanned barcodes with database records, eliminating time-consuming manual checks while managing complexity through automated control logic.
4Loss of information
If paper documents are used for patient information, then the system is simple and flexible, but the loss of information increases due to potential loss or switching of summary sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical paper documents with electronic digital copies stored in a database. Patient information is captured electronically through barcode scanning and microprocessor verification, creating immutable digital records that eliminate the risk of paper loss or switching while managing information through structured database storage.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus is described for identifying the patient and marking the laboratory test tubes associated with said patient during the sampling of biological material to be analysed, comprising a high-security portable hardware device (1) for processing and storing the patient's data, a device (2) for reading said portable hardware device and for the biometric identification of the patient, a personal computer (4) interacting with an operator and connected to a computer network for exchanging data by means of an application software with a remote means (3) for storing data. Said apparatus also includes a computerised test tube labelling unit (5) comprising a printer (8) for printing bar codes on labels (7) able to receive print commands from said personal computer (4) following a comparison between expected and detected test tubes housed in a positioning and identification device (9) supported by said labelling unit (5).