U.S. patent application number 10/569008 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-16 for warning device and method.
Invention is credited to Abraham Varon.
Application Number | 20060256664 10/569008 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32697102 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060256664 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Varon; Abraham |
November 16, 2006 |
Warning device and method
Abstract
A warning device for attachment to packaging of a product which
has an expiration date, the device including timer means for
counting passage of a pre-set period of time, according to a timing
program tailored to the product, to the expiration date, and for
providing a signal at the expiration date, and an indicator
arranged to receive the signal and to provide an indication to
differentiate a pre-expiration date period from a post-expiration
date period, and a switch coupled to the packaging and arranged to
activate the indicator when a person attempts to use the
product.
Inventors: |
Varon; Abraham; (Ramat Gan,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RADER, FISHMAN & GRAUER PLLC
39533 WOODWARD AVENUE
SUITE 140
BLOOMFIELD HILLS
MI
48304-0610
US
|
Family ID: |
32697102 |
Appl. No.: |
10/569008 |
Filed: |
August 20, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
August 20, 2004 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IL04/00764 |
371 Date: |
February 21, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
368/89 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 51/24 20130101;
B65D 79/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
368/089 |
International
Class: |
G04F 1/00 20060101
G04F001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 21, 2003 |
IL |
157524 |
Claims
1. A warning device for attachment to packaging of a product which
has an expiration date, the device comprising: timer means for
counting passage of a pre-set period of time, according to a timing
program tailored to the product, to the expiration date, and for
providing a signal at the expiration date; an indicator arranged to
receive said signal and to provide an indication to differentiate a
pre-expiration date period from a post-expiration date period; and
a switch coupled to the packaging and arranged to activate said
indicator when a person attempts to use the product.
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein said timer means
includes timer means for counting a factory pre-set period of time
from a manufacturing date until the expiration date.
3. The device according to claim 1, wherein said timer means
includes timer means for counting a pre-set period of time from a
date of first use until the expiration date.
4. The device according to claim 3, further comprising a trigger to
cause said timer means to start a countdown from a date of first
opening the product.
5. The device according to claim 1 wherein an indication signal is
provided during a post-expiration date period, and no signal is
provided during a pre-expiration date period.
6. The device according to claim 1 wherein an indication signal is
provided during said pre-expiration date period, and no signal is
provided during said post-expiration date period.
7. The device according to claim 1 wherein one kind of indication
signal is provided during said pre-expiration date period, and
another kind of signal is provided during said post-expiration date
period.
8. The device according to claim 1, wherein said timer means and
said indicator are electronic means.
9. The device according to claim 1, wherein said indicator provides
an audible indication.
10. The device according to claim 1, wherein said indicator
provides a visual indication.
11. (canceled)
12. (canceled)
13. (canceled)
14. The device according to claim 1, and comprising: a printed
circuit board (PCB) with a chip-on-board having a dedicated timing
program for providing signals in accordance with the timing
program; an in-factory activated trigger for activating a timing
countdown from date of manufacture; an automatically activated
switch for activating said indicator whenever the product is used;
and an internal power source for powering the device.
15. The device according to claim 3 and comprising: a printed
circuit board (PCB) with a chip-on-board having a dedicated timing
program for providing signals in accordance with the timing
program; an automatically activated trigger for activating a timing
countdown from the product's first use; an automatically activated
switch for activating said indicator each time the product is used;
and an internal power source for powering the device.
16. A method for providing a warning for a product which has an
expiration date, the method comprising: coupling to the product
packaging timer means for counting passage of a pre-set period of
time, according to a timing program tailored to the product, to the
expiration date; and an indicator for providing an indication to
differentiate a pre-expiration date period from a post-expiration
date period; triggering said timer means to automatically begin
counting passage of said pre-set period of time, and automatically
activating said indicator each time the product is used to
differentiate pre-expiration from post-expiration.
17. The method according to claim 16, wherein said pre-set period
of time is a factory defined product expiration time from
manufacturing date.
18. The method according to claim 16, wherein said pre-set period
of time is a product expiration time from a first opening of the
product packaging.
19. The method according to claim 16, wherein said pre-set period
of time is a factory defined product expiration time from
manufacturing date, or a product expiration time from a first
opening of the product packaging, whatever happens first.
20. The method according to claim 16, wherein the indicator
provides a special signal at a time of a first opening, which acts
as tamper evidence.
21. The method according to claim 16, wherein said indicator
provides a signal which starts automatically when said product is
used, and stops automatically when said product is put away.
22. The method according to claim 16, wherein said indicator
provides a signal which starts automatically when said product is
used, and stops automatically after a pre-set signal time.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to warning devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Many medicines and food products have an expiration date
printed on packaging, which is the last date on which the product
is recommended for use. These products are defined herein as
products with a "single expiration date".
[0003] Also, there are products whose expiration date is based on
two expiration mechanisms: the first one is the printed expiration
date as mentioned before, and the second one is a time limit
starting from the first time of opening the seal or of using the
product. These products are defined herein as products with a
"double expiration date". Examples of these products include: eye
drops--to be used within one month from first opening, nose
drops--to be used within one month from first opening, certain
salad dressings--to be used within 6 weeks from first opening.
