Wireless Tracking for Pharmaceutical Sampling Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional sampling systems for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical processes rely on manual recording of sample information, which is prone to errors and lacks a foolproof method for tracking location, date, and user data.
Innovation Solution
Integration of wireless memory and communication devices, such as RFID, Zigbee, and Bluetooth, on sample storage devices and holders to electronically track and record sample information, including identity, location, installation date, and sampling events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual recording methods are used for sample information, then the system structure remains simple, but errors in recording and tracking sample data occur frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical recording methods with wireless electronic tracking systems (RFID, Zigbee, Bluetooth) to eliminate human error in data recording while maintaining system simplicity through automated identification and tracking of sample containers
Solution Approach 2:
The sample containers are equipped with wireless communication devices that automatically transmit their own identification information, location, and sampling data without requiring manual intervention, enabling self-tracking and self-reporting capabilities
2Reliability
If wireless tracking devices are integrated on sample storage devices, then tracking reliability improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication devices integrated in the sampling holder serve multiple functions: identifying sample containers, tracking their locations, recording sampling events, and storing metadata, thereby improving reliability while avoiding the need for separate dedicated systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the tracking, identification, and data recording functions into a single integrated wireless communication system within the sampling holder, reducing overall system complexity compared to using separate manual systems for each function
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention uses a wireless memory/communication device at least on the one or more sample storage devices, preferably on both the one or more sample storage devices and the sampling holder, optionally the port on the equipment as well. Data such as that relating to the vessel, the location of the port on the vessel, the device, its manufacture date or lot number, the date of the installation, sterilization and/or taking of a sample along with the person who installed the device and/or took the sample can be read and preferably added to the wireless device when a read/write type of device as these events occur through a scanner/reader/writer device (fixed or hand held). The sample storage device in the laboratory can also then be read and recorded to track the sample storage device's life.