Medical Device Pairing via Camera-Based Identifier Relay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for pairing medical devices and control devices require user intervention, are inconvenient, and fail in environments with varied layouts, and rely on line-of-sight communication which can be obstructed.
Innovation Solution
A system using a control device with dual communication channels (IR and RF) and a receiver device with a camera to detect visual identifiers, enabling automatic pairing and disassociation based on identifier matching and signal strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If automated pairing methods using line-of-sight communication (e.g., infrared) are used, then pairing can occur without user intervention, but reliable communication is prevented in environments with varied layouts and obstructed line-of-sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a receiver device as an intermediary component that captures identifiers from the medical device and transmits them wirelessly to the control device. This mediator enables automated pairing without requiring direct line-of-sight between the control device and medical device, resolving the contradiction by allowing automated operation while maintaining reliability in varied physical layouts.
Solution Approach 2:
The pairing system is segmented into three separate components: the medical device with identifier, the receiver device that captures and relays the identifier, and the control device that uses the identifier for pairing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently without requiring direct communication between all parties, enabling automated pairing while overcoming line-of-sight limitations.
2Ease of operation
If manual device selection from a list is required, then user control and accuracy are improved, but user convenience and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service pairing by automatically capturing the medical device identifier through the receiver device and initiating the pairing process without requiring user selection from a list. The control device automatically pairs with the medical device based on the received identifier, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining pairing accuracy through the use of unique identifiers.
3Extent of automation
If devices are placed in a discoverable state for pairing, then automated detection is enabled, but user convenience deteriorates due to the need to remember and perform specific actions
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver device is pre-positioned in the environment and continuously ready to capture identifiers from medical devices. When a medical device enters the area, the receiver automatically captures its identifier and initiates the pairing process with the control device, eliminating the need for users to manually place devices in discoverable states or remember pairing procedures.
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
Ensures reliable, automatic pairing and control of medical devices without user intervention, even in environments with obstructed line-of-sight, by using dual communication channels and visual detection.
Implementation Method 1
a camera configured to visually detect a visual identifier. The visual identifier being a second identifier located in a line of sight between the receiver and a medical device
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods include a control device that matches a first identifier received over its first communication channel and associated with a medical device with a second identifier received over its second communication channel as well as a receiver device that receives the second identifier from the medical device via a third communication channel from the medical device and transmits the second identifier to the control device via the second communication channel. The control device, upon determining that the first identifier received over the first communication channel, matches the second identifier received over the second communication channel and automatically pairs with the medical device associated with the matching identifier over the second communication channel.