Re-usable sensor module configured to record a measured parameter or an associated event
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand hygiene product dispensers lack accurate monitoring and tracking capabilities, particularly for non-standard containers and those mounted on patient beds, leading to potential misuse and inefficiencies in hand hygiene practices.
Innovation Solution
A reusable sensor module that can be independently used with various dispensers, featuring an elastically deformable capsule with sensors and a processor to track filling levels and user interactions, providing visual and radio-based feedback, and capable of attaching to different types of dispensers and holders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the dispensing sensor is integrated into the main housing, then the fluid dispenser can collect data related to dispensing events, but the fluid dispenser cannot be used with different kinds of containers for hand hygiene products
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is separated from the dispenser housing into an independent, detachable unit. This segmentation allows the sensor module to be removed and reused with different container types, resolving the contradiction between maintaining data collection automation and achieving versatility with various containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of containers (stand-alone containers, bed-mounted containers, containers with arbitrary dimensions). This multi-functionality enables the same sensor module to serve different container configurations while maintaining dispensing event data collection capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If a comprehensive electronic recording of hand hygiene product usage is implemented, then accurate monitoring can be achieved, but existing dispensers lack the necessary monitoring capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring and recording functionality is extracted into a separate, dedicated sensor module that attaches to the dispenser. This extraction concentrates the complex electronic recording capabilities into a single unit, enabling accurate usage monitoring without complicating the overall dispenser system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor dispensing events and provide real-time data collection. This feedback system enables comprehensive electronic recording of hand hygiene product usage by tracking each dispensing event and maintaining accurate records.
3Extent of automation
If the sensor module is integrated into the dispenser housing, then the dispensing sensor can collect data, but the sensor module cannot be reused with different dispensers
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is segmented as a separate, detachable component rather than being permanently integrated into the dispenser housing. This segmentation enables the sensor module to be removed from one dispenser and attached to another, achieving reusability across different dispenser units while maintaining automated data collection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the sensor module and dispenser is designed to be dynamic and reversible through detachable mounting mechanisms. This dynamic design allows the sensor module to be easily attached and detached from different dispensers, providing flexibility and reusability unlike fixed integrated designs.
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
Enables accurate tracking of hand hygiene product usage, ensuring proper dispensing and motivating healthcare workers to adhere to hygiene protocols by providing real-time feedback and data analysis for improved infection control.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor arranged within the capsule and configured to measure a parameter associated with an elastic deformation of the capsule resulting from actuation or presence of the dispenser
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A re-usable sensor module (10) for use with a container (56) is described. The sensor module (10) comprises an elastically deformable capsule (12) with a top portion (14); a sensor (40) arranged within the capsule (12) and configured to measure a parameter associated with an elastic deformation of the capsule (12) resulting from actuation of a dispenser having the container or presence of the container (56); and a processor (36) arranged within the capsule (12) and coupled to the sensor (40). The processor (36) is configured to at least temporarily record at least one of the parameter and an event associated therewith, wherein the parameter is representative of a weight of the container (56) and/or wherein the event is representative of an actuation of the dispenser. The processor (36) is further configured to determine, based on at least one of the parameter and the event, at least one of a current filling level of the container (56) and an exchange of the container (56).