RFID Interrogator for Electrode Array Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing biomedical sensors lack efficient and reliable methods for authenticating and validating electrode arrays, particularly in environments prone to interference from electrosurgical units, and require manual data entry or complex network setups for data management.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a passive RFID transponder within the electrode array and a flexible patient interface cable with an integrated RFID interrogator system, enabling wireless communication and authentication of the electrode array's data, including manufacturing and usage history, while minimizing power consumption and interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If RFID technology is integrated into the sensor system for wireless authentication, then ease of operation and data management are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication processVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the RFID interrogator, authentication logic, and sensor interface into an integrated system. The RFID reader is embedded within the sensor assembly, merging multiple functions (signal acquisition, wireless communication, authentication) into a unified device, thereby improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor system performs multiple functions: physiological signal acquisition, wireless data transmission via RFID, and automated authentication. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate authentication devices and manual data entry systems, improving operational ease while managing complexity through functional integration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If a passive RFID transponder is used in the electrode array, then power consumption is reduced, but reliability of data transmission may be worsened due to interference from electrosurgical units

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoiddata transmission

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent acknowledges the interference challenge from electrosurgical units but designs the RFID system to operate in this environment by utilizing the existing RF field. The passive transponder design inherently consumes minimal power, and the system accepts that some interference exists but maintains reliability through robust protocol design and error handling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts RF transmission parameters and authentication protocols to maintain reliable communication despite interference. By modifying communication parameters and using error correction mechanisms, the system achieves both low power consumption and acceptable reliability in the presence of electrosurgical interference

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If manual data entry is used for sensor information, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time and productivity are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem structureVSAvoiddata entry time

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Sensor information such as manufacturer details, serial numbers, and calibration data are pre-stored in the RFID transponder during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual data entry during clinical use, saving time without significantly increasing device complexity since the data storage capability is inherent to RFID technology

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID system enables automated authentication and data retrieval without requiring manual intervention. The system self-identifies the sensor, verifies its authenticity, and retrieves necessary information automatically, eliminating time-consuming manual data entry processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution allows for reliable, low-power authentication and validation of electrode arrays with reduced interference, eliminating the need for external interrogators and enhancing system compatibility with existing smart memory device-based systems, thereby improving data management and reducing manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

RFID technology-based wireless transmission of data enables effective communication of data and data management in the absence of physical connections

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRFID (Radio Frequency Identification): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9411995B2Physiological sensor system with automatic authentication and validation by means of a radio frequency identification protocol with an integrated RFID interrogator system

Publication Date: 2016.08.09 COVIDIEN LP

AI summary

This invention relates to a physiological sensor which acquires pre-programmed data from an electrode or an electrode array using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. The source of the sensor may be authenticated by means of a wireless interface between an RFID transponder affixed to the electrode array, and an RFID interrogator embedded in the patient interface cable. The criteria for use are then verified to ensure that they are met by the electrode array before beginning signal acquisition. If the criteria are not met, a message is provided to the user via the monitor.