Automatic Medical Image Distribution via Scannable Identifier Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging systems in medical facilities, such as dental facilities, lack an efficient method for distributing scanned images from exposed media like radiographic films and photostimulable phosphor plates across multiple operatories, requiring manual handling and processing.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where scannable image media are encoded with standard identifiers using RFID, optical, or magnetic encoding, allowing the scanning apparatus to automatically associate and transmit digital images to specific operatories or user computers based on these identifiers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling and distribution of scanned images is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate due to time-consuming manual processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automatic image distribution where the scanning apparatus autonomously reads identifiers from scannable media, determines the destination operatory, and transmits images without manual intervention. This eliminates the need for personnel to manually handle and distribute scanned images, significantly improving productivity while the automation handles the complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling of images with an automated electronic distribution system. The scanning apparatus uses electronic identification reading and digital transmission to substitute the manual physical process of carrying disks or media between operatories, thereby improving efficiency while managing system complexity through automation.
2Loss of time
If manual handling of scanned images is used, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases due to manual transport and distribution processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system ensures continuous useful action by automatically transmitting images as soon as scanning is complete, without interruption for manual handling. The scanning apparatus continuously reads identifiers and distributes images in real-time, eliminating idle time and ensuring the workflow proceeds without breaks, thereby reducing time loss while automation manages the complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual transport with instant electronic transmission. The automated system immediately distributes scanned images to the correct operatory through digital networks, eliminating the time required for physical transport and manual intervention, while the automation infrastructure handles the system complexity.
3Reliability
If manual distribution methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to potential human errors in image routing
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback through automatic identification reading where the scanning apparatus reads the identifier from the scannable media, uses this information to determine the correct destination operatory, and transmits the image accordingly. This closed-loop process eliminates human error in routing decisions, improving reliability while the automated feedback mechanism manages the system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning apparatus performs self-service by autonomously reading identifiers, determining destinations, and routing images without human intervention. This eliminates human error in image routing, significantly improving reliability, while the automation handles the complexity of the routing logic and system coordination.
4Productivity
If automated distribution with identifier encoding is implemented, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases due to encoding and reading mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning apparatus is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an image scanner and an identifier reader. By integrating these functions into a single device, the system improves productivity through automated distribution while minimizing the increase in device complexity through functional consolidation rather than adding separate dedicated components.
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
This solution enables seamless and automatic distribution of digital images within a medical facility, enhancing operational efficiency by eliminating the need for manual handling and ensuring images are displayed in the correct operatory, thereby improving workflow and reducing errors.
Implementation Method 1
The encoding may be accomplished via one of radio frequency identification (RFID) (e.g., an RFID tag)
Implementation Method 2
optical encoding (e.g., holes within the media)
Implementation Method 3
magnetic encoding (e.g., a magnetic strip)
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods for facilitating the automatic distribution of acquired images within a medical facility. Apparatus capable of displaying digital images within two or more operatories is provided. Apparatus capable of scanning scannable image media is also provided, to read an encoded identifier and a captured image from each of the scannable image media. The encoded identifier of any given scannable image medium is associated with one operatory of the medical facility. Apparatus capable of transmitting a read image to the apparatus capable of displaying digital images within a particular operatory in dependence on the read associated identifier is further provided.