U.S. patent application number 16/680554 was filed with the patent office on 2020-10-29 for tracking and delivery confirmation of pharmaceutical products.
The applicant listed for this patent is Proteus Digital Health, Inc.. Invention is credited to Lawrence ARNE, Yashar BEHZADI, Lorenzo DICARLO, Robert DUCK, Gregory MOON, Fataneh OMIDVAR, Todd THOMPSON.
Application Number | 20200342555 16/680554 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004944545 |
Filed Date | 2020-10-29 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200342555 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
THOMPSON; Todd ; et
al. |
October 29, 2020 |
TRACKING AND DELIVERY CONFIRMATION OF PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS
Abstract
A system and method are disclosed that track a deliverable to a
user. The system includes an identifier or tag secured to the
deliverable, a computer system for interrogating the identifier,
and a personal device in communication with the computer system,
wherein the personal device is held by the user at the time the
user is administered the deliverable to detect the unique identity
associated with the identifier device and confirms delivery of the
deliverable to the user. The method includes attaching an
identifiable tag that produces a unique signature to the
deliverable, interrogating the tag at about the time of delivery to
the user, and confirming that the user has been administered the
deliverable through detecting the identifiable tag.
Inventors: |
THOMPSON; Todd; (San Jose,
CA) ; ARNE; Lawrence; (Palo Alto, CA) ;
OMIDVAR; Fataneh; (Danville, CA) ; BEHZADI;
Yashar; (San Francisco, CA) ; DUCK; Robert;
(San Francisco, CA) ; DICARLO; Lorenzo; (San
Francisco, CA) ; MOON; Gregory; (Palo Alto,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Proteus Digital Health, Inc. |
Redwood City |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004944545 |
Appl. No.: |
16/680554 |
Filed: |
November 12, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13698953 |
Nov 19, 2012 |
10529044 |
|
|
PCT/US2011/037236 |
May 19, 2011 |
|
|
|
16680554 |
|
|
|
|
61346035 |
May 19, 2010 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 3/00 20130101; G16H
20/17 20180101; G16H 20/13 20180101; G08C 15/06 20130101; G06Q
50/22 20130101; H04N 7/18 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 50/22 20060101
G06Q050/22; G16H 20/13 20060101 G16H020/13; A61M 3/00 20060101
A61M003/00; G08C 15/06 20060101 G08C015/06; H04N 7/18 20060101
H04N007/18 |
Claims
1. A computer system to track medication from manufacturer to a
patient, to enable a care provider to determine the origin of a
medication and to confirm that at least one of the right type and
the right dosage of the medication was delivered to the patient,
the computer system comprising: a processor operative to: receive a
unique identity of an identifier device secured to a dosage of a
medication, wherein the identifier device comprises the unique
identity that is associated with at least one of the manufacturer
and the medication; receive information from a patient interface
device in communication with the computer and the patient, wherein
at the time the patient takes the medication, the patient interface
device is operative to detect the unique identity associated with
the identifier device and confirm delivery of the medication to the
patient; and receive the detected unique identity associated with
the identifier device detected via the patient interface device and
the confirmation of delivery of the medication to the patient via
the patient interface device; wherein the processor is operative to
confirm the origin of the medication and the type of the medication
based at least on the unique identity of the identifier device.
2. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the processor is
operative to interrogate the identifier device.
3. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the identifier device
comprises a tag provided with circuitry, wherein the tag is secured
to the dosage of the medication, and wherein the processor is
operative to read the unique identity from the tag.
4. The computer system of claim 3, wherein the tag is secured to a
dosage of medication in the form of a pill.
5. The computer system of claim 3, wherein the tag is secured to a
syringe configured for delivery of the dosage of medication,
wherein the syringe comprises a safety component which is activated
upon exposure to air.
6. The computer system of claim 5, wherein the syringe comprises a
needle and wherein the needle comprises at least one contact point
coupled to the tag.
7. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the processor is
operative to communicate with a datacenter database to at least one
of retrieve medical information about the patient and provide
information related to the medication to be administered to the
patient.
8. The computer system of claim 7, wherein the processor is
operative to: communicate with at least one of a database or a
processing system at the datacenter; transmit information to the
processing system; receive information from the processing system,
wherein the processing system is operative to access the
information in the database of the data center and provide the
information to the patient through the computer.
9. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the processor is
operative to validate at least one of the type and dosage selected
by the care provider prior to dispensing the medication to the
patient.
10. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the processor is
operative to communicate with an interrogation unit coupled to the
identifier device, wherein the interrogation unit is operative to
interrogate the identifier device secured to the medication and
receive the unique identity of the identifier device to confirm the
origin of the medication and the type of the medication, wherein
the computer is operative to interrogate the interrogation unit and
receive the unique identity of the identifier from the
interrogation unit.
11. The computer system of claim 10, wherein the processor is
operative to: communicate with a memory of the interrogation unit;
and receive the unique identity of the identifier stored in the
memory of the interrogation unit.
12. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the processor is
operative to receive biometric parameters from the patient
interface device, wherein the biometric parameters can identify the
patient.
13. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the processor is
operative to receive an image of the patient captured by a camera
on the patient interface device.
14. The computer system of claim 1, comprising a display to provide
information associated with the patient, wherein the information
comprises any of an image of the patient, medical history of the
patient, and a next type and dose of medication to deliver to the
patient.
15. A computer-implemented method to track medication from
manufacturer to a patient, to enable a care provider to determine
the origin of a medication and to confirm that at least one of the
right type and the right dosage of the medication was delivered to
the patient, the computer comprising a processor, the method
comprising: receiving by the processor a unique identity of the
identifier device secured to a dosage of medication, wherein the
identifier device comprises the unique identity that is associated
with at least one of the manufacturer and the medication; receiving
by the processor information from a patient interface device in
communication with the computer and the patient, wherein at the
time the patient takes the medication, the patient interface device
is operative to detect the unique identity associated with the
identifier device and confirm delivery of the medication to the
patient; receiving by the processor the detected unique identity
associated with the identifier device detected via the patient
interface device and the confirmation of delivery of the medication
to the patient via the patient interface device; confirming the
origin of the medication and the type of the medication based at
least on the unique identity of the identifier device.
16. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising
interrogating by the processor the identifier device.
17. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising
receiving by the processor the unique identity from a tag, wherein
the identifier device comprises the tag provided with circuitry,
wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the medication, the
method.
18. The computer-implemented method of claim 17, comprising
receiving by the processor the unique identity from the tag,
wherein the tag is secured to a dosage of medication in the form of
a pill.
19. The computer-implemented method of claim 17, comprising
receiving by the processor the unique identity from the tag,
wherein the tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of
the dosage of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety
component which is activated upon exposure to air.
20. The computer-implemented method of claim 19, comprising
receiving by the processor the unique identity from the tag,
wherein the syringe comprises a needle, and wherein the needle
comprises at least one contact point coupled to the tag.
21. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising at
least one of: retrieving by the processor medical information about
the patient from a datacenter database; and providing by the
processor information related to the medication to be administered
to the patient.
22. The computer-implemented method of claim 21, comprising:
transmitting by the processor information to the processing system;
receiving by the processor information from the processing system,
wherein the processing system is operative to access the
information in the database of the data center and provide the
information to the patient through the computer.
23. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising:
validating by the processor at least one of the type and dosage
selected by the care provider prior to dispensing the medication to
the patient.
24. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising:
interrogating by the processor operative an interrogation unit
coupled to the identifier device, wherein the interrogation unit is
operative to interrogate the identifier device secured to the
medication and receive the unique identity of the identifier device
to confirm the origin of the medication and the type of the
medication; and receiving by the computer the unique identity of
the identifier from the interrogation unit.
25. The computer-implemented method of claim 24, comprising:
communicating by the processor with a memory of the interrogation
unit; and receiving by the processor the unique identity of the
identifier stored in the memory of the interrogation unit.
26. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising:
receiving by the processor biometric parameters from the patient
interface device, wherein the biometric parameters can identify the
patient.
27. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising:
receiving by the processor an image of the patient captured by a
camera on the patient interface device.
28. The computer-implemented method of claim 15, comprising:
displaying on a display coupled to the processor information
associated with the patient, wherein the information comprises any
of an image of the patient, medical history of the patient, and a
next type and dose of medication to deliver to the patient.
29. An apparatus, comprising: at least one contact point configured
to electrically engage an identifier device secured to a
medication, wherein the identifier device comprises a unique
identity that is associated with at least one of the manufacturer
and the medication; an interrogation unit coupled to the at least
one contact point, wherein the interrogation unit is operative to
interrogate the identifier device to obtain the unique identity;
and a communication module coupled to the interrogation unit,
wherein the communication module is operative to transmit the
unique identification.
30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the interrogation unit is
operative to read the unique identity associated with the
identifier device.
31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the communication module is
operative to transmit the unique identity associated with the
identifier device to a computer in communication with the
communication module.
32. The apparatus of claim 31, comprising a memory coupled to the
interrogation unit to store the unique identity associated with the
identifier device.
33. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the interrogation unit is
operative to read the unique identity from a tag provided with
circuitry, wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the
medication.
34. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the interrogation unit is
operative to read the unique identity from the tag, wherein the tag
is secured to a dosage of medication in the form of a pill.
35. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the interrogation unit is
operative to read the unique identity from the tag, wherein the tag
is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage of
medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety component which
is activated upon exposure to air.
36. The apparatus of claim 35, wherein the interrogation unit is
operative to read the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
syringe comprises a needle and wherein the needle comprises at
least one contact point coupled to the tag.
37. A method, comprising: electrically engaging by an interrogation
unit an identifier device secured to a medication with at least one
contact point coupled to the interrogation unit, wherein the
identifier device comprises a unique identity that is associated
with at least one of the manufacturer and the medication;
interrogating the identifier device for the unique identity; and
transmitting the unique identification by a communication module
coupled to the interrogation unit.
38. The method of claim 37, comprising reading by the interrogation
unit the unique identity associated with the identifier device.
39. The method of claim 38, comprising transmitting by the
communication module the unique identity associated with the
identifier device to a computer in communication with the
communication module.
40. The method claim 38, storing by the interrogation unit the
unique identity associated with the identifier device in a memory,
wherein the memory is coupled to the interrogation unit.
41. The method of claim 37, the method comprising receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from a tag, wherein the
identifier device comprises the tag provided with circuitry,
wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the medication.
42. The method of claim 37, comprising receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage
of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety component
which is activated upon exposure to air.
43. The method of claim 37, comprising receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage
of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety component
which is activated upon exposure to air.
