Medication Dispensing Receptacles With Unique Identification Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for preparing and distributing medication in pillboxes face challenges such as errors in identifying the correct pillbox for patients, complex distribution processes, and risks of misallocation due to lack of efficient tracking and identification systems, leading to potential safety and efficiency issues in medico-social establishments.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that utilize uniquely identified receptacles with embedded computer systems and shared databases for efficient preparation and distribution, allowing real-time tracking and verification of pillboxes through identification codes and secure packaging to minimize errors and streamline the distribution process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual identification and tracking of pillboxes is used, then the system is simple, but errors in identifying the correct pillbox for patients increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback loops where computer systems continuously track pillbox locations, verify patient-pillbox matching, and provide real-time alerts for potential errors. This automated feedback mechanism ensures high reliability in pillbox identification without requiring complex manual verification procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Unique identification codes serve as intermediaries between physical pillboxes and the computer tracking system. These codes enable automatic recognition and tracking, bridging the gap between physical medication containers and digital record-keeping without requiring direct human intervention in the identification process.
2Reliability
If centralized database with computer tracking is implemented, then error reduction is achieved, but system complexity and initial setup requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized database system serves multiple functions simultaneously: tracking pillbox locations, verifying patient assignments, recording distribution events, generating alerts, and providing audit trails. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated platform, managing complexity while enhancing safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically performs verification and tracking operations without requiring manual intervention. Computer systems self-monitor pillbox locations, self-verify patient-pillbox matching, and self-generate alerts, reducing the need for complex human oversight procedures while maintaining high safety standards.
3Manufacturing precision
If real-time tracking system is used, then distribution accuracy improves, but time and resources required for implementation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-assigns unique identification codes to pillboxes and pre-configures patient-pillbox relationships in the centralized database before distribution begins. This preliminary setup enables automatic tracking and verification from the outset, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual assignment procedures during actual distribution operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual tracking and verification procedures are replaced with automated computer-based systems that use electronic identification codes and database queries. This substitution eliminates time-consuming manual processes while maintaining or improving precision in medication allocation.
4Productivity
If automated verification system is implemented, then distribution speed increases, but initial investment and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated verification system operates autonomously, automatically verifying patient-pillbox matching and tracking distribution events without requiring manual verification steps. This self-service capability accelerates distribution speed while the centralized database manages system complexity through integrated, multi-functional architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to devices for preparing (10) and for distributing (40) medicines to a plurality of patients (32), said devices comprising respectively at least one preparation holder (16), a distribution holder (43) and receptacles (15) into which pillboxes (12) are inserted. The preparation and distribution holders are adapted to receive identical receptacles and the computing means of each distribution device access a database shared with the computing means of a preparation device. The invention extends to an assembly comprising at least one preparation device and at least one distribution device, as well as to a method for preparing and distributing medicines implemented with these devices.