Nutritional Intake Measurement Device Using RFID and Load Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurately measuring the nutritional intake of food and drink is challenging, particularly for elderly and handicapped populations, as existing methods rely on estimation rather than precise measurement, leading to potential imbalances in nutrient consumption.
Innovation Solution
A measurement device with RFID tagged tableware and load sensors that measure the weight of containers before and after use, calculating nutritional intake by determining the weight difference and displaying the results on a user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If weight measurement is used to determine nutritional intake, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated device: the load sensor measures weight, the RFID reader identifies the container, and the controller processes data to calculate nutritional intake. This merging of functions into one unified system achieves precise measurement without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an RFID tag as an intermediary element attached to the container. This tag enables automatic identification and data transfer between the container and the measurement device, eliminating the need for manual input or complex tracking systems. The RFID intermediary simplifies the overall system while maintaining high measurement precision.
2Device complexity
If manual estimation is used for nutritional intake, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device operates autonomously by automatically detecting the container via RFID, measuring the weight change through the load sensor, and calculating the nutritional intake without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex user interaction while delivering precise measurement data, effectively resolving the contradiction between simplicity and accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If RFID tagging system is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification function into a separate RFID tag that is attached to the container, independent of the main measurement device. This separation allows the container to carry its own identification data, making the system easier to operate while the RFID reader in the measurement device handles the technical complexity of communication and data processing.
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
Provides accurate and precise nutritional intake data, enabling better monitoring and adjustment of nutrient consumption, ensuring a healthy lifestyle for individuals, especially in care settings.
Implementation Method 1
The intake cell has a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader and a load sensor. The RFID reader is supported by the housing to detect the RFID tag of the container positioned on the support surface.
Implementation Method 2
The load sensor is supported by the housing to measure weight associated with the container.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a device for measuring nutritional intake. The device includes a housing, an intake cell, and a controller. The housing has a support surface. The intake cell has a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader and a load sensor. The controller is configured to receive data from the RFID reader and the load sensor to associate a weight of a container with an RFID tag of the container. The RFID reader is supported by the housing to detect the RFID tag of the container positioned on the support surface. The load sensor is supported by the housing to measure the weight associated with the container.