[0004] The second expiration mechanism, which is measured from the
time of opening the package, is extremely problematic at present,
because there is no indication of the point in time when the
product expires (unlike the printed expiration date). For example,
suppose that a few weeks after first use of eye drops, there's a
need to use them again. It is most likely that the user cannot
remember whether 3 weeks have passed from the first use, so that
the product can be used, or 5 weeks have passed from the first use,
so that the product must not be used.
[0005] Thus, the use of expired medicine and foods is very likely
today, particularly of products with an expiration date counted
from the first opening. It is also likely that people forget to
check the printed expiration date. The result may be inefficient
treatment, consumption of spoiled products, direct damage to
consumers, and damage to manufacturers in terms of reputation and
possible law suits.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a compact electronic device
which automatically provides an alert when the product has reached
the expiration date (i.e. should be disposed of and not used).
Preferably, the device is located on or inside the packaging of the
product, for example, within the cap of a bottled product.
[0007] The device might be in various shapes and dimensions, and
located in various options. For example: the device might be
inserted within the cap of a product sold in bottles or tubes with
caps. Another example: the device might have a flat shape, so that
it can be attached to the packaging of the product as a sticker
(adhesive label).
[0008] The device automatically provides an alert when the
expiration date for the product has passed. Optionally it can
provide another signal during the period in which the expiration
date has not passed yet. A simple example: before the expiration
date, the device activates a voice message saying: "OK TO USE."
After the expiration date, the device activates a voice message
saying: "EXPIRED. EXPIRED. EXPIRED.".
[0009] The signal activation may be accomplished by various means.
One example: For a medicine sold in a bottle with a cap (e.g. eye
drops), a mechanical switch might activate the signal by shorting a
circuit when the cap is opened. Another example: For tablets sold
in paper or plastic packaging (with no cap), a motion sensor, which
can be a part of the device, identifies that the medicine has
moved, thus activating the signal.
[0010] The device has several functional versions:
[0011] a. A version for products with double expiration date, which
is designed to provide an alert only upon expiration of the time
limit from first opening.
[0012] b. A version for products with double expiration date, which
is designed to alert expiration due to either or both of the two
expiration mechanisms: expiration due to time limit from first
opening, or general expiration date, from the date of manufacture
(the one which is usually printed on the packaging).
[0013] c. A version for products with a single expiration date (the
one which is usually printed on the packaging).
[0014] The device provides an alert when the product has passed
this expiration date. The alert signal may be audible or visual or
both.
[0015] An audible signal might be beep sounds, tunes (music) or
voice (a speaking device). A visual signal might be a constant or
blinking light, or a changing visual display, as by using a
chemical process, e.g. strip which changes its color after a
predefined time.
[0016] Generally, an audible signal is preferred because the user
hears it, while a visual signal might be missed, unless the user is
actually looking at or for it. However, for some applications the
visual signal is useful, for example, providing an alert of
expiration for people with hearing problems. If desired, both an
audible and a visible indication may be provided.
[0017] The alert signal for expiration, or the differentiation
between prior to expiration and post expiration, can be achieved in
several ways:
[0018] Option 1: while the product has not expired, there will be
no alert. When the product has expired, there will be an alert
signal. For example: continuous beep sounds when opening the cap or
when picking up the product. This alert indicates that the product
should be disposed of, and should not be used anymore.
[0019] Option 2: while the product has not expired, there will be
one kind of signal. When the product has expired, there will be
another kind of signal. For example, before expiration, when
opening the cap or when picking up the product, there will be a
beep sound each 5 seconds, or a voice saying "ok to use". After
expiration--when opening the cap or when picking up the product,
there will be continuous loud highrate alert beep sounds or a voice
saying "expired . . . expired . . . expired". It will be
appreciated that, if the device malfunctions for some reason (e.g.
the battery is dead), and there is no signal at all, this will also
mean that the product has expired, and should not be used.
[0020] Option 3: while the product has not expired, there will be
some kind of signal. For example: a short melody (tunes) when
opening the cap or when picking up the product. When the product
has expired, there will be no signal at all. The absence of a
signal indicates that the product should be disposed, and shall not
be used anymore.
[0021] Option 1 is least desirable, because if the device
malfunctions for some reason (e.g. the battery is empty), the user
might think that the product has not expired, and may be used.
Preferably, the product will be designed to include a battery whose
life is longer than the product's shelf life, so that this should
not happen. Option 2 and option 3 are preferred, because there must
be a signal indicating the product can be used. If there is no
signal, the product should be considered as expired, thus
disposed.
[0022] The device is very low cost, thus the device can be disposed
of with the disposed product or packaging. The device is also
extremely simple to use: it operates automatically. No special user
activation or setup whatsoever is required. Rather, the device is
factory set for its specific product.
[0023] There is thus provided, in accordance with the present
invention, a warning device to be attached to packaging of any
product which has an expiration date, the device including timer
means for counting passage of a pre-set period of time, according
to a timing program tailored for the product, to the expiration
date, and for providing a signal at the expiration date, an
indicator arranged to receive said signal and to provide an
indication to differentiate a pre-expiration date period from a
post-expiration date period, and a switch coupled to the packaging
and arranged to activate the indicator when a person attempts to
use the product. According to one embodiment, the device includes
means for counting passage of a factory pre-set period of time from
manufacturing date, according to a timing program tailored to a
selected product, and an indicator for providing an indication to
differentiate the pre expiration period from the post expiration
period.
[0024] According to an alternative embodiment, the device includes
means for counting passage of a pre-set period of time from the
date of first opening of the product packaging by consumer,
according to a timing program tailored to a selected product, and
an indicator for providing an indication to differentiate the pre
expiration period from the post expiration period.
[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the device includes a
printed circuit board (PCB) with a chip-on-board having a dedicated
timing program for providing signals in accordance with the timing
program, an in-factory activated trigger for activating a timing
countdown from date of manufacture, a signaling device, such as a
speaker, an automatically activated switch for activating the
signaling device whenever the product packaging is opened, or
whenever the user attempts to use the product, and an internal
power source, such as a battery, for powering the device.
[0026] According to another preferred embodiment, the device
includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with a chip-on-board having
a dedicated timing program for providing signals in accordance with
the timing program, an automatically activated switch for
activating the timing countdown from product's first opening by
consumer, a signaling device, an automatically activated switch for
activating the signaling device whenever the product packaging is
opened, and an internal power source for powering the device.
[0027] Preferably, the device is designed for the life span of the
related product, so that battery replacement will not be
needed.
[0028] As mentioned before, the use of audible tones (beeps,
melody, voice) as a signal can be replaced with light, i.e. using a
visual signal instead of a sound signal. For example, this can be a
constant light or a biking light. This solution maintains the same
low cost and functional simplicity of the device. This solution is
good for people with hearing difficulties, as well as for people
who prefer a silent device. The operation is based on the same
principle: when the consumer opens the product packaging or
attempts to use the product (medicine, food), blinking lights
appear, indicating whether the product has expired (e.g., blinking
red light) or not expired (e.g., blinking green light). It is also
possible to combine both a visual and an audible indication for the
same product.
[0029] There is also provided in accordance with the invention, a
method for providing a warning for a product which has an
expiration date. The method includes coupling to the product
packaging timer means for counting passage of a pre-set period of
time, according to a timing program tailored to the product, to the
expiration date; and an indicator for providing an indication to
differentiate a pre-expiration date period from a post-expiration
date period. The method further includes triggering the timer means
to automatically begin counting passage of the pre-set period of
time, and automatically activating the indicator after passage of
the pre-set period of time.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] The present invention will be further understood and
appreciated from the following detailed description taken in
conjunction with the drawings in which:
[0031] FIG. 1a is a sectional view of packaging including a warning
device constructed and operative in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 1b is an enlarged front view of the subassembly marked
as detail A of the device of FIG. 1d;
[0033] FIG. 1c is an isometric view of the subassembly of FIG.
1b;
[0034] FIG. 1d is an exploded view of the packaging of FIG. 1a;
[0035] FIG. 1e is an isometric view of the subassembly marked as B
in FIG. 1d;
[0036] FIG. 2a, is an exploded view of a device constructed and
operative in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0037] FIG. 2b, is an isometric view of the same assembly;
[0038] FIG. 2c, is an isometric partial view of the same
assembly;
[0039] FIG. 3 is a flow chart of operation of a device constructed
and operative in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0040] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of operation of a device constructed
and operative in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0041] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of operation of a device constructed
and operative in accordance with a further embodiment of the
present invention;
[0042] FIG. 6 is a flow chart of operation of a device constructed
and operative in accordance with yet another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0043] FIG. 7 is a flow chart of operation of a device constructed
and operative in accordance with a further embodiment of the
present invention;
[0044] FIG. 8 is a flow chart of operation of a device constructed
and operative in accordance with yet another embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0045] The present invention provides a compact electronic warning
device, preferably located on or inside the packaging of a product
having an expiration date, such as medicines or foods. This device
automatically provides an alert when the expiration date of the
product has passed (i.e., when the product should be disposed of
and not used). Devices according to the invention may be used for
indicating expiration time after which the product is less good or
less safe to use or not good at all or not safe to use at all or
strictly forbidden to use. They may be used on products which have
expiration dates due to safety reasons, due to functional reasons,
or for any other reason. The warning device according to the
invention includes timer means for counting passage of a pre-set
period of time, according to a timing program tailored for the
product, to the expiration date, an indicator for providing an
indication to differentiate a pre-expiration date period from a
post-expiration date period, and a trigger or switch to cause the
timer means to start a countdown from the manufacturing date, or
from the first opening date, or both independently.
[0046] The electronic unit preferably includes the following
components:
[0047] a. A printed circuit board assembly (PCB), preferably with a
Chip-On-Board, that is responsible for time measuring, based on a
factory preset timing program (internal programming), and for
sending signals to a signaling means. The PCB can be standard
epoxy-glass, or a new generation printed circuit--which uses an
inexpensive, thin, possibly flexible base, such as paper or some
type of polymer, or any other PCB. The thin PCB option is
particularly suitable for designing a device in the shape and size
of an adhesive label.
[0048] b. Signaling or indicator means, such as piezo speaker (a
very thin speaker) or another type of speaker, or a steady or
blinking light, such as a LED or Micro Bulb, or any other small
size signaling means.
