CA2098347A1 - Apparatus for controlling file retrieval - Google Patents
Apparatus for controlling file retrievalInfo
- Publication number
- CA2098347A1 CA2098347A1 CA002098347A CA2098347A CA2098347A1 CA 2098347 A1 CA2098347 A1 CA 2098347A1 CA 002098347 A CA002098347 A CA 002098347A CA 2098347 A CA2098347 A CA 2098347A CA 2098347 A1 CA2098347 A1 CA 2098347A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- retrieval
- data
- proper
- retriever
- signal
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
- G06K17/00—Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups G06K1/00 - G06K15/00, e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
Abstract
Abstract A file retrieval controlling apparatus comprises a retriever proper that retrieves and transmits a retrieval identifying data based on a retrieval instruction input from outside, a retrieval unit 40 having an identifying data storage circuit 52 that holds a set of retrieval identifying data allocated to individual binders, a compa-ring circuit 52 that compares the received retrieval iden-tifying data with the set of data stored in the identify-ing data storage circuit 52 and outputs a coincidence signal when a matching data is found, a response signal transmitting circuit 53 that actuates an externally recog-nizable light-emitting diode 48 according to the coinci-dence signal and outputs a response signal, contacts 41 and 42 connected to feeder lines to feed electricity to the retriever proper, memory and comparator and contacts 43 and 44 connected to signal lines and attached to each binder, and a file container having feeder lines disposed parallel to each other along the row of binders and signal lines to transmit the signals from the retriever proper and the retrieval unit.
When the retriever proper sends a retrieval identi-fying data through a transmission line to the retrieval units 40 that are constantly powered by an external power supply and on stand-by, the light-emitting diode 48 of a retrieval unit conforming to the transmitted data goes on.
Thus, a binder containing the desired file can be readily located by finding the glowing display. Besides, the retriever proper can confirm the presence of the binder conforming to the retrieval identification data based on a response signal the retrieval unit initiates when the display goes on. Only missing files can be detected by transmitting an identifying data for inspection demanding a broadcast response.
When the retriever proper sends a retrieval identi-fying data through a transmission line to the retrieval units 40 that are constantly powered by an external power supply and on stand-by, the light-emitting diode 48 of a retrieval unit conforming to the transmitted data goes on.
Thus, a binder containing the desired file can be readily located by finding the glowing display. Besides, the retriever proper can confirm the presence of the binder conforming to the retrieval identification data based on a response signal the retrieval unit initiates when the display goes on. Only missing files can be detected by transmitting an identifying data for inspection demanding a broadcast response.
Description
2 0 9 ~ 3 ~ 7 ~ ~
SPECIFICATION
Title of the Invention `-Apparatus for Controlling File Retrieval Backqround of the Invention This invention relates to apparatus for retrieving a desired file binder out of a large number of file binders stored on a shelf.
A large number of document files, such as those of clinical records, are arranged in the order of, for in-stance, serial numbers and stored in a shelf for ease of retrieval. When a patient comes to hospital for examina-tion or treatment, his record file is manually extracted from the shelf.
A file retrieval system disclosed in Japanese Provi- -sional Patent Publication No. 8105 of 1990 facilitates the retrieval of many files by the use of a retrieval unit consisting of a battery-powered signal receiving element and a light-emitting element to display the received signal that is attached to a file binder and a host trans-mitter that sends an slectromagnetlc wave carrying a retrieval identifying signal to the receiving units on the ~ -stored file binders. When the host transmitter sends a specific identifying signal, the receiving units on all stored files receive the transmitted identifying signal but only one light-emittlng element corresponding to the ~:
. ~
- ,.. ~. . .. -- , . -- -; :
: ~' , . , ' : . :
.~ . .. .
209~3A7 emitted specific signal goes on. By finding out the glowing light-emitting element, the desired file binder can be extracted quickly.
However, this system necessitates periodic changing of batteries on which the signal-receiving unit and light-emitting element are dependent. As the retrieval informa-tion flows unidirectionally from the host transmitter to the retrleval unit, it is impossible to ensure that the extracted file binder is properly returned to the original position. This shortcoming can result in the missing of the extracted file binder.
Summarv of the Invention The ob~ect of this invention is to provide a new battery-less file retrieval controlling apparatus working on externally supplied electricity that is also capable of controlling the restoring of extracted file binders.
A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to this inventlon comprises a retriever proper that retrieves and transmlts a retrieval identifying data based on a re- -trieval instruction input from outside, a retrieval unit having a memory that holds a set of retrieval identifying data allocated to individual binders, a comparator that compares the received retrieval identifying data with the set of data stored in the memory and outputs a coincidence ;~
signal when a matching data is found, a response signal :- ' ' -: ~ . -: . . ~
.. . ~ . , . ... :.
