Data-Enabled Syringe Container with Dose Tracking Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for increasing patient adherence to self-inject medications are ineffective, as they either add burden to patients or lack reliable monitoring and tracking capabilities, particularly for expensive injectable medications like those used in hemophilia treatment.
Innovation Solution
A data-enabled syringe collection container equipped with an electronics module that senses and tracks dose events, providing reminders and notifications, and communicates data on adherence via a wireless network to patients, caregivers, or authorized parties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dosage-reminder devices are attached to containers, then patient adherence monitoring is improved, but patient burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors and tracks medication adherence without requiring patient action. The container itself performs the monitoring function through integrated sensors and electronics, eliminating the need for patients to manually log doses or interact with reminder devices, thus reducing patient burden while maintaining reliable monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
Manual paper-based injection logs are replaced with an electronic monitoring system that uses sensors, microcontrollers, and wireless communication to automatically track and report adherence data, substituting mechanical/manual processes with automated electronic systems
2Loss of information
If manual injection logs are used, then dose tracking is possible, but reliability of monitoring deteriorates due to patient burden
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system operates autonomously without requiring patient participation. Sensors automatically detect injection events and the system self-reports adherence data, eliminating reliance on patient memory and manual recording, thereby ensuring high reliability of monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback to patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers about adherence status. This feedback loop enables immediate awareness of missed doses and allows for timely interventions, improving overall monitoring reliability
3Ease of operation
If injectable medication is not monitored, then patient freedom is maintained, but healthcare costs increase due to missed doses
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides automated feedback to patients about their adherence status and upcoming doses, enabling them to manage their treatment independently without constant provider intervention. This maintains patient freedom while preventing costly missed doses through self-awareness and automated reminders
Solution Approach 2:
Expensive manual tracking methods are replaced with cost-effective electronic monitoring that automatically detects and reports adherence events, reducing the need for costly follow-up appointments and interventions while maintaining patient autonomy
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
Enhances medication adherence by reliably tracking and reminding patients of their self-inject medication schedules, reducing missed doses and the need for costly refills, thereby lowering healthcare costs and improving therapeutic outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The dropout door may include a spring-loaded one-way door configured to open downward into the container body and to automatically close after an article has passed through
Data Source
AI summary
A data-enabled syringe collection container. The data-enabled syringe collection container may include an upper inlet body; a container body coupled to the upper inlet body; an electronics module configured for sensing and tracking dose events, the electronics module coupled to at least one of the upper inlet body or the container body; and wherein the upper inlet body may include an inlet lid; a first opening; an entry channel; and a receiving assembly including a dropout door, and wherein the inlet lid is configured for covering and accessing the first opening, the entry channel is configured to provide a passage way from the first opening to the receiving assembly, and the dropout door is configured to allow passage through a second opening into the container body.