Dual-Frequency Transponder Tracking for Foreign Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for tracking medical or clinical procedure items in a wireless medical environment are inefficient and prone to errors, particularly in detecting objects retained within a patient's body, and require costly, accurate, and easy-to-use systems to prevent foreign object retention during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of dual frequency ranges for interrogation signals to differentiate between RFID transponders and dumb transponders, with unique identifiers encoded for RFID transponders and presence/absence detection for dumb transponders, providing a comprehensive tracking system that includes manual counts and automated itemization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If RFID wireless transponders are used to track items, then unique identifying information can be detected, but the detection range and ability to detect objects within bodily tissue is reduced due to power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the tracking function into two distinct transponder types: RFID transponders for identification tracking and dumb transponders for presence detection. This segmentation allows each type to be optimized for its specific function without compromise
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves multi-functionality by deploying both RFID and dumb transponder types within the same tracking infrastructure, enabling simultaneous identification and presence detection capabilities across different operational scenarios
2Reliability
If dumb wireless transponders are used for tracking, then detection range and ability to detect objects within bodily tissue is improved, but unique identifying information cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the tracking function into two distinct transponder types: RFID transponders for identification tracking and dumb transponders for presence detection. This segmentation allows each type to be optimized for its specific function without compromise
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dumb transponders as intermediaries for presence detection in scenarios where identification is not required, such as detecting foreign objects within bodily tissue, while RFID transponders handle identification tasks
3Device complexity
If manual counting procedures are used to track items, then system complexity is reduced, but accuracy and efficiency are significantly compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical counting procedures with automated wireless detection systems that use electromagnetic fields to detect and track transponders, eliminating human error and improving accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system performs self-service by automatically detecting, identifying, and tracking items without requiring manual intervention, thereby improving both accuracy and efficiency
4Measurement precision
If automated wireless detection systems are implemented, then tracking accuracy and efficiency are improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the automated tracking function into two distinct transponder types with specialized roles, allowing the complex automated system to be divided into manageable functional components that can be independently optimized and maintained
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the accuracy and efficiency of tracking items, reduces the risk of foreign object retention, and ensures that all items are accounted for before and after procedures, improving patient safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
causing at least one antenna to emit at least one interrogation signal in a first frequency range
Implementation Method 2
detecting any response signals to the at least one interrogation signal in the first frequency range, the response signals returned from one or more wireless communications identification transponders
Data Source
AI summary
Medical procedure related objects (e.g., instruments, supplies) tagged with transponders (e.g., RFID transponders, dumb transponders) are accounted for in a medical or clinical environment via an accounting system using a number of antennas and interrogators/readers. A first set of antennas and RFID interrogator(s) interrogate portions of the environment for RFID tagged objects, for example proximate a start and an end of a procedure. Shielded packaging and/or shielded receptacles shield tagged objects, preventing interrogation except for those objects in unshielded portions of the environment. A shielded receptacle may include an antenna to interrogate the contents thereof in a relatively noise-free environment. A data store may maintain information including a current status or count of each instrument or supply, for instance as checked in or checked out. A handheld antenna and/or second set of antennas interrogates a body of a patient for retained instruments or supplies tagged with dumb transponders.