[0049] c. A switch or trigger to activate the signaling means when
the user opens the packaging or attempts to use the product. In the
case of a product in a bottle with a cap, the trigger can be a
mechanical switch, activated by opening the cap. In the case of a
product, such as tablets, in a paper box, the trigger can be a
motion sensitive component. Alternatively, any other suitable
trigger can be utilized, for example, a sensor to sense the sound
made when a user extracts a pill from a blister pack.
[0050] d. When the product has an expiration date counted from the
manufacturing date, there is provided a switch or trigger which is
activated in the factory at the time of manufacture, thus
activating countdown. It will be appreciated that the "trigger"
can, in effect, be installation of the battery or any other process
during manufacture or assembly, with no separate switch or other
element required.
[0051] e. In addition or instead, when it is desired to identify an
expiration date a pre-defined time after the first opening, there
is provided a switch or trigger which identifies the first opening
of the product, and activates countdown. In the case of a product
in a bottle with a cap, the trigger can be a mechanical switch,
activated by opening the cap. According to one embodiment, the
trigger is the same mechanism mentioned at the previous paragraph
(c), having a dual function: i.e. it activates the signaling at
every cap opening, and it also activates the countdown at the first
opening. Alternatively, this trigger can be a different switch,
possibly connected to a seal on the cap, and activated when tearing
off the seal. If the device is a kind of adhesive label, the
triggering may be activated as a part of tearing the seal with the
first opening.
[0052] f. A power source, preferably a small battery, such as a 1.5
Volt LR41 or LR 1130, or any other inexpensive small cell. A very
thin battery is preferably when the device is designed in the shape
and size of an adhesive label. Some existing new technologies, such
as "Power Paper" may be considered.
[0053] The device has several functional versions:
[0054] a. A version for products having two expiration dates, but
which is designed to alert only at the expiration of the time limit
from the first opening. In this case, the countdown is activated
from the moment the consumer first opens the product.
[0055] b. A version for products with two expiration dates, which
is designed to provide an alert at the expiration of a time limit
according to either of the two expiration mechanisms: expiration
due to time limit from first opening, or general expiration date,
from manufacturing (which is usually printed on the packaging). In
this case, there are two independent countdowns: one countdown is
activated from the moment the consumer first opens the product, and
the second countdown is activated by the manufacturer, as a part of
the manufacturing process.
[0056] c. A version for products with a single expiration date from
the date of manufacture (which is usually printed on the
packaging). The device provides an alert when the product has
passed this expiration date. In this case, the countdown is
activated by the manufacturer, as a part of the manufacturing
process.
[0057] The invention can be applied in various embodiments, a few
of which will now be described by way of non-limiting examples.
[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 1a and 1d, there are shown sectional
and exploded views, respectively, of a product having an expiration
date packaged with a warning device constructed and operative in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 1b
and 1c are enlarged perspective and front views of the subassembly
marked as detail A in FIG. 1a, respectively. FIG. 1e shows an
isometric view of the subassembly marked as B in FIG. 1a.
[0059] The packaging 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a bottle 12 having
a cap 14. The bottle 12 contains the medicine or food product 10.
An example of a medicine would be eye drops, while an example of a
food product would be salad dressing. An expiration warning device
constructed and operative in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention is assembled within the cap 14, and includes a
plastic adapter 16, a plastic base 26, a pin 24, and the
electronics. The electronics consist of a printed circuit board
(PCB) 22, a chip 28, such as a Chip on Board, a metallic spring 29,
30, 31, a battery 32, a contact 34, a speaker 18, and a speaker
housing 20. The chip 28 is located on the board 22. The contact 34
is shown here as a small sheet metal part in "L" shape, soldered to
the PCB 22. The spring 29,30,31 in the illustrated embodiment is
another sheet metal part, which has a dual function. A. At one end
29, it serves as a battery housing, as it is attached to the PCB
22, and holds the battery 32 in place. B. At its other end 31, it
serves as a switch, as it touches the contact 34 when the pin 24 is
in a down position, and it does not touch the contact 34 when the
pin 24 is in an up position. The spring mid part 30 is a 90.degree.
twisted transition area, because parts 29 and 31 of the spring must
be perpendicular in order to function.
[0060] The pin 24 is placed in a hole in the base 26. The PCB
assembly is inserted into tracks 25, 27 in the base 26, so that the
pin 24 is located underneath the spring 31.
[0061] The adapter 16 places and holds the base 26 in place within
the cap 14. The adapter 16 also places the speaker housing 20 in
its place, adjacent to the cap, centered to the small hole in the
cap 17. The speaker 18 is located in the speaker housing 20, and
wired to the PCB 22.
[0062] When the cap 14 is screwed on the bottle 12, the pin 24 is
pushed, and lifts the spring 31. As a result, there is no contact
between the spring end 31 and the contact 34. This is a "switch
off" position. When the cap 14 is opened (for the purpose of
consuming the contents of the bottle 12), the pin 24 releases
spring 31, which returns to its non-tensed position contacting the
contact 34. This shorts the circuit and switches on the indicating
means. Whenever the switch is on, a signal is sent to the speaker.