44. The method of claim 43, comprising receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
syringe comprises a needle, and wherein the needle comprises at
least one contact point coupled to the tag.
45. A patient interface device, comprising: a housing defining an
outer surface, wherein the housing is configured to held by a
patient; at least one contact point exposed on the outer surface
portion of the housing, wherein the at least one contact point is
positioned to be physically contacted by the patient to detect
biometric information associated with the patient, wherein the at
least one contact point is configured to detect at least one
physiological parameter associated with the patient; a control
module coupled to the at least one contact point, wherein the at
least one contact point is coupled to the control module to capture
the at least one physiological parameter associated with the
patient; and a communication module coupled to the control unit to
transmit the at least one physiological parameter to a computer in
communication with the communication module.
46. The patient interface device of claim 45, comprising a power
source coupled to the control module.
47. The patient interface device of claim 45, comprising an image
generation unit to capture an image of the patient, wherein the
image generation unit is coupled to the control module and is
configured to capture the image of the patient and to transmit the
captured image to the control module.
48. The patient interface device of claim 47, wherein the control
module is operative to activate the image generation unit to
capture the image of the patient when the contact point detects
there is a change in the physiological parameter of the patient
during the time the patient is in contact with the contact point
and when the control module detects a current flow through the
patient.
49. A method, comprising: contacting by a patient at least one
contact point exposed on an outer surface portion of a housing,
wherein the at least one contact point is positioned to be
physically contacted by the patient to detect biometric information
associated with the patient, wherein the at least one contact point
is configured to detect at least one physiological parameter
associated with the patient; capturing by a control module coupled
to the at least one contact point at least one physiological
parameter associated with the patient; and transmitting by a
communication module coupled to the control unit the at least one
physiological parameter to a computer in communication with the
communication module.
50. The method of claim 49, comprising: scanning by the at least
contact point a fingerprint associated with the patient; confirming
by the control module fingerprint information.
51. The method of claim 49, comprising: capturing an image of the
patient by an image generation unit, wherein the image generation
unit is coupled to the control module; and transmitting by the
image generation unit the captured image of the patient to the
control module.
52. The method of claim 51, comprising activating by the control
module the image generation unit to capture the image of the
patient when the contact point detects there is a change in the
physiological parameter of the patient during the time the patient
is in contact with the contact point and when the control module
detects a current flow through the patient.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE To RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/346,035 entitled "Tracking and Delivery
Confirmation of Pharmaceutical Products" and filed on May 19, 2010,
which is herein entirely incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is related to electronic systems for
tracking products from manufacturer to consumer and, more
specifically, to multiple devices including a mobile communication
unit and an identifiable tag that is associated with a
pharmaceutical product to confirm source of the dosage, the proper
type and amount of dose, and delivery to the patient.
INTRODUCTION
[0003] In many instances there is a need for tracking
pharmaceutical products from the manufacturer to the patient. In so
doing, the provider or dispenser of the pharmaceutical products is
able to confirm that the pharmaceutical products come from a
reliable source and that the pharmaceutical products are not
counterfeit. Additionally, in many remote areas, where access to
medical facilities is limited, it is often the case wherein the
provider is not able to read or understand information provided on
the label. In such situations, the provider needs a simple and
effective way to identify the patient and determine what medication
should be delivered, especially when there are various medications
from which to choose.
[0004] Thus, what is needed is a system and method that can track
pharmaceutical products from the manufacturer along the supply
chain to the patient as well as confirm actual delivery of the
pharmaceutical products to the patient.
SUMMARY
[0005] The present disclosure includes a system for tracking
pharmaceutical products from manufacturer to the patient. The
present invention also includes systems for confirming delivery of
the pharmaceutical products to the patient; the delivery
confirmation includes systems and methods for confirming delivery
of the right dose and the correct quantity. The present invention
includes systems that include circuitry and components that can
function within certain environments that include a conducting
fluid. One example of such an environment is outside or inside a
container that houses the conducting fluid, such as a sealed bag
with a solution, which includes an IV bag. Another example is
within the body of a living organism, such as an animal or a human.
According to various aspects of the present invention, part of the
system is ingestible or injectible and, hence, can be taken by or
injected to or inhaled by the patient.
[0006] In one aspect, a computer system is provided to track a
medication from manufacturer to a patient, to enable a care
provider to determine the origin of the medication and to confirm
that at least one of the right type and the right dosage of the
medication was delivered to the patient. The computer system
comprising: a processor operative to: receive a unique identity of
an identifier device secured to a dosage of medication, wherein the
identifier device comprises the unique identity that is associated
with at least one of the manufacturer and the medication; receive
information from a patient interface device in communication with
the computer and the patient, wherein at the time the patient takes
the medication, the patient interface device is operative to detect
the unique identity associated with the identifier device and
confirm delivery of the medication to the patient; and receive the
detected unique identity associated with the identifier device
detected via the patient interface device and the confirmation of
delivery of the medication to the patient via the patient interface
device; wherein the processor is operative to confirm the origin of
the medication and the type of the medication based at least on the
unique identity of the identifier device.
[0007] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to interrogate the identifier device.
[0008] In another aspect of the computer system, the identifier
device comprises a tag provided with circuitry, wherein the tag is
secured to the dosage of the medication, and wherein the processor
is operative to read the unique identity from the tag.
[0009] In another aspect of the computer system, the tag is secured
to a dosage of medication in the form of a pill.
[0010] In another aspect of the computer system, the tag is secured
to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage of medication,
wherein the syringe comprises a safety component which is activated
upon exposure to air.
[0011] In another aspect of the computer system, the syringe
comprises a needle and wherein the needle comprises at least one
contact point coupled to the tag.
[0012] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to communicate with a datacenter database to at least one
of retrieve medical information about the patient and provide
information related to the medication to be administered to the
patient.
[0013] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to: communicate with at least one of a database or a
processing system at the datacenter; transmit information to the
processing system; receive information from the processing system,
wherein the processing system is operative to access the
information in the database of the data center and provide the
information to the patient through the computer.
[0014] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to validate at least one of the type and dosage selected
by the care provider prior to dispensing the medication to the
patient.
[0015] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to communicate with an interrogation unit coupled to the
identifier device, wherein the interrogation unit is operative to
interrogate the identifier device secured to the medication and
receive the unique identity of the identifier device to confirm the
origin of the medication and the type of the medication, wherein
the computer is operative to interrogate the interrogation unit and
receive the unique identity of the identifier from the
interrogation unit.
[0016] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to: communicate with a memory of the interrogation unit;
and receive the unique identity of the identifier stored in the
memory of the interrogation unit.
[0017] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to receive biometric parameters from the patient
interface device, wherein the biometric parameters can identify the
patient.
[0018] In another aspect of the computer system, the processor is
operative to receive an image of the patient captured by a camera
on the patient interface device.
[0019] In another aspect of the computer system, a display provides
information associated with the patient, wherein the information
comprises any of an image of the patient, medical history of the
patient, and a next type and dose of medication to deliver to the
patient.
[0020] In one aspect, a computer-implemented method is provided to
track a medication from manufacturer to a patient, to enable a care
provider to determine the origin of the medication and to confirm
that at least one of the right type and the right dosage of
medication was delivered to the patient, the computer comprising a
processor. The method comprising: receiving by the processor a
unique identity of the identifier device secured to a dosage of
medication, wherein the identifier device comprises the unique
identity that is associated with at least one of the manufacturer
and the medication; receiving by the processor information from a
patient interface device in communication with the computer and the
patient, wherein at the time the patient takes the medication, the
patient interface device is operative to detect the unique identity
associated with the identifier device and confirm delivery of the
medication to the patient; receiving by the processor the detected
unique identity associated with the identifier device detected from
the patient interface device and the confirmation of delivery of
the medication to the patient from the patient interface device;
and confirming the origin of the medication and the type of the
medication based at least on the unique identity of the identifier
device.
[0021] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
interrogating by the processor the identifier device.
[0022] In another, the computer-implemented method comprises
receiving by the processor the unique identity from a tag, wherein
the identifier device comprises the tag provided with circuitry,
wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the medication, the
method.
[0023] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
receiving by the processor the unique identity from the tag,
wherein the tag is secured to a dosage of medication in the form of
a pill.
[0024] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
receiving by the processor the unique identity from the tag,
wherein the tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of
the dosage of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety
component which is activated upon exposure to air.
[0025] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
receiving by the processor the unique identity from the tag,
wherein the syringe comprises a needle, and wherein the needle
comprises at least one contact point coupled to the tag.
[0026] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
at least one of: retrieving by the processor medical information
about the patient from a datacenter database; and providing by the
processor information related to the medication to be administered
to the patient.
[0027] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
transmitting by the processor information to the processing system;
receiving by the processor information from the processing system,
wherein the processing system is operative to access the
information in the database of the data center and provide the
information to the patient through the computer.
[0028] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
validating by the processor at least one of the type and dosage
selected by the care provider prior to dispensing the medication to
the patient.
[0029] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
interrogating by the processor operative an interrogation unit
coupled to the identifier device, wherein the interrogation unit is
operative to interrogate the identifier device secured to a
medication and receive the unique identity of the identifier device
to confirm the origin of the medication and the type of the
medication; and receiving by the computer the unique identity of
the identifier from the interrogation unit.
[0030] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
communicating by the processor with a memory of the interrogation
unit; and receiving by the processor the unique identity of the
identifier stored in the memory of the interrogation unit.
[0031] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
receiving by the processor biometric parameters from the patient
interface device, wherein the biometric parameters can identify the
patient.
[0032] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
receiving by the processor an image of the patient captured by a
camera on the patient interface device.
[0033] In another aspect, the computer-implemented method comprises
displaying on a display coupled to the processor information
associated with the patient, wherein the information comprises any
of an image of the patient, medical history of the patient, and a
next type and dose of medication to deliver to the patient.
[0034] In one aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus
comprising: at least one contact point configured to electrically
engage an identifier device secured to a medication, wherein the
identifier device comprises a unique identity that is associated
with at least one of the manufacturer and the medication; an
interrogation unit coupled to the at least one contact point,
wherein the interrogation unit is operative to interrogate the
identifier device to obtain the unique identity; and a
communication module coupled to the interrogation unit, wherein the
communication module is operative to transmit the unique
identification.
[0035] In another aspect of the apparatus, the interrogation unit
is operative to read the unique identity associated with the
identifier device.
[0036] In another aspect, the communication module is operative to
transmit the unique identity associated with the identifier device
to a computer in communication with the communication module.
[0037] In another aspect of the apparatus, the apparatus comprises
a memory coupled to the interrogation unit to store the unique
identity associated with the identifier device.
