Re-usable sensor module configured to be detachably fastened to a holder for a container
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current dispensers for hand hygiene products lack accurate monitoring of usage, particularly for non-standard containers and those mounted on patient beds, leading to potential underuse or misuse of hand hygiene products in hospital settings.
Innovation Solution
A re-usable sensor module with an elastically deformable capsule that measures parameters associated with dispenser actuation, coupled with a processor for data recording and transmission, allowing for flexible attachment to various dispensers and providing visual feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dispensing sensor is integrated into the main housing of a body-worn fluid dispenser, then dispensing events can be monitored, but the dispenser cannot be used with different kinds of containers (stand-alone containers, containers mounted to patient's bed, or containers with arbitrary dimensions)
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is separated from the dispenser housing into an independent unit. The sensor module includes a sensor, processor, and power source that can function independently, allowing it to be detached and reattached to different container types without modifying the original dispenser structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A holder is introduced as an intermediary component between the sensor module and various container types. The holder provides a standardized interface that accommodates different container configurations (body-worn, stand-alone, bed-mounted) while maintaining consistent sensor measurement capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a sensor module is made re-usable and detachable, then it can be used with different dispensers and containers, but the attachment mechanism must be reliable enough to ensure accurate measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is designed with universal attachment capabilities that work across multiple dispenser and container configurations. The same sensor module can be attached to body-worn dispensers, stand-alone containers, or bed-mounted units through the standardized holder interface, maintaining measurement reliability across all applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module includes an integrated power source (rechargeable battery) and self-contained processing unit that operate independently of the dispenser system. This self-sufficiency ensures continuous operation and reliable data collection regardless of attachment status or dispenser type.
3Measurement precision
If the sensor module includes an elastically deformable capsule for measuring dispenser actuation, then usage can be accurately tracked, but the capsule must be sensitive enough to detect various actuation forces
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule is designed to undergo elastic deformation in response to actuation forces of varying magnitude. The sensor detects changes in the capsule's physical state (deformation, pressure, or position) and converts these into electrical signals for processing, enabling accurate measurement of different actuation forces without complex mechanical mechanisms.
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 usage and timely refilling, while being adaptable to different types and orientations of dispensers, thereby enhancing hand hygiene compliance in healthcare settings.
Implementation Method 1
an elastically deformable capsule with a top portion for placing a bottom of the container thereon
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 (56) or presence of the container (56); and a processor (36) arranged within the capsule (12) and coupled to the sensor (40), wherein the processor (36) is configured to at least temporarily record at least one of the parameter and an event associated therewith. The sensor module (10) further comprises a fastening member (18) configured to detachably fasten the sensor module (10) to a holder (62) for the container (56).