The type of signal depends on the time from first opening of the
product. For example, suppose that expiration time is 30 days from
first opening, the signal will be a beep each 4 seconds before 30
days have expired, and continuous annoying beeps after 30 days have
expired.
[0063] In this embodiment, it is the same switching mechanism (pin
24, spring 31, contact 34) which activates both the signaling to
the speaker (each time there is "switch on") and the start of
countdown from the first time of opening the cap (the first time
there is "switch on", i.e., the user opens the cap). In other
embodiments, the countdown trigger may be activated differently,
not with a dual purpose switching mechanism as here, but with a
separate activation device. This would mean an extra switching or
triggering mechanism, yet the chip design might be less expensive.
An example of a separate triggering for first time activation and
for every cap-open signaling is described in the following
embodiment.
[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 2a and 2b, there are shown an
exploded view and an isometric view, respectively, of a warning
device constructed and operative in accordance with another
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2c, shows another
isometric view, similar to FIG. 2b, but with the cover part 102
removed.
[0065] Warning device 80, as shown in FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c, refers
to a label-type device. This means that the device is thin, and
includes an adhesive tape 82 at its bottom. This embodiment is
flat, but a non-flat and\or flexible design is also possible, to
fit the shape of various products' packaging. The printed circuit
board 88 can be a standard epoxy glass or a thin new technology PCB
(made of paper or other material), or any other type of PCB. The
adhesive tape 82 is attached to the bottom of the PCB 88. A thin
cell battery 94 is attached to the PCB by means of the battery
housing 96. A cell battery might be replaced with new technology
power source, such as "power paper", for size minimizing. The chip
on board 92 performs the countdown, as well as sending signals to
the speaker 98.
[0066] This embodiment includes a sensor 90 as the switch mechanism
to start the signaling. Sensor 90 may include a motion sensitive
component. A non limiting example of a motion sensitive component
is a small (typically a 3 mm.times.2 mm.times.1.5 mm size)
component, with two leads. The component shorts the two leads when
moved, shaken or flipped, due to a small moving inertial element
within its packaging. The motion sensor is preferably soldered to
the PCB 82. Thus, the motion sensor shorts a circuit whenever the
product with the device is being moved, and the chip starts sending
signals to the speaker. This means that the speaker 98 provides
signals when a consumer lifts or opens the packaging or attempts to
take a medicine. Another example of a sensor 90 is a sound sensor
which identifies sound or sound frequency of extracting a pill from
a blister pack. Yet another example is a strain sensor (strain
gauge) which identifies deformation of a blister pack. Another
alternative is a sensor that identifies changes in the overall
electrical resistance in the blister pack foil, or any other
physical characteristics of a medicine pack.
[0067] The type of signaling depends on the countdown process
(i.e., depending on whether it is a pre expiration point in time,
or a post expiration point in time). The definition of the point in
time when the countdown begins is achieved by a trigger 84, which
is protected by a plastic or paper strip (tape) 86. The trigger 84
is a metal part assembled on the PCB 88. It is designed to short a
circuit between printed leads 87 and 89. Until activation, the tape
86 is located between the trigger 84 and the leads 87 and 89. This
means that the device has not been activated yet, and countdown has
not started. Once the tape 86 is pulled out, trigger 84 activates
the device.
[0068] If this embodiment is used for a device which is designed to
provide an alert regarding expiration from the manufacturing date,
the tape (strip) 86 should be removed in the factory, and the
countdown starts at approximately the manufacturing date.
[0069] If this embodiment is used for a device which is designed to
provide an alert regarding expiration as measured from the first
time the product is opened, the tape (strip) 86 should be removed
by the consumer, as a part of first time opening the product. This
can be achieved automatically if the strip 86 is attached (e.g.
glued) to a seal of the product (not shown in the figure) or other
packaging element which is moved when the product is opened. When
the consumer tears the seal or moves the element, the strip 86
which is attached to an element of the seal or packaging element
will be extracted together therewith, thus the countdown will
start.
[0070] If the device is designed for dual countdown functionality,
both from manufacturing and from first use, the device might
include two independent triggers. This means that there will be two
separated arrangements of a trigger 84 attached to two leads 87, 89
and an isolating strip 86 in between the trigger and the leads.
(Not shown in the figure). One of them will be activated in the
factory (by pulling its strip), therefore starting the countdown
from manufacturing date. The other will be attached to the seal or
other packaging element of the product, and will be activated when
tearing the packaging, thus activating the second, independent,
countdown from first opening the product.
[0071] The cover 102 is designed to cover the inner structure of
the device. In this embodiment the cover 102 and the speaker
housing 100 are separate parts, but in another embodiment they both
might be a single part.
[0072] Referring now to FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, there are shown
flow charts of the operation of the device, constructed and
operative in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the
present invention. Each of these flow charts or methods of
operation may be used in any of the examples above, or other
applicable embodiments.
[0073] FIG. 3 refers to a device which is designed to indicate only
expiration from first opening, e.g. for a medicine which should not
be used if 30 days from first opening have expired, wherein signals
or an indication are provided after the expiration date of the
product. When opening the cap for the first time, it triggers the
countdown, so that the chip starts timing the 30 day period (block
40). The triggering may be achieved by various triggering and/or
switching mechanisms, as explained above. Optionally, there might
be a special indication, such as a distinguishing sound, to
indicate that the product has been opened for the first time. It
might be a sequence of 3 beep sounds, for example (block 42). This
is a kind of electronic seal-opening or tamper indication: the
consumer knows from this indication that this is the first opening.
