Waterproof Inhaler Usage Counter with Motion Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inhaler devices lack a reliable and cost-effective method to track the number of doses remaining in a canister, as previous solutions often require manual resetting, are complex to manufacture, or fail to retain the count on the canister when detached from the housing, leading to user uncertainty and potential emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof inhaler usage indicator with a replaceable battery is integrated directly onto the canister, featuring a motion sensor that activates upon shaking to display the remaining drug amount using visual indicators like LEDs or LCDs, ensuring the count is retained with the canister and isolated from external influences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a counting device is mounted on the casing to record canister actuations, then the number of doses dispensed can be tracked, but the count is lost when the canister is removed from the inhaler
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the inhaler system into two independent parts: the canister with its own counter assembly, and the inhaler casing. The counter assembly is attached to the canister rather than the casing, allowing it to retain dose count information independently when the canister is removed. This segmentation ensures the counter continues to function and retain data even when detached from the inhaler casing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a portable copy of the counting function by placing the counter assembly on the canister itself rather than keeping it fixed in the inhaler casing. This copying of the counting capability to the removable canister ensures that dose information travels with the canister, preventing data loss during removal and reattachment cycles.
2Ease of manufacture
If a manual reset mechanism is used for the counter, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but the user must manually reset the counter after cleaning the canister
Solution Approach 1:
The counter assembly is designed to be self-contained and self-retaining on the canister. It automatically maintains its position and continues counting without requiring user intervention for resetting or reattachment. The motion sensor and counter operate autonomously, detecting canister actuations and updating the display without user action, while the secure attachment mechanism ensures it remains in place during cleaning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter assembly is pre-attached to the canister during manufacturing, establishing a permanent association between the counting function and the drug container. This preliminary attachment ensures the counter travels with the canister throughout its entire lifecycle, eliminating the need for users to manually reset or reattach it during normal use and cleaning operations.
3Reliability
If the counter assembly is permanently attached to the canister, then the count is retained when detached from the inhaler, but the assembly must be waterproof to protect electronics
Solution Approach 1:
The counter assembly incorporates a waterproof housing with sealed compartments that protect the electronic components from water ingress. The design uses waterproof membranes and sealed joints to create a barrier against moisture while maintaining the compact form factor needed for attachment to the canister. This flexible waterproofing approach allows the electronics to remain protected even when the assembly is exposed to cleaning environments.
4Use of energy by moving object
If a motion sensor is used to activate the display, then battery life is extended, but the sensor must detect subtle shaking movements
Solution Approach 1:
The motion sensor is configured to activate the display in periodic intervals based on detected shaking patterns rather than continuous operation. The sensor monitors for specific vibration signatures that indicate the user intends to view the dose count, activating the display only during these periodic detection events. This periodic activation strategy significantly reduces overall power consumption compared to continuous display operation while remaining responsive to user needs.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is for a waterproof Inhaler Usage Indicator with or without a replaceable battery (6), to provide a count of the amount of drug remaining inside the canister (4) with the counter (1) still attached to the canister (4). It is not limited to inhalers alone, but any type of canister (4) that dispenses through a nozzle (24) when placed inside an housing (2) in order to count the number of displacements between the canister (4) and housing (2). The status of the drug can be checked at any time by a quick movement of the inhaler in any axis to allow the motion sensor (40, 41) to initiate the display of the amount of remaining drug uses. The counter assembly (1) is attached to the top of the canister (4) and uses the displacement between the canister (4) and housing (2) to count the number of uses.