RFID Sensor Calibration in Sterilization Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for calibrating disposable pressure sensors in medical applications, such as extracorporeal blood circuits, are costly and inefficient due to the need for individual calibration of each sensor and the risk of cross-contamination, especially in hygiene-sensitive environments.
Innovation Solution
A method for calibrating RFID sensors by placing them in a chamber with known parameter values during their production, allowing for simultaneous calibration during sterilization processes, eliminating the need for direct sensor contacting and reducing maintenance costs, while ensuring sterility and minimizing contact with blood and air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If individual calibration of each disposable pressure sensor is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple disposable sensors are calibrated simultaneously by placing them together in a single calibration chamber, merging individual calibration processes into a batch operation. This maintains measurement precision for each sensor while dramatically increasing productivity by calibrating many sensors in parallel rather than sequentially
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration chamber serves multiple functions: it provides a controlled reference environment for calibration, acts as a sterilization chamber, and can accommodate multiple sensors simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate equipment and processes, improving both precision and manufacturing efficiency
2Productivity
If disposable sensors are used in large quantities, then productivity is improved, but calibration costs increase proportionally
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration process merges multiple sensors into a single batch operation within one chamber, spreading the fixed costs of calibration equipment and personnel across many sensors. This dramatically reduces the calibration cost per sensor while enabling high-volume production
Solution Approach 2:
Calibration is performed as a preliminary action during the manufacturing process, before the sensors are sterilized and packaged. This integration of calibration into the early manufacturing stage eliminates the need for separate calibration operations later, reducing overall costs for high-volume production
3Ease of operation
If sensors are placed in contact with blood or air in open systems, then measurement accessibility is improved, but risk of cross-contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
A sterile barrier or membrane acts as an intermediary between the sensor and the blood or air in the extracorporeal circuit. This allows the sensor to measure pressure and other parameters accurately while preventing direct contact that would cause cross-contamination, thus maintaining both accessibility and safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains a sterile, controlled environment around the sensor, effectively creating an inert atmosphere that prevents contamination. The sensor operates in a protected zone where sterility is maintained through controlled barriers and sterilization processes, eliminating cross-contamination risks while preserving measurement capability
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 approach simplifies and cost-effectively calibrates sensors, reduces the risk of cross-contamination, and eliminates the need for transducer protectors, enabling precise and sterile parameter measurement within a closed system without contact between the sensor and blood, thus enhancing the safety and efficiency of medical treatments.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention relates to a method for calibrating at least one sensor, in particular an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for calibrating sensors (1), particularly RFID sensors within a chamber (9), such as a sterilization chamber. The invention further relates to sensor (1) calibrated using the method according to the invention, a disposable device (3) comprising such a sensor (1) and a treatment device.