If using a speaking device instead, the signal may be the words:
"First open".
[0074] Starting this moment, any time the cap is open (block 44)
and 30 days have not expired yet (block 46), then there will be no
alert signal. When the cap is closed (block 50) and later reopened
(block 44), then again, as long as 30 days have not expired (block
46), there will be no alert signal.
[0075] During this period, when the expiration date has not been
reached, and there is no alert signal, the device may not provide
any signal at all. This is a straight forward design approach, but
it has a severe disadvantage: If the device malfunctions, the
consumer assumes that the product has not expired, because there is
no signal at all. For this reason, it is preferable to provide some
kind of indication also when the product has not expired, for
example, a beep sound every 4 seconds (block 48). Of course, the
signal stops when the user closes the cap (block 52).
[0076] When opening the cap (block 44), and if 30 days from first
opening have passed (block 46), then the device makes an alert
sound, for example, continuous beep sounds. When closing the cap
(block 56), the alert stops (block 58). The consumer should throw
away the product. However, if the consumer does not dispose of the
product, and attempts to use it again sometime (block 60), the
alert sound will signal again (block 54). Of course, if the user
keeps the expired product for a very long time, eventually the
battery will become empty. If the battery is dead and the device
does not function, the user should dump the product as well. This
explains why the use of blocks 48, 52 (signaling for a non-expired
product) is recommended. To summarize: It is safer to have two
types of signaling: A signal for a pre-expiration period (might be
a beep each 4 seconds or a voice saying: "ok to use"), and a
different signal for a post-expiration period (might be continuous
loud high-rate beep alert, or a voice saying "expired . . . expired
. . . expired . . . ).
[0077] While FIG. 3 refers to "switch on" as a cap open, and
"switch off" as a cap closed, it is appreciated that switching the
signaling means can be achieved by various switching types, suited
to the type of product and its packaging. For example, the
switching may be activated by a motion sensor, as explained in the
adhesive label embodiment. In this case, the signal starts once the
sensor identifies a package opening or movement of the product or
extraction of a pill from a blister pack, and the signal lasts as
long as the motion is identified plus, say, 10 seconds.
[0078] While FIG. 3 refers to beep sounds as signals, the signals
may be voice, blinking light, or any other indication.
[0079] The flow chart of FIG. 4 shows an alternative approach of
operation of the device. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the signals
indicate that the product has not expired, while the absence of
signals indicates that the product has expired. As in FIG. 3, FIG.
4 also refers to a device which is designed to indicate only
expiration from first opening, e.g. a medicine which should be
disposed of when 30 days from the first opening have expired.
[0080] When opening the cap for the first time, the countdown is
triggered, so that the chip starts timing the 30 day period (block
40). Optionally, there might be a special sound, or other special
indication, to indicate that the product has been opened for the
first time. It might be a sequence of 3 beep sounds, for example
(block 42).
[0081] Starting this moment, as long as the cap is open (block 44)
and 30 days have not expired yet (block 46), then there will be an
indication or signal, indicating the product can be used (block
62). The indication may be a beep sound each 4 seconds, or a voice
saying "ok to use", or a green light, etc. When the cap is closed
(block 64), the signals stop (block 66). When the cap is reopened
(block 44), and as long as 30 days have not expired yet (block 46),
this indication will be provided (block 62).
[0082] When opening the cap (block 44), and if 30 days from first
opening have passed (block 46), then the device will make no signal
at all. The absence of the signal indicates the user must throw
away the product, and not to use it.
[0083] FIG. 5 refers to a device which is designed to indicate only
expiration from manufacturing date, e.g. a medicine which should be
disposed of 365 days after manufacturing. (e.g. manufacturing date
Jan. 1, 2004 and expiration date Jan. 1, 2005). Since the countdown
is activated in the factory by the manufacturer, no triggering is
required upon first opening. However, optionally a special signal
might be provided upon first opening of the product (block 42).
This could provide a kind of electronic tamper indication.
[0084] The rest of this flow chart is similar to FIG. 2, and has
the same reference numerals, with one difference: instead of
countdown from first opening (FIG. 2 block 46), here the countdown
is since manufacturing (block 47). The rest is the same, regarding
pre expiration signaling (blocks 48, 50, 52), and post expiration
signaling (blocks 54, 56, 58, 60).
[0085] FIG. 6, like FIG. 5, refers to a device which is designed to
indicate only expiration from manufacturing date. Again, countdown
is activated in the factory by the manufacturer, and no triggering
is required when first opening the packaging. The 3 beep sound
indicating first opening is a possible option (block 42). As long
as the cap is open (block 44) and 365 days have not expired yet
(block 47), then there will be a signal, thereby indicating that
the product can be used (block 62). The signal may be a beep sound
each 4 seconds, or a voice saying "ok to use", or a green light,
etc. If the cap is closed (block 64), the signals stop (block 66).