[0038] In another aspect, the interrogation unit is operative to
read the unique identity from a tag provided with circuitry,
wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the medication.
[0039] In another aspect of the apparatus, the interrogation unit
is operative to read the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
tag is secured to a dosage of medication in the form of a pill.
[0040] In another aspect of the apparatus, the interrogation unit
is operative to read the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage
of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety component
which is activated upon exposure to air.
[0041] In another aspect of the apparatus, the interrogation unit
is operative to read the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
syringe comprises a needle and wherein the needle comprises at
least one contact point coupled to the tag.
[0042] In one aspect, a method is provided. The method comprising:
electrically engaging by an interrogation unit an identifier device
secured to a medication with at least one contact point coupled to
the interrogation unit, wherein the identifier device comprises a
unique identity that is associated with at least one of the
manufacturer and the medication; interrogating the identifier
device for the unique identity; and transmitting the unique
identification by a communication module coupled to the
interrogation unit.
[0043] In another aspect, the method comprises reading by the
interrogation unit the unique identity associated with the
identifier device.
[0044] In another aspect, the method comprises transmitting by the
communication module the unique identity associated with the
identifier device to a computer in communication with the
communication module.
[0045] In another aspect, the method comprises storing by the
interrogation unit the unique identity associated with the
identifier device in a memory, wherein the memory is coupled to the
interrogation unit.
[0046] In another aspect, the method comprises receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from a tag, wherein the
identifier device comprises the tag provided with circuitry,
wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the medication.
[0047] In another aspect, the method comprises receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage
of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety component
which is activated upon exposure to air.
[0048] In another aspect, the method comprises receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage
of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety component
which is activated upon exposure to air.
[0049] In another aspect, the method comprises receiving by the
interrogation unit the unique identity from the tag, wherein the
syringe comprises a needle, and wherein the needle comprises at
least one contact point coupled to the tag.
[0050] In one aspect, a patient interface device is provided. The
patient interface comprising: a housing defining an outer surface,
wherein the housing is configured to held by a patient; at least
one contact point exposed on the outer surface portion of the
housing, wherein the at least one contact point is positioned to be
physically contacted by the patient to detect biometric information
associated with the patient, wherein the at least one contact point
is configured to detect at least one physiological parameter
associated with the patient; a control module coupled to the at
least one contact point, wherein the at least one contact point is
coupled to the control module to capture the at least one
physiological parameter associated with the patient; and a
communication module coupled to the control unit to transmit the at
least one physiological parameter to a computer in communication
with the communication module.
[0051] In another aspect of the patient interface device, the
patient interface device comprises a power source coupled to the
control module.
[0052] In another aspect of the patient interface device, the
patient interface device comprises an image generation unit to
capture an image of the patient, wherein the image generation unit
is coupled to the control module and is configured to capture the
image of the patient and to transmit the captured image to the
control module.
[0053] In another aspect of the patient interface device, the
control module is operative to activate the image generation unit
to capture the image of the patient when the contact point detects
there is a change in the physiological parameter of the patient
during the time the patient is in contact with the contact point
and when the control module detects a current flow through the
patient.
[0054] In one aspect, a method is provided. The method comprising:
contacting by a patient at least one contact point exposed on an
outer surface portion of a housing, wherein the at least one
contact point is positioned to be physically contacted by the
patient to detect biometric information associated with the
patient, wherein the at least one contact point is configured to
detect at least one physiological parameter associated with the
patient; capturing by a control module coupled to the at least one
contact point at least one physiological parameter associated with
the patient; and transmitting by a communication module coupled to
the control unit the at least one physiological parameter to a
computer in communication with the communication module.
[0055] In another aspect, the method comprises scanning by the at
least contact point a fingerprint associated with the patient;
confirming by the control module fingerprint information.
[0056] In another aspect, the method comprises capturing an image
of the patient by an image generation unit, wherein the image
generation unit is coupled to the control module; and transmitting
by the image generation unit the captured image of the patient to
the control module.
[0057] In another aspect, the method comprises activating by the
control module the image generation unit to capture the image of
the patient when the contact point detects there is a change in the
physiological parameter of the patient during the time the patient
is in contact with the contact point and when the control module
detects a current flow through the patient.
[0058] In one aspect, a patient interface device is provided. The
patient interface device comprising: a housing defining an outer
surface, wherein the housing is configured to held by a patient; at
least one contact point exposed on the outer surface portion of the
housing, wherein the at least one contact point is positioned to be
physically contacted by the patient to detect biometric information
associated with the patient, wherein the at least one contact point
is configured to detect at least one physiological parameter
associated with the patient; a control module coupled to the at
least one contact point, wherein the at least one contact point is
coupled to the control module to capture the at least one
physiological parameter associated with the patient; and a
communication module coupled to the control unit to transmit the at
least one physiological parameter to a computer in communication
with the communication module.
[0059] In another aspect, the patient interface device comprises a
power source coupled to the control module.
[0060] In another aspect, the patient interface device comprises an
image generation unit to capture an image of the patient, wherein
the image generation unit is coupled to the control module and is
configured to capture the image of the patient and to transmit the
captured image to the control module.
[0061] In another aspect of the patient interface device, the
control module is operative to activate the image generation unit
to capture the image of the patient when the contact point detects
there is a change in the physiological parameter of the patient
during the time the patient is in contact with the contact point
and when the control module detects a current flow through the
patient.
[0062] In one aspect, a method is provided. The method comprising:
contacting by a patient at least one contact point exposed on an
outer surface portion of a housing, wherein the at least one
contact point is positioned to be physically contacted by the
patient to detect biometric information associated with the
patient, wherein the at least one contact point is configured to
detect at least one physiological parameter associated with the
patient; capturing by a control module coupled to the at least one
contact point at least one physiological parameter associated with
the patient; and transmitting by a communication module coupled to
the control unit the at least one physiological parameter to a
computer in communication with the communication module.
[0063] In another aspect, the method comprises scanning by the at
least contact point a fingerprint associated with the patient;
confirming by the control module fingerprint information.
[0064] In another aspect, the method comprises capturing an image
of the patient by an image generation unit, wherein the image
generation unit is coupled to the control module; and transmitting
by the image generation unit the captured image of the patient to
the control module.
[0065] In another aspect, the method comprises activating by the
control module the image generation unit to capture the image of
the patient when the contact point detects there is a change in the
physiological parameter of the patient during the time the patient
is in contact with the contact point and when the control module
detects a current flow through the patient.
[0066] Notwithstanding the claims and the above aspects of the
present invention, in various other aspects, the present invention
also may be defined by the following clauses: [0067] 1. A computer
system to track medication from manufacturer to a patient, to
enable a care provider to determine the origin of the medication
and to confirm that at least one of the right type and the right
dosage of medication was delivered to the patient, the computer
system comprising:
[0068] a processor operative to: [0069] receive a unique identity
of an identifier device secured to a dosage of medication to
confirm the origin of the medication and the type of the
medication, wherein the identifier device comprises the unique
identity that is associated with at least one of the manufacturer
and the medication; [0070] receive information from a patient
interface device in communication with the computer and the
patient, wherein at the time the patient takes the medication, the
patient interface device is operative to detect the unique identity
associated with the identifier device and confirm delivery of the
medication to the patient; and [0071] receive the detected unique
identity associated with the identifier device detected from the
patient interface device and the confirmation of delivery of the
medication to the patient from the patient interface device. [0072]
2. The computer system of clause 1, wherein the processor is
operative to interrogate the identifier device. [0073] 3. The
computer system of clause 1 or 2, wherein the identifier device
comprises a tag provided with circuitry, wherein the tag is secured
to the dosage of the medication, and wherein the processor is
operative to read the unique identity from the tag. [0074] 4. The
computer system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the tag is
secured to a dosage of medication in the form of a pill. [0075] 5.
The computer system of any of the preceding clauses 1-3, wherein
the tag is secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the
dosage of medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety
component which is activated upon exposure to air. [0076] 6. The
computer system of clause 5, wherein the syringe comprises a needle
and wherein the needle comprises at least one contact point coupled
to the tag. [0077] 7. The computer system according to any of the
preceding clauses wherein the processor is operative to communicate
with a datacenter database to at least one of retrieve medical
information about the patient and provide information related to
the medication to be administered to the patient. [0078] 8. The
computer system of clause 7, wherein the processor is operative
to:
[0079] communicate with at least one of a database or a processing
system at the datacenter;
[0080] transmit information to the processing system;
[0081] receive information from the processing system, wherein the
processing system is operative to access the information in the
database of the data center and provide the information to the
patient through the computer. [0082] 9. The computer system
according to any of the preceding clauses wherein the processor is
operative to validate at least one of the type and dosage selected
by the care provider prior to dispensing the medication to the
patient. [0083] 10. The computer system according to any of the
preceding clauses wherein the processor is operative to communicate
with an interrogation unit coupled to the identifier device,
wherein the interrogation unit is operative to interrogate the
identifier device secured to the medication and receive the unique
identity of the identifier device to confirm the origin of the
medication and the type of the medication, wherein the computer is
operative to interrogate the interrogation unit and receive the
unique identity of the identifier from the interrogation unit.
[0084] 11. The computer system of clause 10, wherein the processor
is operative to:
[0085] communicate with a memory of the interrogation unit; and
[0086] receive the unique identity of the identifier stored in the
memory of the interrogation unit. [0087] 12. The computer system
according to any of the preceding clauses wherein the processor is
operative to receive biometric parameters from the patient
interface device, wherein the biometric parameters can identify the
patient, or wherein the processor is operative to receive an image
of the patient captured by a camera on the patient interface
device. [0088] 13. The computer system according to any of the
preceding clauses comprising a display to provide information
associated with the patient, wherein the information comprises any
of an image of the patient, medical history of the patient, and a
next type and dose of medication to deliver to the patient. [0089]
14. A computer-implemented method to track medication from
manufacturer to a patient, which preferably uses a computer system
according to any of the preceding clauses, to enable a care
provider to determine the origin of the medication and to confirm
that at least one of the right type and the right dosage of
medication was delivered to the patient, the computer comprising a
processor, the method comprising:
[0090] receiving by the processor a unique identity of the
identifier device secured to a dosage of medication to confirm the
origin of the medication and the type of the medication, wherein
the identifier device comprises the unique identity that is
associated with at least one of the manufacturer and the
medication;
[0091] receiving by the processor information from a patient
interface device in communication with the computer and the
patient, wherein at the time the patient takes the medication, the
patient interface device is operative to detect the unique identity
associated with the identifier device and confirm delivery of the
medication to the patient; and
[0092] receiving by the processor the detected unique identity
associated with the identifier device detected from the patient
interface device and the confirmation of delivery of the medication
to the patient from the patient interface device. [0093] 15. The
computer-implemented method of clause 15, comprising interrogating
by the processor the identifier device. [0094] 16. The
computer-implemented method of clause 14 or 15, comprising
receiving by the processor the unique identity from a tag, wherein
the identifier device comprises the tag provided with circuitry,
wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the medication, the
method. [0095] 17. The computer-implemented method of clause 16,
comprising receiving by the processor the unique identity from the
tag, wherein the tag is secured to a dosage of medication in the
form of a pill or wherein the tag is secured to a syringe
configured for delivery of the dosage of medication, wherein the
syringe comprises a safety component which is activated upon
exposure to air, preferably comprising receiving by the processor
the unique identity from the tag, wherein the syringe comprises a
needle, and wherein the needle comprises at least one contact point
coupled to the tag. [0096] 18. The computer-implemented according
to any of the clauses 14-17 comprising at least one of:
[0097] retrieving by the processor medical information about the
patient from a datacenter database; and
[0098] providing by the processor information related to the
medication to be administered to the patient. [0099] 19. The
computer-implemented method of clause 18, comprising:
[0100] transmitting by the processor information to the processing
system;
[0101] receiving by the processor information from the processing
system, wherein the processing system is operative to access the
information in the database of the data center and provide the
information to the patient through the computer. [0102] 20. The
computer-implemented method according to any of the clauses 14-19,
comprising:
[0103] validating by the processor at least one of the type and
dosage selected by the care provider prior to dispensing the
medication to the patient. [0104] 21. The computer-implemented
method according to any of the clauses 14-20 comprising:
[0105] interrogating by the processor operative an interrogation
unit coupled to the identifier device, wherein the interrogation
unit is operative to interrogate the identifier device secured to
the medication and receive the unique identity of the identifier
device to confirm the origin of the medication and the type of the
medication; and
[0106] receiving by the computer the unique identity of the
identifier from the interrogation unit. [0107] 22. The
computer-implemented method of clause 21, comprising:
[0108] communicating by the processor with a memory of the
interrogation unit; and
[0109] receiving by the processor the unique identity of the
identifier stored in the memory of the interrogation unit. [0110]
23. The computer-implemented method according to any of the clauses
14-22 comprising:
[0111] receiving by the processor biometric parameters from the
patient interface device, wherein the biometric parameters can
identify the patient. [0112] 24. The computer-implemented method
according to any of the clauses 14-23 comprising:
[0113] receiving by the processor an image of the patient captured
by a camera on the patient interface device. [0114] 25. The
computer-implemented method according to any of the clauses 14-24
comprising:
[0115] displaying on a display coupled to the processor information
associated with the patient, wherein the information comprises any
of an image of the patient, medical history of the patient, and a
next type and dose of medication to deliver to the patient. [0116]
26. An apparatus, comprising:
[0117] at least one contact point configured to electrically engage
an identifier device secured to a medication, wherein the
identifier device comprises a unique identity that is associated
with at least one of the manufacturer and the medication;
[0118] an interrogation unit coupled to the at least one contact
point, wherein the interrogation unit is operative to interrogate
the identifier device to obtain the unique identity; and
[0119] a communication module coupled to the interrogation unit,
wherein the communication module is operative to transmit the
unique identification. [0120] 27. The apparatus of clause 26,
wherein the interrogation unit is operative to read the unique
identity associated with the identifier device. [0121] 28. The
apparatus of clause 26 or 27 wherein the communication module is
operative to transmit the unique identity associated with the
identifier device to a computer in communication with the
communication module. [0122] 29. The apparatus according to any of
the clauses 26-28 comprising a memory coupled to the interrogation
unit to store the unique identity associated with the identifier
device. [0123] 30. The apparatus according to any of the clauses
26-29 wherein the interrogation unit is operative to read the
unique identity from a tag provided with circuitry, wherein the tag
is secured to the dosage of the medication, preferably wherein the
interrogation unit is operative to read the unique identity from
the tag, wherein the tag is secured to a dosage of medication in
the form of a pill, or wherein the interrogation unit is operative
to read the unique identity from the tag, wherein the tag is
secured to a syringe configured for delivery of the dosage of
medication, wherein the syringe comprises a safety component which
is activated upon exposure to air, preferably wherein the syringe
comprises a needle and wherein the needle comprises at least one
contact point coupled to the tag. [0124] 31. A method,
comprising:
[0125] electrically engaging by an interrogation unit an identifier
device secured to a medication with at least one contact point
coupled to the interrogation unit, wherein the identifier device
comprises a unique identity that is associated with at least one of
the manufacturer and the medication;
[0126] interrogating the identifier device for the unique identity;
and
[0127] transmitting the unique identification by a communication
module coupled to the interrogation unit. [0128] 32. The method of
clause 31, comprising reading by the interrogation unit the unique
identity associated with the identifier device. [0129] 33. The
method of clause 31 or 32 comprising transmitting by the
communication module the unique identity associated with the
identifier device to a computer in communication with the
communication module. [0130] 34. The method according to any of the
clauses 31-33 comprising storing by the interrogation unit the
unique identity associated with the identifier device in a memory,
wherein the memory is coupled to the interrogation unit. [0131] 35.
The method according to any of the clauses 31-34 comprising
receiving by the interrogation unit the unique identity from a tag,
wherein the identifier device comprises the tag provided with
circuitry, wherein the tag is secured to the dosage of the
medication. [0132] 36. The method of clause 35, comprising
receiving by the interrogation unit the unique identity from the
tag, wherein the tag is secured to a syringe configured for
delivery of the dosage of medication, wherein the syringe comprises
a safety component which is activated upon exposure to air,
preferably wherein the syringe comprises a needle, and wherein the
needle comprises at least one contact point coupled to the tag.
[0133] 37. A patient interface device, comprising:
[0134] a housing defining an outer surface, wherein the housing is
configured to held by a patient;
[0135] at least one contact point exposed on the outer surface
portion of the housing, wherein the at least one contact point is
positioned to be physically contacted by the patient to detect
biometric information associated with the patient, wherein the at
least one contact point is configured to detect at least one
physiological parameter associated with the patient;
[0136] a control module coupled to the at least one contact point,
wherein the at least one contact point is coupled to the control
module to capture the at least one physiological parameter
associated with the patient; and
[0137] a communication module coupled to the control unit to
transmit the at least one physiological parameter to a computer in
communication with the communication module. [0138] 38. The patient
interface device of clause 37, comprising a power source coupled to
the control module. [0139] 39. The patient interface device of
clause 37 or 38 comprising an image generation unit to capture an
image of the patient, wherein the image generation unit is coupled
to the control module and is configured to capture the image of the
patient and to transmit the captured image to the control module.
[0140] 40. The patient interface device according to any of the
clauses 37-39 wherein the control module is operative to activate
the image generation unit to capture the image of the patient when
the contact point detects there is a change in the physiological
parameter of the patient during the time the patient is in contact
with the contact point and when the control module detects a
current flow through the patient. [0141] 41. A method,
comprising:
[0142] contacting by a patient at least one contact point exposed
on an outer surface portion of a housing, wherein the at least one
contact point is positioned to be physically contacted by the
patient to detect biometric information associated with the
patient, wherein the at least one contact point is configured to
detect at least one physiological parameter associated with the
patient;
[0143] capturing by a control module coupled to the at least one
contact point at least one physiological parameter associated with
the patient; and
[0144] transmitting by a communication module coupled to the
control unit the at least one physiological parameter to a computer
in communication with the communication module. [0145] 42. The
method of clause 41, comprising:
[0146] scanning by the at least contact point a fingerprint
associated with the patient;
[0147] confirming by the control module fingerprint information.
[0148] 43. The method of clause 41 or 42, comprising:
[0149] capturing an image of the patient by an image generation
unit, wherein the image generation unit is coupled to the control
module; and
[0150] transmitting by the image generation unit the captured image
of the patient to the control module. [0151] 44. The method
according to any of the clauses 41-43 comprising activating by the
control module the image generation unit to capture the image of
the patient when the contact point detects there is a change in the
physiological parameter of the patient during the time the patient
is in contact with the contact point and when the control module
detects a current flow through the patient. [0152] 45. System for
tracking a product from a manufacturer along a supply chain to a
user, the system comprising: [0153] Identifying means associated
with the product for identifying the product, [0154] Interrogating
means for interrogating the identifying means. [0155] 46. System
according to clause 45 wherein the product is a medicine and the
user is a patient, wherein the system enables a care provider to
determine the origin of the medicine. [0156] 47. System according
to clause 45 or 46, further comprising patient communication means
for communicating identity of the medicine to the patient. [0157]
48. System according to any of the preceding clauses 45-47 wherein
the identifying means comprises a device secured to the product.
[0158] 49. System according to clause 48, wherein the identifying
means has a unique identity associated with the manufacturer and/or
the product. [0159] 50. System according to any of the preceding
clauses 46-49 wherein the system confirms that a correct dosage
and/or correct type of medication was delivered to the patient.
[0160] 51. System according to any of the preceding clauses 45-50
wherein the interrogating means comprises a computer system which
reads the unique identity of the identifying means. [0161] 52.
System according to clause 51 wherein the computer system
communicates with a database to retrieve user information and/or
product information. [0162] 53. System according to clauses 52
wherein the user information is patient information, and wherein
the product information is information related to the medicament to
be administered to the patient. [0163] 54. System according to any
of the clauses 51-53 wherein the computer system validates at least
one of the type and dosage prior to dispensing. [0164] 55. System
according to any of the preceding clauses 47-54, wherein the
patient communication means is configured to be in physical
communication with the patient at the time the patient takes the
medication, and is in communication with the computer system, the
patient communication means being a personal device which detects
the unique identity of the identifying means and confirms delivery
of the product. [0165] 56. System according to any of the preceding
clauses 45-55 wherein the identifying means is a tag provided with
circuitry, which tag is secured to a pill, and which circuitry is
broken if the tag is removed from the pill. [0166] 57. System
according to any of the preceding clauses 45-55 wherein the
identifying means is a tag, which tag is secured to a syringe,
wherein the tag and/or syringe comprises a safety component which
is activated on exposure to air. [0167] 58. System according to
clauses 56 or 57 wherein the tag cannot be interrogated if the
medicament is not delivered within a pre-determined time period.
