Patient Support Access System Dynamic Authorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patient support apparatuses face challenges in ensuring that only authorized users can access powered device functions, leading to potential unauthorized access due to password sharing or proximity to authorized caregivers.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an access system that includes an input system, user control system, and authorization module, which uses identification data and performance data to manage user access, prevent unauthorized access, and dynamically adjust permission levels based on user behavior and patient conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a security system with password or token authentication is implemented, then unauthorized access to powered device functions is prevented, but the system complexity and ease of operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors user proximity through sensors and dynamically adjusts access permissions based on real-time detection of authorized users nearby. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically grant or restrict access without requiring manual password entry, thereby maintaining high security while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The access control system automatically authenticates users based on their proximity to authorized caregivers and the patient support apparatus. The system self-manages the authentication process without requiring users to manually input passwords or present tokens, thus maintaining reliability while improving ease of operation
2Reliability
If password-based authentication is used, then access control is implemented, but unauthorized access can still occur through password sharing or observation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual password entry with automated sensor-based proximity detection. Sensors detect the presence of authorized users and automatically grant access permissions, eliminating the vulnerability of password sharing and observation while maintaining robust access control
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism between the user and the powered device functions. Instead of direct password authentication, the system uses proximity sensors and authorization modules as intermediaries to verify user credentials and grant access, thereby preventing unauthorized access through password compromise
3Adaptability or versatility
If different caregivers have different permission levels, then customized access control is achieved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring user authorization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures permission levels for different caregiver types before they interact with the patient support apparatus. Authorization modules store and recognize these pre-defined permission levels, allowing the system to automatically determine appropriate access rights without requiring complex real-time verification of user credentials
Data Source
AI summary
An access system for managing users engaged in providing care to patients. A patient support apparatus is provided and comprises a frame, a patient support surface configured to support the patient, and a powered device having a function. An input system is disposed in communication with the powered device and is configured to receive input data. A user control system is disposed in communication with the input system and comprises an authorization module. The authorization module is configured to access a permission level for a user dictating whether the user has permission to operate the powered device with the input system to perform the function. The authorization module is further configured to determine performance data relating to performance of the user in caring for the patient based on the input data, and to modify the permission level based on the performance data.