Automated Medicine Label Printer with Barcode Scanner

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional labeling methods for medicine containers are prone to human error due to illegible handwriting and variability in label interpretation among medical professionals, which can lead to reliability issues during operations.

Innovation Solution

A printing system that uses a scanner to read barcodes on medicine bottles and preprinted sheets, along with a display for inputting information, to rapidly print multiple labels with standardized data, reducing human error and increasing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If handwriting is used for labeling medicine containers, then the labeling process can be performed quickly, but the labels become difficult to read or illegible due to human error and variability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabeling speedVSAvoidlabel legibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical handwriting process with an automated printing system that uses barcode scanning and computer-controlled printing. The scanner reads barcode information, the processor generates standardized label content, and the printer produces consistent, legible labels, eliminating human handwriting variability while maintaining quick labeling speeds.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates standardized copies of label information through barcode scanning and digital processing. Instead of handwritten copies that vary between individuals, the system generates identical, standardized label copies for each medicine container, ensuring consistency and reliability in label content.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If different medical professionals prepare labels manually, then flexibility in label content can be achieved, but interpretation variability and human error increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel content flexibilityVSAvoidlabel interpretation consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates barcode scanning that provides feedback about the medicine container details. The system uses this feedback information to automatically generate accurate label content, ensuring that all medical professionals use the same standardized interpretation of the label based on the scanned barcode data rather than individual judgment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of label creation from manual handwriting to automated digital printing. The system controls parameters such as font, layout, and content based on barcode data, ensuring consistent label interpretation across all professionals while maintaining the ability to adapt to different medicine types through barcode recognition.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If conventional manual labeling is used, then simple equipment is required, but time consumption and labor requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveequipment simplicityVSAvoidlabeling time

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses pre-programmed printing systems and pre-scanned barcode information to perform labeling actions in advance. The system is pre-configured with printing capabilities and barcode recognition, allowing rapid label generation without manual preparation, thus reducing labeling time while introducing moderate equipment complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If standardized printing is implemented, then label accuracy and consistency improve, but equipment complexity and initial setup requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel accuracyVSAvoidprinting system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a barcode scanner and digital processor as intermediary components between the medicine container and the printing system. These intermediaries automatically extract information and prepare label content, reducing the complexity burden on the main printing system while ensuring high label accuracy and consistency through standardized digital processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10528703B1Medical labeling system and method of use

Publication Date: 2020.01.07 BAEK PETER S

AI summary

A labeling system for creating labels for medicine containers. The system includes a label printer having an interior area configured to carry a plurality of printing sheets therein; a scanner in data communication with the label printer, the scanner having a reader to scan a drug administer barcode and a drug barcode; and a label sheet printed by the label printer, the label sheet having a plurality of labels adhesively bonded thereto, the label printer being configured to print onto the plurality of labels data information scanned from the administrator barcode and the drug barcode. The label sheet includes a first section for a drug name; a second section for a dosage; a third section for a time and a date; and a fourth section for information related to the drug administer.