Electronic Label Timer for Medication Adherence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals face challenges in tracking and remembering the frequency and dosage of medication or activity schedules, especially when memory is compromised or when activities need to be performed at regular intervals, leading to potential misuse or inefficacy.
Innovation Solution
An electronic label with a substrate, electronic circuit, switch, processor, and indicator that can be manually actuated to remind users when a predetermined time has elapsed for consuming medication or performing activities, using configuration information downloaded via data port or RFID for tracking and alerting purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual tracking methods are used for medication or activity schedules, then device complexity is minimized, but reliability of adherence deteriorates due to memory limitations and human error
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic label automatically tracks time elapsed and provides reminders without requiring active user management. The system self-monitors the timing of medication consumption or activity completion and autonomously generates alerts, freeing the user from manual tracking while ensuring reliable adherence through automated monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual human memory and tracking mechanisms with an electronic timing system. The mechanical/cognitive process of remembering and tracking is substituted by an electronic circuit that automatically measures time intervals and triggers indicators, significantly improving reliability while keeping the device simple enough to be attached to medication containers or activity equipment
2Productivity
If frequent reminders are provided to improve adherence, then productivity of schedule completion is improved, but loss of time for checking and interacting with the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides reminders at periodic intervals based on predetermined time schedules rather than requiring continuous user monitoring. The electronic label automatically activates the indicator at appropriate times, allowing users to complete activities according to schedule without needing to constantly check or interact with the system, thus improving productivity while minimizing time loss
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic label includes a first substrate, a second substrate, and an electronic circuit disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. A switch and an indicator are coupled to the electronic circuit. The indicator is responsive to actuation of the switch to indicate usage of a product.