Programmable Pill Dispensing Mechanism for Accurate Medication Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals, particularly the elderly, face challenges in correctly taking multiple pills at the right times and amounts, leading to potential health issues and increased medical interventions.
Innovation Solution
A programmable pill dispenser system that automatically dispenses the correct pills at the right time, includes a housing with user interface, pill handling assemblies, and a motor-driven mechanism to move pills to a delivery position, with optional alerts and notifications for users and caregivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual pill taking is used, then device complexity is low, but medication accuracy and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pill dispenser system is divided into multiple independent modules: storage compartment, motor-driven dispensing mechanism, user interface, and notification system. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the complex system to be managed through modular components that can be independently designed, manufactured, and maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically identifies, selects, and dispenses the correct pills according to pre-programmed schedules without requiring manual intervention for each dosage. The motor-driven mechanism autonomously transports pills from storage to dispensing location, and the system provides self-monitoring through sensors and notifications to ensure proper medication administration.
2Measurement precision
If automated pill dispensing is implemented, then medication timing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows users to pre-program medication schedules, dosages, and timing requirements in advance. The microprocessor stores these parameters and automatically executes the dispensing sequence at the predetermined times, ensuring precise timing without requiring complex real-time decision-making mechanisms during actual pill delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical operations with an electronically controlled motor-driven mechanism. The motor, controlled by the microprocessor, precisely positions and dispenses pills according to programmed schedules, replacing imprecise manual timing with electronically controlled precision while keeping the mechanical structure relatively simple through standardized components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pill types are stored separately, then medication variety is improved, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment is designed as a universal container that can accommodate multiple types of pills, capsules, and other oral medications through standardized storage slots and compartments. The motor-driven dispensing mechanism is equally versatile, capable of handling different pill formats and delivering them through the same dispensing aperture, eliminating the need for separate dedicated storage and dispensing systems for each medication type.
Data Source
AI summary
Pill dispenser devices, systems and methods are shown and/or described herein. Include are a method, device or system for pill delivery including disposing a pill at a known location; contacting the pill with a pick-up member; and, moving the pill from the known location by movement of the pick-up member.