US 12,718,676 B2 · NFC tag-based container alerting system

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems and methods for tracking transported items, particularly in hospital pneumatic tube systems for delivering medications. A key challenge in such systems is the frequent occurrence of missing or misplaced items, which disrupts workflow and compromises patient care. This invention addresses the problem by incorporating an alarm device on a transport container, alongside arming and disarming devices at loading and unloading locations. The alarm activates if the container is opened without disarming, providing a reminder while allowing urgent access when needed. The system records essential tracking information, including the container's contents, user identity, and time of access. By linking this data, the invention enables real-time tracking and accountability, reducing medication loss while maintaining accessibility during emergencies. This solution enhances operational efficiency and supports the accurate delivery of critical items.

Claims12

Dependent claims

A system for tracking transported items, the system comprising:

a. at least one non-locking container fitted with an alarm device configured to produce a local annunciator comprising an audible or visual alert on the container;
b. an arming device at a loading location;
and
c. a disarming device at an unloading location;
d. wherein the alarm device is configured to be armed by the arming device and disarmed by the disarming device, and while armed, is configured to immediately activate the local annunciator on the container if the container is opened;
and
e. wherein the arming device is configured to collect information related to the contents of the container, and the disarming device is configured to collect information identifying the user who operates the disarming device, such that the collected information is used to link the contents of the container to the identity of the user who operates the disarming device.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

NFC tag-based container alerting system

Life of this patent

NFC tag-based container alerting system

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims12