Portable Sensor Device Automatic Data Transmission for Patient Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Clinical staff face inefficiencies and increased error probability due to the need for frequent data entry into patient monitors for sensor devices, which diverts attention from patient care and can lead to incorrect diagnostic results, especially when patients move through multiple clinical stages.

Innovation Solution

A wearable sensor device that stores patient data and transmits it to associated patient monitors, reducing the need for repeated data entry and enabling simultaneous operation of multiple monitors with a single pressure line, using digital or analog signals and incorporating identification signals for correct signal processing and alarm functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If data entry is required for each patient monitor usage, then data accuracy can be ensured, but clinical staff time and attention are consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata accuracyVSAvoiddata entry time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor device automatically transmits its own identification data and stored patient data to the patient monitor without requiring manual data entry by clinical staff. The device serves itself by autonomously providing the necessary information for accurate patient identification and monitoring setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Patient data and identification information are pre-stored in the sensor device before patient connection. When the sensor device is connected to the patient monitor, the data is automatically transmitted, eliminating the need for repeated data entry during each monitoring session or patient transfer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If manual data entry is used, then data can be entered into the system, but the probability of errors increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata input simplicityVSAvoiderror probability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor device automatically transmits its own identification data and stored patient data to the patient monitor without requiring manual data entry by clinical staff. The device serves itself by autonomously providing the necessary information for accurate patient identification and monitoring setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of data entry is replaced by an automated electronic data transmission system. The sensor device electronically transmits identification and patient data to the monitor, eliminating the manual typing or input process that is prone to errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If two separate pressure lines are used for simultaneous monitor operation, then both monitors can be operated, but system complexity and patient connections increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous monitor operationVSAvoidpressure line complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor device is designed with universal communication capabilities that enable it to interface with multiple different types of patient monitors simultaneously. The device can provide pressure measurement data and patient identification data to multiple monitors through a single pressure line connection, making the sensor device multi-functional in terms of monitor compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single pressure line connection. Instead of requiring separate pressure lines for different monitor functions, the single pressure line carries both pressure measurement signals and patient identification data to multiple monitors, merging what would traditionally require separate physical connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2380491B1Portable sensor device and patient monitor
Publication Date: 2020.06.10 PULSION MEDICAL SYSTEMS AG
  • EP2380491B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2380491B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The device (1a) has a measuring point interface (6a) for attaching an electronic pressure sensor (13a) to a measuring point connection unit to form a measuring connection between the sensor and a measuring point (4a). A patient monitor interface (14a) attaches the sensor to a patient monitor connection unit to form a signal connection between the sensor and a patient monitor (15). A sensor housing (12a) accommodates the sensor and the interfaces. The monitor interface has a channel for receiving a data signal from the monitor, where the signal influences an electronic additional component. An independent claim is also included for a patient monitor comprising a sensor interface for attaching a patient monitor connecting unit to produce an analog signal connection between a portable sensor device and the patient monitor.