[0168] 59. System according to clauses 57 or 58 wherein a needle of
the syringe includes a contact point connected to the tag. [0169]
60. An interface device for confirming delivery of medication to a
patient, preferably for use in a system according to any of the
preceding clauses 45-59, the device comprising: a control module,
wherein the control modules includes a communication module and a
memory unit;
[0170] a contact point to detect at least one physiological
parameter associated with the patient, wherein the contact point is
connected to the control module and captures at least one
physiological parameter associated with the patient and transmits
that information to the patient; and
[0171] an image generation unit to capture the patient's image,
wherein the image generation unit is connected to the control
module and captures the image of the patient and transmits the
image to the control module,
[0172] wherein the control module activates the image generation
unit to capture the image of the patient when the contact point
detects there is a change in the physiological parameter of the
patient during the time the patient is in contact with the contact
point and when the control module detects a current flow through
the patient. [0173] 61. System according to any of the preceding
clauses 45-59, further comprising a device according to clause 60.
[0174] 62. Method for tracking a product from a manufacturer along
a supply chain to a user comprising the steps of attaching
identifying means to a product, and interrogating the identifying
means. [0175] 63. Method according to clause 62 further comprising
the step of confirming receipt of the product to the user. [0176]
64. Method according to clause 62 or 63 using a system, device or
apparatus according to any of the preceding. [0177] 65. A pill
comprising a tag, which tag is provided with circuitry. [0178] 66.
A syringe comprising a tag, wherein the tag and/or syringe
comprises a safety component which is activated on exposure to air.
[0179] 67. System to track medication from manufacturer to a
patient, to enable a care provider to determine the origin of the
medication and to confirm that at least one of the right type and
the right dosage of medication was delivered to the patient, the
system comprising: an identifier device secured to the medication,
wherein the identifier device has a unique identity that is
associated with at least one of the manufacturer and the
medication;
[0180] a computer system for interrogating the identifier
device,
[0181] wherein the computer system reads the unique identity of the
identifier device to confirm the origin of the medication and the
type of the medication and
[0182] wherein the computer system communicates with a database to
at least one of retrieve medical information about the patient and
provide information related to the medication to be administered to
the patient and
[0183] wherein the computer system validates at least one of the
type and dosage selected by the care provider prior to dispensing
to the patient; and
[0184] a personal device in communication with the computer system,
wherein the personal device is configured to be in physical
communication with the patient at the time the patient takes the
medication to detect the unique identity associated with the
identifier device and confirm delivery of the medication to the
patient. [0185] 68. Method to track and guide a care provider to
deliver a proper type and dose of medication to a patient such that
a care provider confirms that the medication is traceable to a
known origin, the method comprising the steps of:
[0186] attaching an identifiable tag that produces a unique
signature to the medication at the origin when the medication is
created;
[0187] interrogating the tag at about the time of delivery to the
patient to determine if the medication is the original medication
and to confirm that that the correct medication has been selected
for the patient; and
[0188] confirming that the patient has taken or received the
medication through detecting the identifiable tag's unique
signature through the patient's body based on communication of the
identifiable tag with the patient. [0189] 69. System to track a
deliverable to a user, the system comprising:
[0190] an identifier device secured to the deliverable, wherein the
identifier device has a unique identity that is associated with the
deliverable;
[0191] a computer system for interrogating the identifier
device,
[0192] wherein the computer system identifies the identifier device
to confirm information associated with the deliverable and
[0193] wherein the computer system communicates with a database to
at least one of retrieve information associated with the user and
provide a care provider with the information associated with the
deliverable to be administered to the user and
[0194] wherein the computer system validates the information
associated with the deliverable provided by the care provider prior
to administration to the user; and
[0195] a personal device in communication with the computer system,
wherein the personal device is configured to be held by the user at
the time the user is administered the deliverable to detect the
unique identity associated with the identifier device and to
confirm delivery of the deliverable to the user. [0196] 70. Method
to track and guide a care provider to deliver a deliverable to a
user such that the care provider can confirm that the deliverable
is traceable to a known origin, the method comprising the steps
of:
[0197] providing an identifiable tag that produces a unique
signature, the identifiable tag physically associated with the
deliverable;
[0198] interrogating an identifiable tag associated with the
deliverable at about the time of delivery to the user to determine
if the deliverable is the intended deliverable and confirm that the
care provider has selected the correct deliverable; and
[0199] confirming that the user has been administered the
deliverable through detecting the identifiable tag's unique
signature based on contact of the identifiable tag with the user.
[0200] 71. Interface device for confirming delivery of medication
to a patient, the device comprising:
[0201] a control module, wherein the control modules includes a
communication module and a memory unit;
[0202] a contact point to detect at least one physiological
parameter associated with the patient, wherein the contact point is
connected to the control module and captures at least one
physiological parameter associated with the patient and transmits
that information to the patient; and
[0203] an image generation unit to capture the patient's image,
wherein the image generation unit is connected to the control
module and captures the image of the patient and transmits the
image to the control module,
[0204] wherein the control module activates the image generation
unit to capture the image of the patient when the contact point
detects there is a change in the physiological parameter of the
patient during the time the patient is in contact with the contact
point and when the control module detects a current flow through
the patient.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0205] FIG. 1 shows a system for tracking medication from origin to
patient as well as confirmation of delivery of the correct type and
dose of medication.
[0206] FIG. 2A shows a needle of a syringe used for delivery of
medication in accordance with one aspect of the present
invention.
[0207] FIG. 2B shows a needle of a syringe used for delivery of
medication in accordance with another aspect of the present
invention.
[0208] FIG. 2C shows a cut-away section of a sleeve for holding the
syringe of FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B in accordance with an aspect of the
present invention.
[0209] FIG. 3 shows a functional block diagram representation of an
identity confirmation device as used in FIG. 1 in accordance with
one aspect of the present invention.
[0210] FIG. 4 shows one aspect of a tag.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0211] Referring now to FIG. 1, a system 10 includes a device 40, a
mobile computer 50, and a patient identity confirmation device 70.
The system 10 communicates with a central data center 80. In
accordance with various aspects of the present invention, there are
at least two methods disclosed for delivery of medication: a pill
20 and a syringe 30. However, the scope of the present invention is
not limited by delivery methods used. For example, the medication
may be delivered by a patch, an inhaler, or an ointment. Further,
the term "pill" includes various form factors of ingestible
medicaments and carriers, e.g., capsules, gel caps, placebos, over
capsulation carriers or vehicles, etc. In the event a patch is
used, then the tag can be secured to the patch. If an ointment is
used, then the tag may be included with ointment and delivery and
tracking can be confirmed once the ointment is applied. At the
origin or location of manufacturing of the medication, an
identifiable tag is associated with the medication regardless of
the type of medication or method of delivery/dispensing of the
medication to the patient. The identifiable tag is similar to an
ingestible event marker or an ionic emission module (IEM). The IEM
can be ingested and is capable of providing an identifiable
signature and is unique. The IEM is disclosed in greater detail in
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/564,017 entitled COMMUNICATION
SYSTEM WITH PARTIAL POWER SOURCE filed on Sep. 21, 2009, and
published as 2010-0081894 A1 dated Apr. 1, 2010, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0212] In accordance with other aspects of the present invention,
the identifiable tags may include bar codes on packaging that
uniquely identify the medication in the package, which package
includes tamper proof seals. Thus the care provider would use the
mobile computer 50 to scan the bar code or capture an image of the
bar code that is transmitted to the data center 80 for
confirmation.
[0213] With respect to the pill 20, an identifiable tag 22 is shown
secured to one side of the pill 20. Surrounding the tag 22 is a
conducting surface 24. One surface of the tag 22 is exposed and the
other surface of the tag 22 is electrically coupled to the surface
24 via a conduction path 26. The conducting surface 24 can be
created using a variety of techniques, e.g., any ingestible
conducting ink technology. To prevent removal of the tag 22 from
the pill 20, the tag 22 is secured in such a way to cause
destruction of the circuitry of the tag 22 if attempts are made to
separate it from the medication. Additionally, including the
conducting surface 24 around the tag 22 further prevents tampering
with and removal of the tag 22. Specifically, if the tag 22 is
removed from the pill 20, then the conducting surface 24 and the
path 26 will be separated from the tag 22 thereby preventing
interrogation of the tag 22 by a device 40.
[0214] The device 40 includes contact points 42 and 44, each of
which is connected to an interrogation unit 46. The device 40 also
includes a power source, which is not shown. The interrogation unit
46 is connected to a communication module 48. To confirm the origin
of the pill 20 as well the type and dose, the pill 20 is placed in
the opening 40a and comes into contact with contact points 42 and
44. The interrogation unit 46 can then read the identity of the tag
22. The identity of the tag 22 is then communicated to a mobile
computer 50. The communication link 52 between the device 40 and
the mobile computer 50 is any wireless communication link, such as
Bluetooth.TM. technology or similar wireless technology. In another
aspect, the device 40 may be part of the computer 50 as well.
[0215] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
device 40 may include a memory for storing the information for
later transmission or communication as well as confirmation in the
event the communication link between the device 40 and the mobile
computer 50 is interrupted or lost.
[0216] Additionally, in accordance with another aspect of the
present invention, the device 40 may be directly connected to the
mobile computer 50 with a physical link (not shown), such as a
wired connection, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB). The mobile
computer 50 is then able to confirm the origin of the medication
and other information associated with correct delivery of the type
and dose of medication to a patient 60. The computer 50 is shown
with a display 58. The display 58 can provide information such as
an image of the patient, patient's medical history, the next type
and dose of medication to deliver to the patient. In accordance
with various aspects of the present invention, the mobile computer
50 may be any device that includes a display and wireless
communication capabilities, such as a mobile communication device,
a mobile phone, or a laptop computer with wireless communication
unit. Furthermore, the mobile computer 50 includes audio output 50a
and an audio input 50b, which can be used together to simulate a
modem and create a data channel for communication. Also, the mobile
computer 50 is capable of communication using various
communications protocol(s), e.g., Short Message Service (SMS) such
that information is transmitted to a destination through mobile
phone communication channels.
[0217] With respect to the syringe 30, an identifiable tag 32 is
secured to the syringe 30. To ensure that the tag 32 cannot be
removed from the syringe 30 and reattached to a different syringe,
the syringe and/or tag include(s) a safety component, e.g., the tag
32 includes a layer that is activated once exposed to air, such as
a zinc battery. Thus, upon manufacture, each syringe 30 is secured
within a hermetically sealed package to preserve the tag 32. Once
the package is opened, the tag 32 is exposed to the air and, hence,
activated. Thus, if the package is opened and the medication is not
delivered within a short period of time, such a few minutes, then
the tag 32 is deactivated and cannot be interrogated later. In
accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the layer of
the tag 32 is a zinc-based battery that is activated upon contact
with the surrounding air and, hence, powers up the tag 32.
[0218] Once the syringe 30 is removed from the package and the care
provider is ready to deliver the medication to the patient, the
syringe 30 is placed inside the sleeve 34. The sleeve 34 can detect
and capture the identity of the tag 32. The sleeve 34 transmits the
information associated with the tag 32 secured to the syringe 30
via a physical connection 54 between the mobile computer 50 and the
sleeve 34. In accordance with another aspect of the present
invention, the sleeve 34 may be in communication with the mobile
computer 50 via a wireless connection, not shown. As the needle of
the syringe 30 comes into contact with the patient 60, then the
circuit is completed as shown through the patient identity
confirmation device 70.
[0219] Referring now to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, in accordance with
another aspect of the present invention, the needle of the syringe
30 may include specific contact points 36 that are connected to the
tag 32 via connection 38. The contact points 36 are positioned
along at the end of the syringe 30 or on the needle such that
contact with the skin of the patient completes a circuit that is
then used to activate the tag 32 to transmit a unique signature or
identity that represents delivery of the medication to the patient
60.
[0220] Referring now to FIG. 2C, the contact points 36 are
electrically coupled to the tag 32. The tag 32 is electrically
coupled to the sleeve 34 as the syringe 30 is placed inside the
sleeve 34 through a contact point 34a. The contact point 34a makes
contact with the tag 32 to allow electrical signals to pass between
the tag 32, through the connection 54, and the mobile computer 50.
A stop tab 34b is positioned within the sleeve 34 to ensure proper
alignment of the contact point 34a with the tag 32.
[0221] Referring now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the patient identity
confirmation device 70 is shown connected to the mobile computer 50
via a connection or link 56. The patient identity confirmation
device 70 includes thumb pads or contact points 72 and 74 exposed
on the surface of the patient identity confirmation device 70. The
contact points 72 and 74 may be any form of biometric detection
contacts in accordance with various aspects of the present
invention. For example, the contact point may scan and confirm
fingerprint information. In accordance with another aspect of the
present invention, the contact points may detect the physiological
parameters of the patient, such as temperature, or other biometric
parameters that can identify the patient, including DNA. The
contact points 72 and 74 are electrically coupled to a control unit
70a within the patient identity confirmation device 70. In
accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a power source
70b is electrically coupled to the control unit 70a, so that the
patient identity confirmation device 70 is self powered. In
accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the
patient identity confirmation device 70 can receive power from the
mobile computer through the connection 56.
[0222] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the
patient identity confirmation device 70 includes a camera 78 for
capturing an image of the patient that is transmitted to the mobile
computer 50. The camera 78 is electrically connected to the control
unit 70a. The control unit 70a controls the activation of the
camera 78 once the control unit 70a detected that a circuit path is
complete, which indicates that the patient 60 is receiving the
medication. More specifically, the patient 60 holds the patient
identity confirmation device 70 using at least one of the contact
points 72 and 74 to create a physical connection between the
patient identity confirmation device 70 and the patient 60 at one
of the limbs 62 and 64, e.g., right and left thumbs. As the patient
60 holds the patient identity confirmation device 70 and the
syringe 30 comes into contact with the patient 60, then a circuit
is completed. More specifically, the contact points 36 come into
contact with the skin of the patient 60. The contact points 36 are
electrically coupled to the tag 32 and the tag 32 is electrically
coupled to the sleeve 34. The sleeve 34 is electrically coupled to
the mobile computer 50 and the mobile computer 50 is electrically
coupled to the patient identity confirmation device 70. Thus, a
complete circuit is formed through the patient 60 once the patient
hold the patient identity confirmation device 70 and the needle of
the syringe 30 comes into contact with the skin of the patient
60.
[0223] As indicated above the contact points 72 and 74 can detect
physiological parameters of the patient through the physical
contact, including a change in heart rate, which is typical when
the needle of the syringe 30 pierces the skin of patient 60. This
change in physiological parameter of the patient 60 can be a
trigger that is used by the control unit 70a to activate the camera
to capture an image of the patient 60. The information associated
with the time and date of delivery as well as the image of the
patient 60 is sent to the mobile computer 50. The mobile computer
50 can record the delivery of the medication to the patient 60.
Additionally, the mobile computer 50 can scan or interrogate the
tag 32 to confirm the dose and type of medication delivered.
Thereafter, the zinc-based layer of the tag 32 expires and the tag
32 cannot be used again. In accordance with another aspect of the
present invention, the syringe 30 may be a single use syringe such
that once the plunger is depressed, it cannot be retracted or
extracted.
[0224] In various aspects the identifiable tags 22, 32, similar to
an ingestible event marker or an ionic emission module (IEM), may
be implemented in accordance with the system 120 shown in FIG. 4.
The system 120 can be used in association with any medication
product, as mentioned above, to determine the origin of the
medication and to confirm that at least one of the right type and
the right dosage of medication was delivered to the patient and in
some aspects to determine when a patient takes the pharmaceutical
product. The scope of the present disclosure, however, is not
limited by the environment and the product that is used with the
system 120. For example, the system may be activated either in
wireless mode, in galvanic mode by placing the system 120 within a
capsule and the placing the capsule within the conducting fluid, or
a combination thereof, or exposing the system 120 to air. Once
placed in a conducting fluid, for example, the capsule would
dissolve over a period of time and release the system 120 into the
conducting fluid. Thus, in one aspect, the capsule would contain
the system 120 and no product. Such a capsule may then be used in
any environment where a conducting fluid is present and with any
product. For example, the capsule may be dropped into a container
filled with jet fuel, salt water, tomato sauce, motor oil, or any
similar product. Additionally, the capsule containing the system
120 may be ingested at the same time that any pharmaceutical
product is ingested in order to record the occurrence of the event,
such as when the product was taken.
[0225] In the specific example of the system 120 combined with a
medication or pharmaceutical product, as the product or pill is
ingested, or exposed to air, the system 120 is activated in
galvanic mode. The system 120 controls conductance to produce a
unique current signature that is detected, thereby signifying that
the pharmaceutical product has been taken. When activated in
wireless mode, the system controls modulation of capacitive plates
to produce a unique voltage signature associated with the system
120 that is detected.
[0226] In one aspect, the system 120 includes a framework 122. The
framework 122 is a chassis for the system 120 and multiple
components are attached to, deposited upon, or secured to the
framework 122. In this aspect of the system 120, a digestible
material 124 is physically associated with the framework 122. The
material 124 may be chemically deposited on, evaporated onto,
secured to, or built-up on the framework all of which may be
referred to herein as "deposit" with respect to the framework 122.
The material 124 is deposited on one side of the framework 122. The
materials of interest that can be used as material 124 include, but
are not limited to: Cu, CuCl, or CuI. The material 124 is deposited
by physical vapor deposition, electrodeposition, or plasma
deposition, among other protocols. The material 124 may be from
about 0.05 to about 500 .mu.m thick, such as from about 5 to about
100 .mu.m thick. The shape is controlled by shadow mask deposition,
or photolithography and etching. Additionally, even though only one
region is shown for depositing the material, each system 120 may
contain two or more electrically unique regions where the material
124 may be deposited, as desired.
[0227] At a different side, which is the opposite side as shown in
FIG. 4, another digestible material 126 is deposited, such that the
materials 124 and 126 are dissimilar and insulated from each other.
Although not shown, the different side selected may be the side
next to the side selected for the material 124. The scope of the
present disclosure is not limited by the side selected and the term
"different side" can mean any of the multiple sides that are
different from the first selected side. In various aspects, the
dissimilar material may be located at different positions on a same
side. Furthermore, although the shape of the system is shown as a
square, the shape may be any geometrically suitable shape. The
materials 124 and 126 are selected such that they produce a voltage
potential difference when the system 120 is in contact with
conducting liquid, such as body fluids. The materials of interest
for material 126 include, but are not limited to: Mg, Zn, or other
electronegative metals. As indicated above with respect to the
material 124, the material 126 may be chemically deposited on,
evaporated onto, secured to, or built-up on the framework. Also, an
adhesion layer may be necessary to help the material 126 (as well
as material 124 when needed) to adhere to the framework 122.
Typical adhesion layers for the material 126 are Ti, TiW, Cr or
similar material. Anode material and the adhesion layer may be
deposited by physical vapor deposition, electrodeposition or plasma
deposition. The material 126 may be from about 0.05 to about 500
.mu.m thick, such as from about 5 to about 100 .mu.m thick.
However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the
thickness of any of the materials nor by the type of process used
to deposit or secure the materials to the framework 122.
[0228] According to the disclosure set forth, the materials 124 and
126 can be any pair of materials with different electrochemical
potentials. Additionally, in the embodiments wherein the system 120
is used in-vivo, the materials 124 and 126 may be vitamins that can
be absorbed. More specifically, the materials 124 and 126 can be
made of any two materials appropriate for the environment in which
the system 120 will be operating. For example, when used with an
ingestible product, the materials 124 and 126 are any pair of
materials with different electrochemical potentials that are
ingestible. An illustrative example includes the instance when the
system 120 is in contact with an ionic solution, such as stomach
acids. Suitable materials are not restricted to metals, and in
certain embodiments the paired materials are chosen from metals and
non-metals, e.g., a pair made up of a metal (such as Mg) and a salt
(such as CuCl or CuI). With respect to the active electrode
materials, any pairing of substances--metals, salts, or
intercalation compounds--with suitably different electrochemical
potentials (voltage) and low interfacial resistance are
suitable.
[0229] Materials and pairings of interest include, but are not
limited to, those reported in TABLE 1 below. In one embodiment, one
or both of the metals may be doped with a non-metal, e.g., to
enhance the voltage potential created between the materials as they
come into contact with a conducting liquid. Non-metals that may be
used as doping agents in certain embodiments include, but are not
limited to: sulfur, iodine, and the like. In another embodiment,
the materials are copper iodine (CuI) as the anode and magnesium
(Mg) as the cathode. Aspects of the present disclosure use
electrode materials that are not harmful to the human body.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Anode Cathode Metals Magnesium, Zinc Sodium
(.dagger.), Lithium (.dagger.) Iron Salts Copper salts: iodide,
chloride, bromide, sulfate, formate, (other anions possible)
Fe.sup.3+ salts: e.g. orthophosphate, pyrophosphate, (other anions
possible) Oxygen (.dagger..dagger.) on platinum, gold or other
catalytic surfaces Intercalation Graphite with Li, K, Vanadium
oxide Manganese oxide compounds Ca, Na, Mg
[0230] Thus, when the system 120 is in contact with the conducting
fluid, a current path is formed through the conducting fluid
between the dissimilar materials 124 and 126. A control device 128
is secured to the framework 122 and electrically coupled to the
materials 124 and 126. The control device 128 includes electronic
circuitry, for example control logic that is capable of controlling
and altering the conductance between the materials 124 and 126.