~- 20~83~7 generator that actuates an externally recognizable display accordlng to the coincidence signal and outputs a response signal, contacts connected to feeder lines to feed elec-tricity to the retriever proper, memory and comparator and contacts connected to signal lines and attached to each ; -`
blnder, and a file container having feeder lines disposed parallel to each other along the row of binders and signal lines to transmit the signals from the retriever proper and the retrieval unit.
When the retriever proper sends a retrieval identi-fying data through a transmission line to the retrieval units that are constantly powered by an external power supply and on stand-by, the display of a retrieval unit conforming to the transmitted data goes on. Thus, a binder containing the desired file can be readily located by finding the glowing display. Besides, the retriever proper can confirm the presence of the binder conforming to the retrieval identification data based on a response signal the retrieval unit initiates when the display goes on.
Brief DescriDtion of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a preferred embodi-ment of a retrieval unit according to this invention.
Fig. 2 shows the configuration of a file retrieval con-trolling apparatus according to this invention. Fig. 3 is , ~ , . . . . .
~,~,,,,,,"
.
.
2~983~7 a perspective view showing the wiring in a binder holder and the appearance of a retrieval unit. Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing the operation of the same file retrieval controlling apparatus.
DescriDtion of the Preferred Embodiment Now details of this invention will be described below by making reference to a preferred embodiment of this invention applied to the binders containing clinical records.
Fig. 2 sketches an apparatus according to this inven-tlon. Reference numeral 1 designates a host computer that serves as a retriever proper, to whlch a card reader 2 to read the identification bard of a patient and a keyboard 3 to input the identifying data, such as the identification number of the patient, order of retrieval request, and priority of retrieval, to specify a binder or folder containing clinical records, x-ray photographs, etc. When the identifying data of a patient is read from his or her identlfication card inserted in the card reader 2 or input from the keyboard 3, the host computer 1 retrleves the . . .
personal informatlon of the patlent from a data base -stored thereln and shows the obtained data on a display 4.
When the cllnlcal records of the patlent ls necessary, an lnput of a pertlnent lnstructlon form the keyboard 3 results in an output of a retrieval ldentlfylng data for :
-- 20983~7 use in the retrieval of a binding or folder containing the - -desired clinical records. Intended for use with a large number of binders, the embodiment just described consti-tutes a distributed processing system in conjunction with sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 linked through cables 5. Obvi-ously, a simpler system for smaller applications can be composed by the use of one computer.
Reference numerals 10, 11, 12, 13, ... designate file containers each of which carries a binder holding clinical records and x-ray photographs and is connected to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 through cables 15, 16 and 17. The flle containers 10, 11, 12, 13, ... are partitioned into ~-several rows by shelves 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 so that a number of binders are contained in each row. Each of the file containers 10, 11, 12, 13, ... has a power supply 30, 31, 32 and 33 attached thereto. Bare feeder lines 21 and 22 connected to power supplies 30, 31, 32 and 33 and ~--signal wires 23, 24, 25 and 26 connected to cables 15, 16 and 17 from the computers 15, 16 and 17, which are dis-posed parallel to one another in the direction in which binders are arranged so as not cause short-circuiting, are provided at the surface of a holding shelf 20.
Reference numeral 40 designates a retrieval unit that can be freely attached to and detached from a binder F of practically all commercially available types that holds -- - - . .
- .. ~ : ,, ::,,, . :
' .. .. -~. '' . .. - ~ ~: .
.... .
: ~: ... ,.. , - ~ -.: ' ! '-:
,: : :
'.; ' ~. ~' ~ , , .:
' ~ ~ ' : ''' -: .
: ,,:
20983~7 documents as shown in Fig. 3. The retrieval unit 40 is adapted to be fastened in a position, such as at the bottom of the binder used in the embodiment being de-scribed, where the unit comes ln contact with the feeder llnes 21 and 22 and the signal lines 23, 24, 25 and 26 and has contacts 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 and 46 disposed at the bottom thereof. Thus, the retrleval unit 40 receives power supply from the feeder lines 41 and 42 and the retrieval identifying data and accompanying information from the signal lines 23 and 24 and outputs signals from a response signal transmitting circuit 53 to be described ~-later through the signal lines 25 and 26 and the cables 15, 16 and 17 to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8. -. .-:
The retrieval unit 40 also has a visually perceptible display, such as a light-emitting diode 48, to show the coincidence between the stored and received retrieval data at the back of the binder F that is exposed to view when the binder F is placed on the shelves 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20, together with, as required, a display panel 47 ~-using a liquid-crystal display or an electrochromic dis-play that retains, once activated, the displayed image even after the applied power has been cut off.
Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the retrieval unit 4~ ;
described above. Reference numeral 50 denotes a receiving ~ -aircult that recelves slgnals from the slgnal lines 23 and -:
~,' '' ' .. : : ' ' ' :
- 20983~
24 through contacts 43 and 44 and outputs the retrieval identifying data to a comparing circuit 51 and the serial number indicating the order of acceptance and such accom-panying information as the priorlty of retrieval to a data storage circuit 55 to be described later. Reference numeral 52 denotes an identifying data storage circuit consisting of a read-only memory that stores the identify-ing data assigned to each retrieval unit. The comparing circuit 51 compares the retrieval identifying data from the receiving circuit 50 with the identifying data in the ldentifying data storage circuit 52 and outputs a signal when the compared data coincide.
The response signal transmitting circuit 52 outputs a response signal through the contacts 45 and 46 when the comparing circuit 51 outputs a coincidence signal and to show the presence of the identifying data in the iden-tifying data storage circuit 52 and the binders on the shelves when power is first supplied through the feeder lines 21 and 22, and actuates, as re~uired, an aurally or vlsually perceptible display such as the light-emitting diode 48 used in the embodiment being described.
The data storage circuit 55 stores the accompanying information for each file that is received following the retrieval identlfying data when the comparing circuit 51 outputs a coincidence signal and then output to a display .
, 209~3A 7 drive circuit 56. - :
The essential elements of the retrieval unit 40, such as the receiving circuit 50, comparing circuit 51 and response signal transmitting circuit 53, are powered by electric current supplied from the feeder lines 21 and 22. ~ ~ :
On the other hand, such incidental elements as the data storage clrcuit 55 and display drive circuit 56 are selec- -tively powered by electric current supplied through a ~:
power supply circuit 57 either from the feeder lines 21 ~-and 22 or from a built-in battery 58.
When the retrieval unit 40 receives the supply of electric current from an external source through the feeder lines 21 and 22, the power supply circuit 57 cuts the connection between the data storage circuit 55 and ~ ::
display drive circuit 56 and the battery 58 to feed the - :-~
power from the feeder lines 21 and 22 to the data storage ~ .
circuit 55 and display drive circuit 56. When a binder .
has been extracted from the finder containers 10 to 13 and the power supply from the feeder lines 21 and 22 i8 cut off, the power supply circuit 57 supplies electric current . u to the data storage clrcult 55 and dlsplay drive circuit 56 only from the battery 58.
When a chargeable secondary battery, such as a lithi-um battery or a nlckel-cadmlum battery, is used as the battery 58, a floatlng charglng function may be added to ~ , ',' ,~
.
209~'g7 the power supply circuit so that the battery is charged while power is supplied from the feeder lines 21 and 22.
Now the operation of the apparatus just described will be described by making reference to a flow chart shown in Fig. 4. ;~
On inputting an identifying data for inspection from the keyboard 3 or card reader 2 (Step 60) before starting `
the work of a day, the host computer 1 transmits an identifying data to inspect throughout all binders. The `~
retrieval units 40 on the binders held in position are supplied with power from the feeder lines 21 and 22 and, - ;
therefore, sends out a response signal on receiving the identlfying instruction for inspection and turn on the light-emitting diode 48 (Step 61).
Any irregular space visually found between the glow-ing light-emitting diodes 48 on the retrieval units 40 on the files held in the file containers 10 to 13 suggests a possibility that the binder there is out of position. If that is the case, the displaced binder is returned to its proper position. A search must be made for any missing binder. When the binders slightly gotten out of place in the containers 10, 11, 12 and 13 are properly reset, the contacts 41 and 42 on the retrieval unit 40 come in con-tact with the feeder lines 21 and 22, thereby assuring the supply of power to the receiving circuit 50, comparing 2~9~3~7 :-:
circuit 51 and response signal transmitting circuit 53.
When the receiving circuit 50 receives the identi$ying data for inspection, the response signal transmitting -circuit 53 sends out a response signal and the light-emitting diode 48 goes on to show that the displaced binder has been brought back to its proper position.
The response signal initiated by the retrieval unit 40 passes through the contacts 45 and 46 to the signal lines 25 and 26 and further through the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17 to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 and host computer .
1. With the result of the inspection shown on the display -4, the condition of the contained files can be checked ~ -from either the host oomputer 1 or the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8.
