NFC Patch System for Secure Medical Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical monitoring systems for patients are cumbersome, causing discomfort and limiting mobility due to the need for multiple devices, cords, and batteries, which also pose challenges in secure data transmission and battery life.
Innovation Solution
The development of a near-field communication (NFC) patch system that uses NFC capabilities to establish a secure wireless communication channel between a patch on the patient and a master device, allowing for the transmission of physiological data without the need for physical connections or frequent battery replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple medical devices and connections are used for monitoring, then data collection capability is improved, but patient mobility and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple medical monitoring devices into a single integrated wireless medical system. The master device consolidates data collection from multiple physiological parameters (ECG, blood pressure, temperature, etc.) through a unified interface, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices with cords and batteries. This merging approach maintains comprehensive monitoring capability while significantly improving patient mobility by removing physical constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The master device is designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle various physiological monitoring tasks through a single device. It can simultaneously collect and process multiple types of medical data (electrical signals, pressure readings, temperature measurements) and provide diverse functions including data display, storage, and wireless transmission, replacing the need for specialized single-function devices.
2Ease of operation
If wireless battery-operated devices are used, then patient mobility is improved, but device security and operating time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an NFC-based pairing mechanism as an intermediary security layer between the master device and slave devices. During the pairing process, NFC technology enables secure key exchange and authentication, establishing encrypted communication channels. This intermediary security mechanism ensures that wireless data transmission remains protected while maintaining the mobility benefits of battery-operated wireless devices.
3Ease of operation
If battery-operated wireless devices are used, then patient mobility is improved, but configuration time and battery life deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary pairing and authentication procedures using NFC technology during the initial device setup. The master device and slave devices establish secure connections and exchange necessary configuration data through NFC before wireless operation begins. This preliminary action through NFC pairing streamlines the configuration process, reducing setup time while enabling subsequent wireless operation that improves patient mobility.
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 enhances patient mobility and comfort by eliminating the need for cumbersome connections, improves data security through secure communication channels, and extends the operational time of the devices due to efficient power management.
Implementation Method 1
Reception of the NFC signal induces a current in the NFC module that can cause a switch to complete one or more circuits
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed systems and methods include electronic devices attached to a patient or object that transmit data to other devices over a secure communication channel. The devices can track and/or monitor object(s) and/or patient(s) and transmit the tracked and/or monitored data to other electronic devices. Such data can include monitored patient physiological parameter(s) received and/or sensed by the device, for example. A master of the two devices transmits a communication signal to another device that, in response, initiates a secure wireless communication channel, causes one or more modules on the device to be powered, and, when powered, transmits the tracked and/or sensed physiological data over the secure wireless communication channel to the master device. Some example master devices transmit the communication signal with an instruction to the device to activate an onboard power source that later may be disconnected after the tracked and/or physiological data is transmitted.