[0231] The voltage potential created between the dissimilar
materials 124 and 126 provides the power for operating the system
as well as produces the current flow through the conducting fluid
and the system 120. In one aspect, the system 120 operates in
direct current mode. In an alternative aspect, the system 120
controls the direction of the current so that the direction of
current is reversed in a cyclic manner, similar to alternating
current. As the system reaches the conducting fluid or the
electrolyte, where the fluid or electrolyte component is provided
by a physiological fluid, e.g., stomach acid, the path for current
flow between the dissimilar materials 124 and 126 is completed
external to the system 120; the current path through the system 120
is controlled by the control device 128. Completion of the current
path allows for the current to flow and in turn a receiver, not
shown, can detect the presence of the current and recognize that
the system 120 has been activate and the desired event is occurring
or has occurred.
[0232] In one embodiment, the two dissimilar materials 124 and 126
are similar in function to the two electrodes needed for a direct
current power source, such as a battery. The conducting liquid acts
as the electrolyte needed to complete the power source. The
completed power source described is defined by the physical
chemical reaction between the dissimilar materials 124 and 126 of
the system 120 and the surrounding fluids of the body. The
completed power source may be viewed as a power source that
exploits reverse electrolysis in an ionic or a conduction solution
such as gastric fluid, blood, or other bodily fluids and some
tissues. Additionally, the environment may be something other than
a body and the liquid may be any conducting liquid. For example,
the conducting fluid may be salt water or a metallic based
paint.
[0233] In certain aspects, the two dissimilar materials 124 and 126
are shielded from the surrounding environment by an additional
layer of material. Accordingly, when the shield is dissolved and
the two dissimilar materials 124, 126 are exposed to the target
site, a voltage potential is generated.
[0234] In certain aspects, the complete power source or supply is
one that is made up of active electrode materials, electrolytes,
and inactive materials, such as current collectors, packaging. The
active materials are any pair of materials with different
electrochemical potentials. Suitable materials are not restricted
to metals, and in certain embodiments the paired materials are
chosen from metals and non-metals, e.g., a pair made up of a metal
(such as Mg) and a salt (such as CuI). With respect to the active
electrode materials, any pairing of substances--metals, salts, or
intercalation compounds--with suitably different electrochemical
potentials (voltage) and low interfacial resistance are
suitable.
[0235] A variety of different materials may be employed as the
materials that form the electrodes. In certain embodiments,
electrode materials are chosen to provide for a voltage upon
contact with the target physiological site, e.g., the stomach,
sufficient to drive the system of the identifier. In certain
embodiments, the voltage provided by the electrode materials upon
contact of the metals of the power source with the target
physiological site is 0.001 V or higher, including 0.01 V or
higher, such as 0.1 V or higher, e.g., 0.3 V or higher, including
0.5 volts or higher, and including 1.0 volts or higher, where in
certain embodiments, the voltage ranges from about 0.001 to about
10 volts, such as from about 0.01 to about 10 V.
[0236] Referring still to FIG. 4, the dissimilar materials 124 and
126 provide the voltage potential to activate the control device
128. Once the control device 128 is activated or powered up, the
control device 128 can alter conductance between the first and
second materials 124 and 126 in a unique manner. By altering the
conductance between the first and second materials 124 and 126, the
control device 128 is capable of controlling the magnitude of the
current through the conducting liquid that surrounds the system
120. This produces a unique current signature that can be detected
and measured by a receiver (not shown), which can be positioned
internal or external to the body. The receiver is disclosed in
greater detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/673,326
entitled BODY-ASSOCIATED RECEIVER AND METHOD filed on Dec. 15,
2009, and published as 2010-0312188 A1 dated Dec. 9, 2010 which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In addition to
controlling the magnitude of the current path between the
materials, non-conducting materials, membrane, or "skirt" are used
to increase the "length" of the current path and, hence, act to
boost the conductance path, as disclosed in the U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/238,345 entitled, "In-Body Device with
Virtual Dipole Signal Amplification" filed Sep. 25, 2008, the
entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Alternatively, throughout the disclosure herein, the terms
"non-conducting material," "membrane," and "skirt" are
interchangeably used with the term "current path extender" without
impacting the scope or the present embodiments and the claims
herein. The skirt, shown in portion at 125 and 127, respectively,
may be associated with, e.g., secured to, the framework 122.
Various shapes and configurations for the skirt are contemplated as
within the scope of the various aspects of the present invention.
For example, the system 120 may be surrounded entirely or partially
by the skirt and the skirt maybe positioned along a central axis of
the system 120 or off-center relative to a central axis. Thus, the
scope of the present invention as claimed herein is not limited by
the shape or size of the skirt. Furthermore, in other embodiments,
the dissimilar materials 124 and 126 may be separated by one skirt
that is positioned in any defined region between the dissimilar
materials 124 and 126.
[0237] The system 120 may be grounded through a ground contact. The
system 120 also may include a sensor module. In operation, ion or
current paths are established between the first material 124 to the
second material 126 and through a conducting fluid in contact with
the system 120. The voltage potential created between the first and
second materials 124 and 126 is created through chemical reactions
between the first and second materials 124/126 and the conducting
fluid. In one aspect, the surface of the first material 124 is not
planar, but rather an irregular surface. The irregular surface
increases the surface area of the material and, hence, the area
that comes in contact with the conducting fluid.
[0238] In one aspect, at the surface of the first material 124,
there is chemical reaction between the material 124 and the
surrounding conducting fluid such that mass is released into the
conducting fluid. The term mass as used herein refers to protons
and neutrons that form a substance. One example includes the
instant where the material is CuCl and when in contact with the
conducting fluid, CuCl becomes Cu (solid) and Cl-- in solution. The
flow of ions into the conduction fluid is via ion paths. In a
similar manner, there is a chemical reaction between the second
material 126 and the surrounding conducting fluid and ions are
captured by the second material 126. The release of ions at the
first material 124 and capture of ion by the second material 126 is
collectively referred to as the ionic exchange. The rate of ionic
exchange and, hence the ionic emission rate or flow, is controlled
by the control device 128. The control device 128 can increase or
decrease the rate of ion flow by altering the conductance, which
alters the impedance, between the first and second materials 124
and 126. Through controlling the ion exchange, the system 120 can
encode information in the ionic exchange process. Thus, the system
120 uses ionic emission to encode information in the ionic
exchange.
[0239] The control device 128 can vary the duration of a fixed
ionic exchange rate or current flow magnitude while keeping the
rate or magnitude near constant, similar to when the frequency is
modulated and the amplitude is constant. Also, the control device
128 can vary the level of the ionic exchange rate or the magnitude
of the current flow while keeping the duration near constant. Thus,
using various combinations of changes in duration and altering the
rate or magnitude, the control device 128 encodes information in
the current flow or the ionic exchange. For example, the control
device 128 may use, but is not limited to any of the following
techniques namely, Binary Phase-Shift Keying (PSK), Frequency
Modulation (FM), Amplitude Modulation (AM), On-Off Keying, and PSK
with On-Off Keying.
[0240] Various aspects of the system 120 may comprise electronic
components as part of the control device 128. Components that may
be present include but are not limited to: logic and/or memory
elements, an integrated circuit, an inductor, a resistor, and
sensors for measuring various parameters. Each component may be
secured to the framework and/or to another component. The
components on the surface of the support may be laid out in any
convenient configuration. Where two or more components are present
on the surface of the solid support, interconnects may be
provided.
[0241] The system 120 controls the conductance between the
dissimilar materials and, hence, the rate of ionic exchange or the
current flow. Through altering the conductance in a specific manner
the system is capable of encoding information in the ionic exchange
and the current signature. The ionic exchange or the current
signature is used to uniquely identify the specific system.
Additionally, the system 120 is capable of producing various
different unique exchanges or signatures and, thus, provides
additional information. For example, a second current signature
based on a second conductance alteration pattern may be used to
provide additional information, which information may be related to
the physical environment. To further illustrate, a first current
signature may be a very low current state that maintains an
oscillator on the chip and a second current signature may be a
current state at least a factor of ten higher than the current
state associated with the first current signature.
[0242] Referring now back to FIG. 1, the mobile computer 50 is in
communication with the data center 80. The data center 80 includes
a database 82 and processing system 84. Information associated with
all patients, including identity and medication types and doses,
are stored in the database 82. The processing system 84 receives
information from the mobile computer 50 and accesses the
information in the database 82 of the data center 80 to provide
information to the care provider through the mobile computer 50.
The mobile computer 50 can communicate information including a
photo of the patient for identification, the type of medication
available to the care provider, as well as confirmation of the type
and dose of medication that the care provider selects and delivers
to the patient 60. The mobile computer 50 can communicate with the
data center 80 using any mode and frequency of communication that
is available in at the site, such as wireless, G2, G3, real-time,
periodically based on predetermined time delays, as well as store
and forward at later time.
[0243] FIG. 1 illustrates one aspect of the mobile computer 50. In
various aspects, the mobile computer 50 may comprise or be
implemented by a wireless device.
[0244] The mobile computer 50 generally may comprise various
physical or logical elements implemented as hardware, software, or
any combination thereof, as desired for a given set of design
parameters or performance constraints. In various aspects, the
physical or logical elements may be connected by one or more
communications media. For example, communication media may comprise
wired communication media, wireless communication media, or a
combination of both, as desired for a given implementation.
[0245] As shown, the mobile computer 50 may comprise a display 58.
The display 58 may be implemented using any type of visual
interface such as a liquid crystal display (LCD).
[0246] As shown, the mobile computer 50 may comprise a memory 102.
In various aspects, the memory 102 may comprise any
machine-readable or computer-readable media capable of storing
data, including both volatile and non-volatile memory. For example,
memory may include read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory
(RAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), Double-Data-Rate DRAM (DDR-RAM),
synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), static RAM (SRAM), programmable ROM
(PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable
programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory (e.g., NOR or NAND flash
memory), content addressable memory (CAM), polymer memory (e.g.,
ferroelectric polymer memory), phase-change memory (e.g., ovonic
memory), ferroelectric memory, silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon
(SONOS) memory, disk memory (e.g., floppy disk, hard drive, optical
disk, magnetic disk), or card (e.g., magnetic card, optical card),
or any other type of media suitable for storing information.