On inserting an identification card of a patient into the card reader 2 following the completion of the prelimi-nary inspection described above, the host computer 1 recognizes the identifying data contained therein and shows the name and other retrieval identifying data of the patient on the dlsplay 4. The receipt number, level of emergency and other incidental information of the same :
patient then lnput from the keyboard 3 are displayed on the dlsplay 4 and slmultaneously sent through the sub- -.
computers 6, 7 and 8 and the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17 to -the containers 10, 11, 12 and 13. The retrieval units 40 -~ ~
'~' 2 ~ 7 on all binders held in the containers 10 to 13 receive the transmitted retrieval identifying data through the signal lines 22 and 23 (Step 62).
The comparing circuit 51 in each retrieval unit 40 compares the retrieval identifying data from the receiving ~ :
circult 50 with the ldentifying data in the identifying data storage circuit 52 and outputs a coincidence signal when the compared data coincide (Step 63). On receiving the coincidence signal, the response signal transmitting circuit 53 outputs a response signal and turns of the light-emitting diode 48 (Step 64). Thus, a binder con-taining the desired cllnical records and other data can be located with ease.
The response signal indicating the presence of a binder is sent from the signal lines 25 and 26 through the cables 15, 16 and 17 to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 and host computer 1.
On receiving the response signal, the host computer 1 shows on the display 4 that the desired file has been found and transmits the incidental information of the same patlent, such as the receipt number and the level of emergenay, through the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17 and the signal lines 23 and 24 to each retrieval unit 40.
While all retrieval units can receive this incidental information (Step 65), only the retrieval unit 40 whose "
20983~7 ~ ~
identifying data coincides with the retrieval identifying ~-data stores the incidental information in the data storage circult 55 thereof. The information stored in the data storage circuit 55 is shown on the display panel 47 actu~
ated by the display drive circult 56 (Step 66).
When the desired binder is extracted from the con-talners 10 to 13, the contacts 41 and 42 on the retrleval unit 40 thereof are disconnected from the feeder lines 21 and 22, whereupon the supply of power to the receiving clrcult 50, comparing circuit 51, response signal trans-mitting circuit 53 and power supply circuit 57 is cut off (Step 67). The power supply circuit 57 supplies electric current from the battery 58 to the data storage circuit 55 ... ..
and display drive circuit 56 (Step 68). Thus the informa-tion stored in the data storage circuit 55 remains intact -and appears on the display panel 47. Then, the display panel 47 on the retrieval unit 40 continuously shows the ~ `
receipt number, level of emergency and other incidental information of the patient. The clinical records and x-ray photographs contalned in the located binder can thus be easily sent to a proper place.
When a binder containing the used clinical records and x-ray photographs is returned onto any one of the shelves 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 in the containers 10, 11, 12 and 13, the contacts 41 and 42 on the retrieval ~ ' ''-'`,`'.;~.`'''.,'```''" ' 2~9~7 unit 40 thereon come in contact with the feeder lines 21 and 22 to receive the supply of electricity therefrom. On detecting the supply of electricity from the feeder lines 21 and 22 (Step 69), the power supply clrcuit 57 cuts off the supply of electricity from the battery 58. When the supply of electricity from the feeder lines 21 and 22 is resumed, the response signal transmitting circuit 53 initiates a response signal representing the identifying data stored in the identifying data storage circuit 52 (Step 70). With the arrival of the response signal through the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17, the host computer 1 learns, and registers, the fact that the extracted binder has been returned to the original position.
Such provlsion may be made that the information stored in the data storage circuit 55 is erased when the retrieval unit 40 is returned into the container 10, 11, 12 or 13, either automatically or by recording the next incidental informatlon from the host computer 1 in a "wrlte over" mode.
When the ldentlfying data for inspection ls input from the card reader 2 or keyboard 3 on completion of the work of a day, the display shows the identifying data and incldental lnformatlon of the retrleval unlt 40 of any binder not returned to the contalners 10 to 13. Then, the misslng blnder can be easily located on the basis of the ~ ; . . :
2~9~3~7 incidental information. All this permits a sure control over the whole steps of a retrieval work from the extrac- ~
tion of a file to the return thereof. While the embodi- -ment described here is applied to the retrieval of clini-cal records at hospital, the apparatus of thls invention ls also applicable to the retrieval of paper binders, books and other documents, and other articles of given shapes. ~ -~
The battery used to actuate the data storage and -display drive circuits of the retrieval unit of the em-bodiment ~ust described may be replaced, when used in a well-lit place, by a built-in power supply that consists of a combination of a solar battery and a supercapacitor.
' .' .
