Smart Active Connector with RFID Authentication and LED Status
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors are not well-suited for sterilized environments, leading to premature wear, inventory control issues, cross-infection risks, and operational inefficiencies, particularly in hospitals, due to inadequate connection security and customizable features.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a smart socket and plug connector system that includes an identification system using a processing unit and display unit with LEDs to indicate connection status, an electronic switch for secure authentication, and a method for connection history control, which reads and authenticates plug identifiers and tracks connection cycles to prevent unauthorized connections and manage inventory effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connectors are used in sterilized environments, then connection functionality is provided, but premature wear occurs due to aggressive chemical composition and repeated sterilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a disposable plug connector design where the plug is intended for single-use after sterilization, while the socket connector is reusable. This resolves the contradiction by accepting that the plug will experience chemical wear from sterilization but eliminates the need to protect expensive reusable components, streamlining the sterilization process and improving overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system is segmented into two distinct parts: a disposable plug connector and a reusable socket connector. This segmentation allows differential treatment during sterilization - the plug can be aggressively sterilized once and discarded, while the socket receives gentler, repeated sterilization, thereby extending the lifespan of the critical reusable component.
2Productivity
If conventional connectors are used without identification capabilities, then connection simplicity is maintained, but inventory control and tracking become inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system incorporates multiple functions into a single integrated design: electrical connection, sterilization capability, RFID identification for tracking, and visual connection status indication. This multi-functionality improves inventory management efficiency without requiring separate tracking systems, as the RFID tags enable automated identification and monitoring throughout the supply chain.
Solution Approach 2:
RFID tags are introduced as intermediary elements that enable communication between the connector system and inventory management systems. These passive tags store identification information that can be read remotely, allowing efficient tracking and inventory control without adding complex active electronics to the connectors themselves.
3Ease of operation
If conventional connectors lack connection status indication, then device simplicity is preserved, but visual identification of secure connection is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The socket connector incorporates LED indicators that change color or illuminate to provide visual feedback on connection status. Green LEDs indicate proper connection, while red LEDs indicate improper or unauthorized connection attempts. This simple visual indication system greatly improves ease of operation without significantly increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system automatically provides connection status indication through integrated LEDs and RFID verification, eliminating the need for manual checking or external monitoring equipment. The system self-verifys connection authenticity and communicates status visually, improving operational ease while keeping the added complexity minimal.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If disposable plug connectors are used to reduce cross-infection risks, then infection control is improved, but connection cycle tracking and restocking efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
RFID tags serve as intermediaries that enable automated tracking of disposable plug connectors throughout the supply chain. These tags store identification information that allows real-time monitoring of inventory levels, usage patterns, and restocking needs, thereby maintaining high infection control standards while improving restocking efficiency through automated inventory management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the socket connector reads RFID tags on plug connectors to verify authenticity and track usage. This feedback loop enables automated inventory management, where the system can monitor consumption rates, trigger restocking alerts, and ensure proper disposal of used connectors, thereby improving productivity in restocking operations while maintaining infection control.
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
The solution provides secure, reliable connections, reduces cross-infection risks, streamlines inventory and restocking processes, and extends the lifespan of connectors by ensuring only authorized connections are made, thereby enhancing operational efficiency in sterilized environments.
Implementation Method 1
the light source comprises an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on a circuit board
Data Source
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AI summary
Electrical socket connector (10) for pluggable connection to a complementary plug connector (40), comprising a casing (11), a connection terminal assembly (13) mounted in the casing for connection to a complementary connection terminal assembly (43) of the plug connector, an identification system for identification of the plug connector, and an electronic switch (32) for secure connection between the socket and plug connectors. The identification system comprises a display unit (12) for connection status and a processing unit configured to read a plug identifier provided by an identifier module (46) of the plug connector each time the socket and plug connectors are connected together, and to control the electronic switch and the visual aspect of the display unit based on the plug identifier output.