Refrigerator and method for a smart storage of temperature sensitive pharmaceuticals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigeration systems fail to maintain optimal temperature zones for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, leading to potential loss of potency and the need for complex inventory management, especially for immunobiologics like vaccines, due to temperature fluctuations and the lack of efficient monitoring and alert systems.
Innovation Solution
A smart refrigerator system with controlled temperature zones, sensors, and a user interface device (UID) connected to an Application Service Provider (ASP) for real-time monitoring, inventory management, and alert systems, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and maintaining product potency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional refrigeration systems are used for storing temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, then basic cooling function is provided, but temperature control precision and monitoring capability are insufficient leading to potency loss
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous temperature monitoring with sensors that provide real-time feedback to the control system. When temperature deviations are detected, the system automatically adjusts cooling parameters or sends alerts to ensure temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals remain within required temperature ranges, thereby maintaining product potency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual temperature monitoring and inventory management with automated electronic sensors, wireless communication modules, and software-based inventory tracking systems. This substitution enables precise temperature measurement and automatic alerting without human intervention.
2Productivity
If manual inventory management is used for pharmaceuticals, then simplicity is maintained, but efficiency and accuracy of inventory control are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs inventory tracking, temperature logging, and alert generation without requiring manual intervention. Sensors continuously monitor conditions and the software automatically manages inventory records, reducing the need for manual counting and documentation while improving accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The refrigerator system integrates multiple functions including temperature control, humidity monitoring, inventory tracking, automatic alerting, and data logging into a single unified platform. This multi-functionality improves productivity by consolidating what would otherwise require separate systems and manual processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple temperature zones are created for different pharmaceuticals, then storage versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The refrigerator is divided into multiple independently controlled temperature zones, each capable of maintaining different temperature ranges suitable for different types of pharmaceuticals. Each zone has its own sensors and control parameters, allowing flexible storage of temperature-sensitive products without requiring a completely different storage system.
4Reliability
If real-time monitoring and alert systems are implemented, then product safety is improved, but energy consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system operates in periodic cycles, with sensors taking temperature readings at predetermined intervals rather than continuously. The system can adjust monitoring frequency based on conditions - increasing intensity when deviations are detected and reducing it when temperatures are stable, thereby maintaining product safety while managing energy consumption.
Data Source
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AI summary
A refrigerator and /or freezer unit and system for storing, monitoring, and maintaining a supply of temperature sensitive pharmaceutical products in compliance with regulatory requirements. The unit contains compartments for each product type in multiple controlled temperature zones with sensors and readers to track product status and content. A user interface device in communication with an application service provider provides the user with a secure access to the content of the unit and product information. The application service provider provides the user with web accessed optimal management of product inventory.