RFID Sharps Counting via Conductive Foam Circuit Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies are inadequate for automating the counting of small, smooth objects like needles and scalpel blades in the operating room due to their size and shape, which makes it difficult to attach RFID tags, and existing mechanical counting devices are cumbersome and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer foam assembly with conductive and non-conductive layers that completes circuits when pierced by sharps, allowing for electronic counting and validation, combined with RFID tags on the container for automated tracking and verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If RFID tags are attached to needles and scalpel blades for automated counting, then automation capability is improved, but the small size and smooth profile of these objects make tag placement difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces foam blocks as intermediary carriers that can be easily tagged with RFID tags. The foam blocks serve as mediators between the RFID tagging system and the sharps objects, allowing automated counting of sharps indirectly through counting of their foam block carriers rather than requiring direct tagging of the small, smooth sharps objects themselves
2Measurement precision
If mechanical needle counting devices are used, then counting accuracy is improved, but the devices become cumbersome and require manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical counting devices with an automated system using RFID tags and readers. The mechanical system that required manual operation and physical manipulation of counting tools is substituted with an electronic system that automatically detects and counts tagged foam blocks containing sharps, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining counting accuracy
3Ease of operation
If manual counting methods are used, then operational simplicity is improved, but human error increases and validation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback system where RFID readers detect tagged foam blocks and provide real-time counting information. This feedback mechanism automatically validates the presence and quantity of sharps, eliminating human error associated with manual counting while maintaining operational simplicity through automated detection and verification processes
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
Provides accurate electronic counting and validation of sharps, reducing manual error and facilitating easy entry into electronic medical records, while also ensuring all sharps are accounted for during procedures.
Implementation Method 1
As the sharps are punctured through the multi-layer foam assembly, one or more circuits will be completed or the capacitance between the layers will be changed from a baseline capacitance measurement
Implementation Method 2
The RFID tag may then communicate the number of closed circuits, along with additional information, to the RFID reader upon request
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for counting sharps returned to a container. An example method of counting sharps returned to a container having at least two layers of penetrable conductive material includes periodically checking a plurality of circuits formed by the first and second layers of material to determine if each circuit is open or closed, and keeping a count of the number of closed circuits.