Networked Interface Appliance for Dynamic Medical Device Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical workflow efficiency is hindered by the difficulty in integrating medical devices and documentation systems due to limited input/output capabilities of PCs, complex network configurations, and the need for static IP addressing, which can lead to networking errors and inefficiencies in asset management.
Innovation Solution
A networked interface appliance that uses beacon signals with unique identifiers to establish dynamic connections between medical devices and computers, allowing for automatic network configuration and proximity-based selection, and integrates with various interface technologies like USB, Bluetooth, and IEEE 802.15, while also providing asset tracking and data buffering capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If static IP addressing is used to connect medical devices to the network, then network configuration is simplified, but the system cannot adapt when devices or personnel move, requiring reconfiguration and causing workflow inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static IP addressing to dynamic connection establishment using beacon signals. Devices automatically discover and connect to each other based on real-time proximity and identity information, allowing the network topology to adapt dynamically as devices or personnel move throughout the healthcare facility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic connection establishment without requiring manual configuration or technical support. Devices autonomously discover each other through beacon signals, exchange identity information, and establish connections independently, eliminating the need for manual IP configuration and reconfiguration when devices move.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple medical devices are connected to a PC with limited I/O ports, then device integration is achieved, but the number of required physical connections increases, creating a jumble of wires and interconnections
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a network infrastructure as an intermediary between medical devices and PCs. Instead of direct point-to-point connections, devices communicate through the network using beacon signals and IP addresses, eliminating the need for multiple physical cables and reducing connection complexity while maintaining integration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical physical connections (cables and ports) with electronic wireless communication. Beacon signals and network protocols substitute for physical plugging and unplugging of cables, reducing the physical complexity of connecting multiple devices while maintaining the ability to integrate diverse medical equipment.
3Reliability
If manual selection of devices from a list is required to establish connections, then connection accuracy can be verified, but the time and energy spent in selecting the correct device slows down the workflow
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic device identification and connection based on beacon signals and exchanged identity information. Devices autonomously determine which devices to connect with without requiring manual selection from lists, maintaining connection accuracy through automated identity verification while eliminating the time-consuming manual selection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary device identification and connection establishment automatically before the user needs to access the devices. Beacon signals are continuously transmitted and monitored, so when a connection is needed, the devices are already identified and ready to connect, eliminating delays associated with manual device selection.
4Device complexity
If static IP addressing is used in a medical environment, then network configuration is simplified, but networking errors can occur that may be life threatening
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic feedback mechanisms where devices continuously exchange beacon signals and verify their identities and connections. This real-time feedback ensures that the correct devices are connected to the correct patients, preventing networking errors that could lead to misdiagnosis or patient safety issues while maintaining simplified configuration through automated verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A networked interface appliance for use in the medical arena that simplifies the connectivity of medical diagnostic devices to the portable computers in electronic medical record systems (EMR's). The appliance utilizes location support hardware and software to locate and map various tagged assets within the existing environment. The appliance automatically determines the proximity of nearby portable assets and computing devices, and creates network connection to each. Data obtained from a diagnostic device connected to the appliance is buffered and transmitted to portable computing devices connected to the appliance. Using specific IP addressing, support teams can connect to the appliance to diagnose and correct problems remotely using a local area network, wide area network or the Internet. A video port for remotely controlled video display and for local data acquisition is included. Location data from the appliance can be utilized in improving billing algorithms and workflow analysis. Asset management and location mapping of resources are also supported.