NFC Infusion Pump Interface for Accessible Data Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infusion pump systems face challenges in simplifying user interactions and enhancing safety and efficacy due to complex user interfaces, which can be difficult for users to operate, especially those who are mentally or physically impaired.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating Near Field Communication (NFC) technology into infusion pump systems to enable simplified data communication through NFC tags, allowing users to input commands and data via proximity rather than manual button inputs, and using accelerometers to activate NFC communications upon specific movements, thereby streamlining the operation of the pump.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual button inputs are used for data entry, then the system can receive user commands, but the user interface becomes complex and difficult to operate, especially for mentally or physically impaired users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual button inputs (mechanical interaction) with NFC technology that uses electromagnetic fields for wireless communication. Users simply tap their NFC-enabled device against the pump, eliminating the need to navigate complex button interfaces while maintaining reliable data input capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces NFC technology as an intermediary between the user and the infusion pump system. This intermediary enables seamless data transfer through proximity-based communication, simplifying the interaction process while maintaining system functionality and reducing the perceived complexity of the user interface
2Productivity
If traditional user interfaces are used, then the system can communicate with users, but data entry timeliness and completeness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-programming NFC tags with dosing information and patient data before the actual infusion process. This allows data to be automatically transferred and processed in advance, eliminating time-consuming manual entry during critical moments and improving both productivity and timeliness
3Adaptability or versatility
If NFC technology is incorporated, then data communication is simplified and user interaction is enhanced, but the system requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the NFC interface to handle multiple functions through a single technology platform. The same NFC tag can store patient information, dosing parameters, and treatment protocols, allowing one component to serve multiple purposes and reducing the need for separate input mechanisms for different data types
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 user interaction by reducing the complexity of inputting data, improving timeliness and completeness of data entry, and making the system more accessible for users with disabilities, while maintaining portability and concealability.
Implementation Method 1
a near field communication (NFC) circuit electrically connected with the control circuitry to communicate infusion pump task data to the control circuitry. The NFC circuit can be configured to wirelessly receive the infusion pump task data from a NFC communicator device when the NFC circuit and NFC communicator device are positioned within a NFC proximity range
Implementation Method 2
the infusion pump system may also include at least one accelerometer electrically connected to the control circuitry, wherein the accelerometer can be configured to detect acceleration movement of the portable pump housing and to communicate the detected movement to the control circuitry
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of an infusion pump system may be configured to wirelessly communicate with other devices using near field communication (NFC). In particular embodiments, by incorporating near field communication capabilities into the infusion pump system, user communications with the infusion pump system can be enhanced and simplified.