Unified Wireless Controller for Medical Device Command Confirmation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current portable and wearable medical devices for controlled release of therapeutics face challenges such as high malfunction rates, size, weight, and cost issues, as well as logistical difficulties in managing multiple devices due to varied interfaces and recharging requirements.

Innovation Solution

A medical device system featuring a first medical device, a first remote interface, and a second remote interface in communication, where the first medical device sends commands to the first remote interface, which confirms safety-critical information before sending it to the first medical device, and includes a touch screen for user input and a charging device for recharging both the medical device and the remote interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple medical devices are managed with separate controllers, then each device can be controlled independently, but the complexity of managing multiple devices increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice control flexibilityVSAvoidmanagement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by creating a single controller that can interface with multiple different medical devices through standardized wireless communication protocols. The controller is designed with multi-functional capabilities to control infusion pumps, insulin pumps, and other medical devices, eliminating the need for separate dedicated controllers for each device type while maintaining independent control capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple controllers are carried for different medical devices, then each device can be controlled, but the burden on the user increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidcontroller weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple controller functions into a single integrated controller unit. By combining the control capabilities for multiple medical devices into one device, the user no longer needs to carry separate controllers for each medical device, thereby reducing the total weight and burden on the user while maintaining full device compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Duration of action of stationary object

If multiple devices require separate recharging, then each device can be powered, but the time and effort for recharging increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery lifeVSAvoidrecharging time
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a charging system where multiple medical devices can be charged simultaneously through a single charging interface or docking station. This merging of charging functions allows users to recharge multiple devices at once, reducing the total time and effort required compared to charging each device separately.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Speed

If safety-critical commands are sent without confirmation, then the response time is reduced, but the risk of errors increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommand transmission speedVSAvoidcommand accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where safety-critical commands require confirmation from the user before execution. The system provides visual or auditory feedback to indicate that a command has been received and is awaiting confirmation, then executes the command only after explicit user affirmation. This feedback loop ensures command accuracy while maintaining acceptable response times through efficient confirmation protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11660392B2Devices, methods and systems for wireless control of medical devices
Publication Date: 2023.05.30 DEKA PRODUCTS LP
  • US11660392B2 patent drawing
  • US11660392B2 patent drawing
  • US11660392B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A medical device system. The system includes a first medical device, a first remote interface, and a second remote interface in communication with the first remote interface and the first medical device, wherein the first medical device sends a command to the first medical device through the second remote interface, and wherein when the second remote interface receives the command, the command must be confirmed by the second remote interface before the command is send by the second remote interface to the first medical device.