Universal Data Container for Multi-Source Medical Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The collection and processing of medical data for home monitoring of chronic diseases are complicated and not intuitive for older patients, especially when multiple data sources and technologies are involved, leading to usability, maintainability, safety, and economic inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A method and device where objects with stored data are placed in a container, allowing for automatic data reading and customizable processing steps based on action-determining objects, such as RFID cards, which trigger specific actions like data transmission or display of statistics, enhancing user control and simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple data sources and technologies are used for home monitoring, then the comprehensiveness of data collection is improved, but the complexity of data acquisition and processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data collection by using multiple independent data sources (blood pressure monitor, glucose meter, weight scale, etc.) that can be independently placed in the container. Each data source operates autonomously and is read separately by the control unit, dividing the complex task of multi-parameter monitoring into manageable independent segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The container serves as an intermediary device that mediates between multiple data sources and the processing system. It provides a unified interface where all data sources are placed, and the control unit automatically reads and processes the data, eliminating the need for users to manually manage multiple connection protocols and interfaces.
2Measurement precision
If manual data entry or manual selection is required, then data accuracy can be ensured, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically reading data from all data sources placed in the container without requiring user intervention. The control unit autonomously detects which data sources are present, reads their data through appropriate interfaces, and processes the information, eliminating manual entry while maintaining data accuracy through direct automated reading.
Solution Approach 2:
Data sources are pre-configured with their own identification and communication protocols before being placed in the container. The control unit is pre-programmed with the capability to automatically detect and read from various types of data sources, so that when the user simply places the devices in the container, the system is already prepared to acquire the data without requiring user configuration or selection.
3Ease of operation
If automated data reading is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of data sources with different communication protocols (Bluetooth, RFID, weight sensors, etc.). The control unit is equipped with multiple reading units that can automatically detect and communicate with various data source types through a single unified interface, making the system multi-functional without requiring separate devices for each data type.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reading interfaces are used to support various data sources, then the adaptability is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple reading interfaces (Bluetooth reader, RFID reader, weight sensor, etc.) into a single integrated control unit within the container. All reading functions are combined in one device, and the control unit automatically selects and activates the appropriate reading interface based on the type of data source detected, simplifying the user experience to a single container placement action while maintaining compatibility with various data sources.
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
Enables intuitive and efficient data acquisition and processing, reducing errors and complexity, allowing older patients to manage multiple data sources and technologies with ease, improving usability and maintainability while ensuring safety and economy.
Implementation Method 1
a) at least one RFID antenna (19) for automatically reading data from at least one RFID card (18) placed in or on the container (17)
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The method involves reading the data from object (18) such as ID card (12), blood pressure monitor (11), a blood glucose meter (13), a clock (14), a medication box with RFID tag (15), or a mobile telephone (16) on storage surface (17) through Bluetooth, WLAN, zigbee, and IrDA. The data read from object is processed and transmitted to data center. An independent claim is included for device for collecting and processing data from objects.