When the cap is reopened (block 44), and as long as 365 days have
not expired yet (block 47), the indication that it is safe to use
the product (block 64) will be provided again.
[0086] When opening the cap (block 44), and if 365 days from first
opening have passed (block 47), then the device will make no signal
at all. The absence of the signal indicates the user should throw
away the product, and not to use it.
[0087] FIG. 7 refers to a device having dual expiration monitoring.
This means that two independent countdowns occur. One countdown is
started by the manufacturer, in the factory (for counting the
general expiration period). The second countdown (block 40), starts
at the moment of first opening the cap (or when tearing a seal).
This is the countdown for expiration from opening. Basically, FIG.
7 is similar to FIG. 3, with one difference. In the FIG. 7
embodiment, the differentiation between pre expiration signaling
(blocks 48, 50, 52) and post expiration signaling (blocks 54, 56,
58, 60) is decided based on two questions, referring to the two
independent countdown processes. The questions are: Has the product
expired due to ending the countdown from the manufacturing date
(block 47) and: Has the product expired due to ending the countdown
from first opening (block 46). (While in FIG. 3 embodiment, the
differentiation between pre expiration signaling (blocks 48, 50,
52) and post expiration signaling (blocks 54, 56, 58, 60) is
decided based on one question only (block 46)). So, FIG. 7 is based
on two independent countdowns, while FIG. 3 is based only on
one.
[0088] FIG. 8, like FIG. 7, refers to a device having dual
expiration monitoring. In all other ways, it is similar to FIG. 4,
but again, with one difference: It refers to two countdown
processes, thus the two questions (block 46, block 47) need to be
answered. If the answer is no to both questions, there will be a
signal (block 64). If the answer is yes to any of the questions (or
to both of them), there will be no signal (block 68) in this
embodiment.
[0089] It will be appreciated that the configuration of the
switching/activating/triggering mechanisms, the PCB, the chip, etc.
is not limited to those illustrated, because the electronics, and
the mechanics (if any), can be implemented in various simple
manners, and may be based on many types of existing technology
and/or components used in many electronic consumer products. The
device of the invention combines inexpensive electronics with a
functional timing program that is for a specific product's
expiration monitoring activity, and combining them in a functional
packaging which can fit the consumed product's packaging. Together,
the result is an effective and innovative high-tech aid. It has a
very high benefit to cost ratio, which makes it disposable. It also
has a very high ratio of benefit to simplicity of use, which makes
it extremely useful and user friendly, as it is totally automatic,
requiring no user setup, and it solves a real need that has not
been solved until now.
[0090] As demonstrated in the various embodiments, different types
of switching may be used: mechanical contact switch, motion
sensitive switch, or any other suitable switch. Another option
would be to use a light sensitive sensor (a standard component that
closes a circuit when exposed to light). In this case, for example,
opening a bottle's cap will expose the sensor to light, thus
activating the indicator. This solution is less useful, because
taking medicine in insufficient lighting will prevent proper
functioning of the device. However, the use of light sensor is
mentioned here to illustrate the variety of technical solutions for
the device. It will also be appreciated that with a specific
electronics/chip design, the same switching element may both
activate countdown from first opening and activate signal sending
whenever the product is reopened. It will also be appreciated that
besides the chip, other electronic parts may be included in the PCB
assembly of some possible embodiments, such as resistors or
capacitors. This is a trivial matter of a PCB assembly design, thus
not detailed here. It will be appreciated that the post expiration
and/or pre expiration signal may be audible or visual. Audible
signals might be beep sounds, tunes (music) or voice (speaking
device). Visual signals might be a constant or blinking light, or a
strip which changes its color after a predefined time. Using a
changing color strip may involve a chemical device, with no PCB, no
battery, and no electronics at all.
[0091] A special feature of the invention is that the special
signaling at the time of the first opening mentioned in some of the
embodiments can be considered as an "electronic" seal, indicating
the lack of tampering. Thus, it may be used to replace the
conventional "physical" seal in some products, and save some
production costs.
[0092] It will be appreciated that the indicator stops providing a
signal automatically after the product is put down or returned to
its packaging (e.g., a bottle cap is closed). Alternatively, the
indicator may provide a signal which stops automatically after a
pre-set signal time.
[0093] The method of a typical use will now be described by way of
several non-limiting examples.
EXAMPLE 1
[0094] A device with expiration alert from first opening, based on
FIG. 3 flow chart [0095] a. Aug. 1, 2004: The consumer buys eyes
drops, instructions are to use within a month from first opening.
[0096] b. Aug. 2, 2004: User A opens the bottle for the first time.
