Patient Support Apparatus Network Connection and Location Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patient support apparatuses, such as hospital beds, can be difficult to track and locate due to movement or becoming inoperative, especially when disconnected from a communication network.
Innovation Solution
Equipping patient support apparatuses with electronic devices that use existing infrastructure to connect to a communication network, allowing for automatic connection and location tracking even when disconnected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If patient support apparatuses are equipped with electronic devices for connecting to a communication network, then the ability to track and locate the apparatuses is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a communication interface for network connectivity and a location tracking component. The device can operate in different modes (connected and disconnected) to provide both communication and location services, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless node as an intermediary component that facilitates communication between the patient support apparatus and the communication network. This wireless node handles the complexity of network protocols and communication, allowing the main apparatus to remain simpler while still achieving reliable connectivity and tracking.
2Ease of manufacture
If patient support apparatuses use existing infrastructure for connection, then the cost is reduced, but the ease of operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device is pre-configured with communication interfaces and settings that enable automatic connection to the communication network. The device performs preliminary setup actions, such as establishing network protocols and authentication parameters, so that when deployed, it can connect automatically without requiring manual configuration or complex setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the patient support apparatus automatically connects to the communication network and begins tracking without requiring intervention from healthcare professionals. The device autonomously manages its own connectivity status and location reporting, simplifying operation for users.
3Productivity
If automatic connection to communication network is implemented, then productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device continuously monitors its connection status to the communication network and adjusts its operation accordingly. When connected, it automatically begins location tracking and reporting. When disconnected, it maintains location capabilities using alternative methods. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adaptation to network conditions without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its communication strategy based on connection status. The electronic device can switch between different operating modes (connected mode for full network communication, disconnected mode for autonomous tracking) allowing the system to maintain high productivity while managing complexity through adaptive behavior rather than complex predetermined logic for all scenarios.
4Reliability
If location tracking is maintained when disconnected from network, then reliability is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device employs periodic location updates rather than continuous monitoring. It tracks location at predetermined time intervals or when specific events occur (such as movement detection), then pauses monitoring to conserve energy. This periodic operation maintains sufficient reliability for tracking purposes while dramatically reducing energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the monitoring parameter intensity based on connection status and energy constraints. When disconnected from the network, the device switches to a lower-intensity tracking mode that uses minimal energy while maintaining adequate location awareness. The monitoring frequency and precision are adjusted dynamically to balance reliability requirements with energy conservation.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for connecting a patient support apparatus to a hospital network and locating the patient support apparatus are provided. A patient support apparatus is associated with a communication device having a first and second communication interface for transmitting and/or receiving a first and second type of wireless signal. The patient support apparatus is electrically connected to a node serving as a power output and a wireless communication system connected to the hospital network. In response to the electrical connection, the communication device activates the first communication interface to form a wireless link with the node. In response to the patient support apparatus being electrically disconnected from the node, the communication device activates the second communication interface. The patient support apparatus is located by the node based on the second type of wireless signal.