On-Body Medical Device Activation System Using Timing Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical devices for infusing medical substances face challenges in distinguishing between intentional and inadvertent activation of controls, often relying on complex mechanical structures or precise button manipulations to prevent accidental activation.
Innovation Solution
A medical device employs a microprocessor to analyze the timing of activation signals from multiple user inputs, using a computer-implemented signal processing algorithm to differentiate between valid and inadvertent activation by evaluating the overlap of independent time traces initiated by activation buttons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex mechanical structures or precise button manipulations are used to prevent accidental activation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical interlocking structures with a microprocessor-based timing analysis system. The microprocessor evaluates the temporal relationships between multiple button press events to determine intentional activation, eliminating the need for complicated mechanical prevention mechanisms while maintaining high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of button manipulation from requiring precise spatial coordination (simultaneous or sequential pressing of specific button combinations) to requiring precise temporal coordination (pressing buttons within a specific time window). This parameter transformation simplifies the user interaction while preventing accidental activation through timing analysis.
2Ease of operation
If simple activation controls are used, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of inadvertent activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback by analyzing the timing patterns of button presses and using this information to determine whether activation is intentional. The microprocessor continuously monitors button states and uses timing relationships as feedback to distinguish between deliberate user actions and accidental touches, enabling simple controls to remain reliable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary timing analysis of button press events before triggering infusion. By evaluating the temporal relationships between button presses in advance, the system can confirm intentional activation before initiating medical substance delivery, preventing inadvertent infusion while maintaining simple, accessible controls.
3Reliability
If multiple buttons require precise manipulation, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the activation requirement from precise spatial manipulation (pressing specific combinations of buttons in a defined sequence) to precise temporal manipulation (pressing any buttons within a predetermined time window). This parameter change maintains reliability by requiring coordinated action while significantly improving ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical device for infusing medical substances has activation buttons accessible on the exterior of the device housing. Activation buttons and corresponding electrical switches within the housing are configured to prevent inadvertent activation of the buttons and therefore inadvertent operation of the switches to initiate a process such as medical substance delivery to the user. The device employs overlap of respective time traces initiated by activation of the activation buttons to determine whether activation is intended and valid. These time traces do not have to be initiated simultaneously or in any particular sequence. The activation buttons can be elastomeric overmolded buttons set within cutouts in the housing, and, when depressed, make physical contact with respective switches.