3 beep sounds declare the first opening. As long as user A uses the
product, the cap provides a single beep sound each 5 seconds. When
closing the cap on the bottle, the sound stops. [0097] c. Aug. 10,
2004: User B finds the eye drops in the medicine closet, and wants
to use it. She doesn't know when it was first opened. User B opens
the cap. Since 30 days has not passed yet, there is NO alert. There
is only a single beep sound each 5 seconds. User B now knows that
the product has not expired, thus she uses the eye drops. When
closing the cap on the bottle, the sound stops. [0098] d. Aug. 22,
2004: User A needs to use the product again. It's been quite a long
time and user A cannot remember whether a month has passed since
he'd first opened the bottle, or not. User A opens the cap. He
hears a single beep sound each 5 seconds. He knows that the product
is valid, and uses it. When closing the cap on the bottle, the
sound stops. [0099] e. Sep. 7, 2004: User A needs to use the
product for the third time. Again, he cannot remember whether a
month has passed since he first opened the bottle, or not. He
opened the cap. The cap provides a loud continuous alert sounds in
a rate of 4 beeps per second. User A knows that the product has
expired and must not be used. He does not use it. He closes the
bottle and the alert sound stops. [0100] f. Sep. 20, 2004: User B
needs to use eye drops again. She finds the same bottle in the
medicine cabinet. Apparently, user A has forgotten it there, and
not disposed of it. User B opens the cap. Again, the cap provides a
loud continuous alert sounds in a rate of 4 beeps per second. User
B closes the cap without consuming the product. The alert sound
stops. User B throws away the product.
EXAMPLE 2
[0101] A device with expiration alert from manufacturing date,
based on FIG. 5 flow chart. [0102] a. August 2004: The consumer
buys a bottle with Paracetamol tablets, instructions are to use by
December 2005. [0103] b. September, 2004: User A opens the bottle
for the first time. As long as user A uses the product, the cap
provides a voice message each 5 seconds: "ok to use" "ok to use" .
. . etc. He takes a pill. When closing the cap on the bottle, the
voice stops. [0104] c. March, 2005: User B finds the Paracetamol in
the medicine closet, and wants to use it. She opens the cap. There
is a voice message each 5 seconds: "ok to use". User B now knows
that the product has not expired, thus she takes a pill. When
closing the cap on the bottle, the voice stops. [0105] d. February,
2006: User A needs to use the product again. He opens the cap. He
hears a continuous voice message saying "EXPIRED . . . EXPIRED . .
. EXPIRED". He doesn't use the product. When closing the cap on the
bottle, the sound stops. [0106] e. October, 2006: User B needs to
use the product again. She finds it in the cabinet.
[0107] Apparently, user A has forgotten it there, and not disposed
of it. User B opens the cap. The cap provides no sound whatsoever,
because the battery has run out. User B knows anyway that the
product should be disposed, because she doesn't hear the repetitive
each 5 seconds message "ok to use". She throws away the product to
the garbage.
EXAMPLE 3
[0108] A device with dual expiration alert: from first opening, and
from manufacturing, based on FIG. 8 flow chart [0109] a. Aug. 1,
2004: The consumer buys nose drops, instructions are to use within
a month from first opening, and the general expiration date is Aug.
1, 2005. [0110] b. Sep. 1, 2004: User A opens the bottle for the
first time. 3 beep sounds declare the first opening. As long as
user A uses the product, the cap provides a short 3 seconds melody
tunes each 6 seconds. In addition, the cap provides a green light.
When closing the cap on the bottle, the tunes stop, and the light
turns off [0111] c. Sep. 5, 2004: User B finds the nose drops in
the medicine closet, and wants to use it. She doesn't know when it
was first opened. User B opens the cap. Since 30 days has not
passed yet, AND since the general expiration date from
manufacturing has not passed yet, there is NO alert. There is only
that combination of a melody and a green light. User B now knows
that the product has not expired, thus she uses the nose drops.
When closing the cap on the bottle, the sound and light stop.
[0112] d. Mar. 22, 2005: User A needs to use nose drops. He opens
the bottle. The general expiration date has not passed yet, BUT the
expiration from opening has passed. There is neither sound nor
light. The absence of the signals means that the product has
expired.
EXAMPLE 4
[0113] A device with expiration alert from first opening, based on
FIG. 7 flow chart. [0114] a. Aug. 1, 2004: The consumer buys pills,
instructions are to use within 10 days from first opening. (For
example, the product is sensitive to humidity). The pills packet is
sealed in an aluminum foil bag, preventing humidity from reaching
the medicine. The alert device, in a label configuration, is
attached to the pills packet. [0115] b. Aug. 2, 2004: User A tears
the aluminum bag and pulls out the packet. The label is attached to
the packet, but the triggering strip is attached to the aluminum
bag. Therefore, the strip is extracted from the label and countdown
starts. 3 beep sounds announce the first opening. As long as user A
moves the product, the label provides a single beep sound each 5
seconds. A few seconds after putting the product down, the sound
stops. [0116] c. Aug. 8, 2004: User A wants to take a pill. He
picks up the packet. The label's motion sensor detects the
movement, thus sending a signal to the label's speaker. Since 10
days has not passed yet, there is NO alert. There is only a single
beep sound each 5 seconds. It stops a few seconds after putting
down the packet. [0117] d. Aug. 15, 2004: User A wants to take a
pill. He picks up the packet. The label's motion sensor detects the
movement, thus sending a signal to the label's speaker. Since more
than 10 days have passed from first opening, the label provides a
loud continuous alert sounds in a rate of 4 beeps per second. User
A knows that the product has expired and must not be used.
[0118] While the invention has been described with respect to a
limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many
variations, modifications and other applications of the invention
may be made. It will further be appreciated that the invention is
not limited to what has been described hereinabove merely by way of
example. Rather, the invention is limited solely by the claims
which follow.
* * * * *