Intelligent Catheter Verification Module Prevents Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catheter identification methods using pin sequences are inefficient, requiring costly firmware updates and posing safety risks due to potential reuse and improper operation of catheters across different manufacturers and patients.
Innovation Solution
A microprocessor-based verification module in the base unit that reads a unique identifier from the catheter's memory, determining whether the catheter can be enabled for use and configuring it appropriately, preventing reuse and ensuring safe operation by storing operating information directly on the catheter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pin sequences are used to identify catheters, then catheter identification is achieved, but firmware updates are required when new catheters are introduced, increasing cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the operating information from the base unit firmware and relocates it to the catheter itself. Each catheter contains its own non-volatile memory storing operating information, eliminating the need for base unit firmware updates when new catheters are introduced. The base unit simply reads the catheter's stored information to identify and configure the catheter appropriately.
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter becomes self-identifying and self-configuring by containing its own operating information in non-volatile memory. The catheter actively provides its identification and operating parameters to the base unit through wireless communication, eliminating the need for manual firmware updates or base unit knowledge of specific catheter types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pin sequences are used for catheter identification, then catheter type can be identified, but catheter reuse across patients is enabled, increasing infection risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification of catheter usage status before allowing operation. The base unit reads the unique identifier from the catheter's memory and checks whether the catheter has already been used on a previous patient. If the catheter shows signs of prior use, the system prevents operation, thereby eliminating the risk of cross-patient reuse and associated infections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pin sequences are used, then catheter identification is possible, but manufacturers can duplicate sequences, causing unsafe operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses unique asymmetric identifiers embedded in each catheter's non-volatile memory, making sequence duplication impossible. Each catheter has a distinct identifier that cannot be replicated, ensuring that operating information is always associated with the correct catheter. This asymmetric identification approach eliminates the risk of manufacturers duplicating sequences and using incorrect operating parameters.
4Extent of automation
If operating information is stored in base unit firmware, then base unit can control catheter operation, but base unit must be upgraded for new catheters, increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts operating information from the base unit firmware and relocates it to the catheter's non-volatile memory. This extraction eliminates the need for expensive base unit firmware upgrades when new catheters are introduced. The base unit remains unchanged and simply reads the operating information from the catheter itself, making the system more cost-effective and easier to manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a microprocessor executable verification module in a base unit and a microprocessor readable identifier of an endovasoular device in a memory of the endovascular device. The microprocessor executable verification module, based on the identifier, at least one of configures the endovascular device for use and determines whether the endovascular device can be enabled for use.