Sequential Sensor Operation for Drug Delivery Data Logging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current drug delivery devices for subcutaneous injections, such as those used for diabetes management, often lack automated logging capabilities, leading to inaccurate and incomplete records of injection data, which can mislead medical decision-making.
Innovation Solution
A combination assembly comprising a process assembly and a thereto attachable sensor assembly, where the sensor assembly includes a first sensor to detect rotational movement and a second sensor to identify the type of drug delivery device, operated sequentially to optimize resource usage and ensure stable operation, allowing for accurate logging of dose sizes and drug types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple sensors are operated simultaneously to collect both rotational movement data and device type identifier, then data collection completeness is improved, but energy consumption and system stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by operating sensors sequentially in time-based intervals rather than simultaneously. The processor controls the first sensor to detect rotational movement during a first time interval, then operates the second sensor to detect device type identifier during a second time interval. This periodic operation ensures both data types are collected while managing energy consumption through controlled timing cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by determining the operational state of the device before initiating full sensor operation. The processor first assesses whether the device is in a state requiring both sensors, then selectively activates sensors based on this preliminary determination. This prevents unnecessary energy consumption when full data collection is not required.
2Loss of information
If multiple sensors are operated simultaneously to collect both rotational movement data and device type identifier, then data collection completeness is improved, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by operating sensors sequentially in time-based intervals rather than simultaneously. The processor controls the first sensor to detect rotational movement during a first time interval, then operates the second sensor to detect device type identifier during a second time interval. This periodic operation ensures both data types are collected while managing energy consumption through controlled timing cycles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensor assembly is made detachable to reduce device complexity, then ease of manufacture and adaptability are improved, but reliability of data collection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the sensor assembly to perform multiple functions through integrated sensors that detect both rotational movement and device type identifiers. This multi-functional sensor assembly can be attached to different drug delivery devices and consistently perform reliable data collection across various device types, achieving both adaptability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the processor continuously monitors data from both sensors and validates the collected information. The system cross-references rotational movement data with device type identifier information to ensure data integrity. This feedback loop maintains reliable data collection even though the sensor assembly is detachable and may be attached to different devices.
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 enables secure, efficient, and accurate logging of drug delivery data, reducing errors and improving the reliability of patient treatment records by automating the data collection process.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor adapted to detect a rotational position and/or rotational movement of the indicator element
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor adapted to detect a type identifier
Data Source
AI summary
A combination assembly comprising a process assembly and a thereto attachable sensor assembly is provided. The process assembly comprises an indicator element and a type identifier. The indicator element is arranged to rotate relative to a reference component and corresponding to a reference axis. The sensor assembly comprises a first sensor adapted to detect a rotational position and/or rotational movement of the indicator element, a second sensor adapted to detect a type identifier, an energy source, and a switch actuatable between an off state and an on state in which an operational cycle is initiated. The first sensor is operated to detect an amount of rotational movement performed by the indicator element, and the second sensor is operated to detect a type identifier. During an operational cycle the first and the second sensor are operated sequentially to prevent that peak draws of resources from the sensors take place concurrently.