[0247] The mobile computer 50 may comprise a processor 100 such as
a central processing unit (CPU). In various aspects, the processor
100 may be implemented as a general purpose processor, a chip
multiprocessor (CMP), a dedicated processor, an embedded processor,
a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor, a media
processor, an input/output (I/O) processor, a media access control
(MAC) processor, a radio baseband processor, a co-processor, a
microprocessor such as a complex instruction set computer (CISC)
microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC)
microprocessor, and/or a very long instruction word (VLIW)
microprocessor, or other processing device. The processor 510 also
may be implemented by a controller, a microcontroller, an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field
programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD),
and so forth.
[0248] In various aspects, the processor 100 may be arranged to run
an operating system (OS) and various mobile applications. Examples
of an OS include, for example, operating systems generally known
under the trade name of Microsoft Windows OS, and any other
proprietary or open source OS. Examples of mobile applications
include, for example, a telephone application, a camera (e.g.,
digital camera, video camera) application, a browser application, a
multimedia player application, a gaming application, a messaging
application (e.g., e-mail, short message, multimedia), a viewer
application, and so forth.
[0249] In various aspects, the processor 100 may be arranged to
receive information through a communications interface 104. The
communications interface 104 may comprises any suitable hardware,
software, or combination of hardware and software that is capable
of coupling the mobile computer 50 to one or more networks and/or
devices, such as the pill 20, the tag 22, the device 40,
interrogation unit 46, the patient identity confirmation device 70,
the tag 32, the sleeve 34, and/or the data center 80, among other
devices. The communications interface 104 may be arranged to
operate with any suitable technique for controlling information
signals using a desired set of communications protocols, services
or operating procedures. The communications interface 104 may
include the appropriate physical connectors to connect with a
corresponding communications medium, whether wired or wireless.
[0250] Vehicles of communication include a network. In various
aspects, the network may comprise local area networks (LAN) as well
as wide area networks (WAN) including without limitation Internet,
wired channels, wireless channels, communication devices including
telephones, computers, wire, radio, optical or other
electromagnetic channels, and combinations thereof, including other
devices and/or components capable of/associated with communicating
data. For example, the communication environments include in-body
communications, various devices, various modes of communications
such as wireless communications, wired communications, and
combinations of the same.
[0251] Wireless communication modes include any mode of
communication between points that utilizes, at least in part,
wireless technology including various protocols and combinations of
protocols associated with wireless transmission, data, and devices.
The points include, for example, wireless devices such as wireless
headsets, audio and multimedia devices and equipment, such as audio
players and multimedia players, telephones, including mobile
telephones and cordless telephones, and computers and
computer-related devices and components, such as printers.
[0252] Wired communication modes include any mode of communication
between points that utilizes wired technology including various
protocols and combinations of protocols associated with wired
transmission, data, and devices. The points include, for example,
devices such as audio and multimedia devices and equipment, such as
audio players and multimedia players, telephones, including mobile
telephones and cordless telephones, and computers and
computer-related devices and components, such as printers.
[0253] Accordingly, in various aspects, the communications
interface 104 may comprise one or more interfaces such as, for
example, a wireless communications interface, a wired
communications interface, a network interface, a transmit
interface, a receive interface, a media interface, a system
interface, a component interface, a switching interface, a chip
interface, a controller, and so forth. When implemented by a
wireless device or within wireless system, for example, the mobile
computer 50 may include a wireless interface comprising one or more
antennas, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, amplifiers,
filters, control logic, and so forth.
[0254] In various implementations, the described aspects may
communicate over wireless shared media in accordance with a number
of wireless protocols. Examples of wireless protocols may include
various wireless local area network (WLAN) protocols, including the
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.xx
series of protocols, such as IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n, IEEE 802.16, IEEE
802.20, and so forth. Other examples of wireless protocols may
include various wireless wide area network (WWAN) protocols, such
as GSM cellular radiotelephone system protocols with GPRS, CDMA
cellular radiotelephone communication systems with 1.times.RTT,
EDGE systems, EV-DO systems, EV-DV systems, HSDPA systems, and so
forth. Further examples of wireless protocols may include wireless
personal area network (PAN) protocols, such as an Infrared
protocol, a protocol from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group
(SIG) series of protocols, including Bluetooth Specification
versions v1.0, v1.1, v1.2, v2.0, v2.0 with Enhanced Data Rate
(EDR), as well as one or more Bluetooth Profiles, and so forth. Yet
another example of wireless protocols may include near-field
communication techniques and protocols, such as electro-magnetic
induction (EMI) techniques. An example of EMI techniques may
include passive or active radio-frequency identification (RFID)
protocols and devices. Other suitable protocols may include Ultra
Wide Band (UWB), Digital Office (DO), Digital Home, Trusted
Platform Module (TPM), ZigBee, and so forth.
[0255] In various implementations, the described aspects may
comprise part of a cellular communication system. Examples of
cellular communication systems may include CDMA cellular
radiotelephone communication systems, GSM cellular radiotelephone
systems, North American Digital Cellular (NADC) cellular
radiotelephone systems, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA)
cellular radiotelephone systems, Extended-TDMA (E-TDMA) cellular
radiotelephone systems, Narrowband Advanced Mobile Phone Service
(NAMPS) cellular radiotelephone systems, third generation (3G)
systems such as WCDMA, CDMA-2000, UMTS cellular radiotelephone
systems compliant with the Third-Generation Partnership Project
(3GPP), and so forth.
[0256] In various aspects, the mobile computer 50 includes the
functionality to wirelessly receive and/or wirelessly transmit
data, e.g., physiologic data.
[0257] Further, in various aspects, the mobile computer 50 may
incorporate and/or be associated with, e.g., communicate with,
various devices. Such devices may generate, receive, and/or
communicate data, e.g., physiologic data. The devices include, for
example, "intelligent" devices such as gaming devices, e.g.,
electronic slot machines, handheld electronic games, electronic
components associated with games and recreational activities.
[0258] The mobile computer 50 may be implemented as a mobile
telephone. For example, the mobile computer 50 may be implemented
as a short-range, portable electronic device used for mobile voice
or data communication over a network of specialized cell site base
stations. The mobile telephone is sometimes known as or referred to
as "mobile," "wireless," "cellular phone," "cell phone," or "hand
phone (HP)."
[0259] In addition to the standard voice function of a telephone,
various aspects of mobile telephones may support many additional
services and accessories such as short message service (SMS) for
text messaging, email, packet switching for access to the Internet,
java gaming, wireless, e.g., short range data/voice communications,
infrared, camera with video recorder, and multimedia messaging
system (MMS) for sending and receiving photos and video. Some
aspects of mobile telephones connect to a cellular network of base
stations (cell sites), which is, in turn, interconnected to the
public switched telephone network (PSTN) or satellite
communications in the case of satellite phones. Various aspects of
mobile telephones can connect to the Internet, at least a portion
of which can be navigated using the mobile telephones.
[0260] Some embodiments may be implemented, for example, using a
machine-readable medium or article which may store an instruction
or a set of instructions that, if executed by a machine, may cause
the machine to perform a method and/or operations in accordance
with the embodiments. Such a machine may include, for example, any
suitable processing platform, computing platform, computing device,
processing device, computing system, processing system, computer,
processor, or the like, and may be implemented using any suitable
combination of hardware and/or software. The machine-readable
medium or article may include, for example, any suitable type of
memory unit, memory device, memory article, memory medium, storage
device, storage article, storage medium and/or storage unit, for
example, memory, removable or non-removable media, erasable or
non-erasable media, writeable or re-writeable media, digital or
analog media, hard disk, floppy disk, Compact Disk Read Only Memory
(CD-ROM), Compact Disk Recordable (CD-R), Compact Disk Rewriteable
(CD-RW), optical disk, magnetic media, magneto-optical media,
removable memory cards or disks, various types of Digital Versatile
Disk (DVD), a tape, a cassette, or the like. The instructions may
include any suitable type of code, such as source code, compiled
code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code,
and the like. The instructions may be implemented using any
suitable high-level, low-level, object-oriented, visual, compiled
and/or interpreted programming language, such as C, C++, Java,
BASIC, Perl, Matlab, Pascal, Visual BASIC, assembly language,
machine code, and so forth.
[0261] It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to
particular embodiments or aspects described, as such may vary. It
is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for
the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not
intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention
will be limited only by the appended claims.
[0262] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that
each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper
and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening
value in that stated range, is encompassed within the invention.
The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may
independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also
encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically
excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes
one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those
included limits are also included in the invention.
[0263] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although
any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described
herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present
invention, representative illustrative methods and materials are
now described.
[0264] All publications and patents cited in this specification are
herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication
or patent were specifically and individually indicated to be
incorporated by reference and are incorporated herein by reference
to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials in connection
with which the publications are cited. The citation of any
publication is for its disclosure prior to the filing date and
should not be construed as an admission that the present invention
is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior
invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be
different from the actual publication dates which may need to be
independently confirmed.
[0265] It is noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims,
the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted
that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As
such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for
use of such exclusive terminology as "solely," "only" and the like
in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a
"negative" limitation.
[0266] As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon
reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments
described and illustrated herein has discrete components and
features which may be readily separated from or combined with the
features of any of the other several embodiments without departing
from the scope or spirit of the present invention. Any recited
method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any
other order which is logically possible.
[0267] Unless specifically stated otherwise, it may be appreciated
that terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating,"
"determining," or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of
a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing
device, that manipulates and/or transforms data represented as
physical quantities (e.g., electronic) within the computing
system's registers and/or memories into other data similarly
represented as physical quantities within the computing system's
memories, registers or other such information storage, transmission
or display devices.
[0268] Numerous specific details have been set forth herein to
provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. It will be
understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the
embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In
other instances, well-known operations, components and circuits
have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the
embodiments. It can be appreciated that the specific structural and
functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do
not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.
[0269] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some
detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity
of understanding, it is readily apparent to those of ordinary skill
in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that certain
changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing
from the scope of the appended claims.
[0270] Accordingly, the preceding merely illustrates the principles
of the invention. It will be appreciated that those skilled in the
art will be able to devise various arrangements which, although not
explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the
invention and are included within its spirit and scope.
Furthermore, all examples and conditional language recited herein
are principally intended to aid the reader in understanding the
principles of the invention and the concepts contributed by the
inventors to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being
without limitation to such specifically recited examples and
conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles,
aspects, and embodiments of the invention as well as specific
examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and
functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that
such equivalents include both currently known equivalents and
equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed
that perform the same function, regardless of structure. The scope
of the present invention, therefore, is not intended to be limited
to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. Rather,
the scope and spirit of present invention is embodied by the
appended claims.
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