Oximeter Sensor Memory Chip for Patient Data Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current pulse oximetry sensors lack a reliable method to store and manage patient-specific data, leading to inefficiencies in data tracking and patient identification across different hospital locations, which can result in errors and increased labor in record-keeping.
Innovation Solution
A memory chip integrated into the oximeter sensor or adapter circuit that allows for the storage of patient-related data, including patient ID and trending information, enabling enhanced data management and automatic identification, even when the patient is transferred between different monitoring devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a memory chip is integrated into the oximeter sensor to store patient data, then patient data management and tracking capabilities are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a memory chip directly into the oximeter sensor assembly, combining data storage functionality with the sensing components. This merging approach allows patient-specific data to be stored and retrieved from the sensor itself, eliminating the need for separate data management systems and reducing overall system complexity despite adding storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory chip in the sensor serves multiple functions: storing patient identification data, saving trending information, and enabling data retrieval across different hospital locations. This multi-functionality improves data management reliability while the integrated design minimizes the increase in device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If patient data is stored in the sensor memory, then data tracking accuracy across locations is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Patient-specific data is pre-stored in the memory chip during sensor manufacturing or initial setup. This preliminary action ensures that when the sensor is applied to a patient, the data is already captured and stored, eliminating the need for manual data entry at each location and improving identification accuracy while streamlining the manufacturing process.
3Loss of information
If a memory chip is added to the sensor, then data retrieval capability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a cost-effective memory chip solution that is integrated into the sensor assembly. By using affordable storage technology and combining it with the disposable or limited-life sensor, the system achieves reliable data retention without significantly increasing overall cost. The memory chip's capacity is optimized to store only essential patient-specific data, minimizing the quantity and cost of components required.
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
The memory chip facilitates the storage and retrieval of patient-specific data, ensuring accurate record-keeping and reducing manual errors by allowing patient data to be linked across different hospital locations, enhancing patient safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A memory chip integrated into the oximeter sensor or adapter circuit that allows for the storage of patient-related data
Implementation Method 2
photoelectrically senses the absorption of light in such tissue. The amount of light absorbed is then used to calculate the amount of blood constituent being measured
Implementation Method 3
an optical oximeter probe which uses a pair of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to direct light through blood-perfused tissue
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a memory chip for use in an oximeter sensor, or an associated adapter or connector circuit. The memory chip allows the storing of patient related data, such as patient trending data or a patient ID, to provide enhanced capabilities for the oximeter sensor. In addition to providing unique data to store in such a memory, the present invention include unique uses of the data stored in such a memory.