, . . ~ , , . : ~ - : :
SPECIFICATION
Title of the Invention `-Apparatus for Controlling File Retrieval Backqround of the Invention This invention relates to apparatus for retrieving a desired file binder out of a large number of file binders stored on a shelf.
A large number of document files, such as those of clinical records, are arranged in the order of, for in-stance, serial numbers and stored in a shelf for ease of retrieval. When a patient comes to hospital for examina-tion or treatment, his record file is manually extracted from the shelf.
A file retrieval system disclosed in Japanese Provi- -sional Patent Publication No. 8105 of 1990 facilitates the retrieval of many files by the use of a retrieval unit consisting of a battery-powered signal receiving element and a light-emitting element to display the received signal that is attached to a file binder and a host trans-mitter that sends an slectromagnetlc wave carrying a retrieval identifying signal to the receiving units on the ~ -stored file binders. When the host transmitter sends a specific identifying signal, the receiving units on all stored files receive the transmitted identifying signal but only one light-emittlng element corresponding to the ~:
. ~
- ,.. ~. . .. -- , . -- -; :
: ~' , . , ' : . :
.~ . .. .
209~3A7 emitted specific signal goes on. By finding out the glowing light-emitting element, the desired file binder can be extracted quickly.
However, this system necessitates periodic changing of batteries on which the signal-receiving unit and light-emitting element are dependent. As the retrieval informa-tion flows unidirectionally from the host transmitter to the retrleval unit, it is impossible to ensure that the extracted file binder is properly returned to the original position. This shortcoming can result in the missing of the extracted file binder.
Summarv of the Invention The ob~ect of this invention is to provide a new battery-less file retrieval controlling apparatus working on externally supplied electricity that is also capable of controlling the restoring of extracted file binders.
A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to this inventlon comprises a retriever proper that retrieves and transmlts a retrieval identifying data based on a re- -trieval instruction input from outside, a retrieval unit having a memory that holds a set of retrieval identifying data allocated to individual binders, a comparator that compares the received retrieval identifying data with the set of data stored in the memory and outputs a coincidence ;~
signal when a matching data is found, a response signal :- ' ' -: ~ . -: . . ~
.. . ~ . , . ... :.
~- 20~83~7 generator that actuates an externally recognizable display accordlng to the coincidence signal and outputs a response signal, contacts connected to feeder lines to feed elec-tricity to the retriever proper, memory and comparator and contacts connected to signal lines and attached to each ; -`
blnder, and a file container having feeder lines disposed parallel to each other along the row of binders and signal lines to transmit the signals from the retriever proper and the retrieval unit.
When the retriever proper sends a retrieval identi-fying data through a transmission line to the retrieval units that are constantly powered by an external power supply and on stand-by, the display of a retrieval unit conforming to the transmitted data goes on. Thus, a binder containing the desired file can be readily located by finding the glowing display. Besides, the retriever proper can confirm the presence of the binder conforming to the retrieval identification data based on a response signal the retrieval unit initiates when the display goes on.
Brief DescriDtion of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a preferred embodi-ment of a retrieval unit according to this invention.
Fig. 2 shows the configuration of a file retrieval con-trolling apparatus according to this invention. Fig. 3 is , ~ , . . . . .
~,~,,,,,,"
.
.
2~983~7 a perspective view showing the wiring in a binder holder and the appearance of a retrieval unit. Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing the operation of the same file retrieval controlling apparatus.
DescriDtion of the Preferred Embodiment Now details of this invention will be described below by making reference to a preferred embodiment of this invention applied to the binders containing clinical records.
Fig. 2 sketches an apparatus according to this inven-tlon. Reference numeral 1 designates a host computer that serves as a retriever proper, to whlch a card reader 2 to read the identification bard of a patient and a keyboard 3 to input the identifying data, such as the identification number of the patient, order of retrieval request, and priority of retrieval, to specify a binder or folder containing clinical records, x-ray photographs, etc. When the identifying data of a patient is read from his or her identlfication card inserted in the card reader 2 or input from the keyboard 3, the host computer 1 retrleves the . . .
personal informatlon of the patlent from a data base -stored thereln and shows the obtained data on a display 4.
When the cllnlcal records of the patlent ls necessary, an lnput of a pertlnent lnstructlon form the keyboard 3 results in an output of a retrieval ldentlfylng data for :
-- 20983~7 use in the retrieval of a binding or folder containing the - -desired clinical records. Intended for use with a large number of binders, the embodiment just described consti-tutes a distributed processing system in conjunction with sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 linked through cables 5. Obvi-ously, a simpler system for smaller applications can be composed by the use of one computer.
Reference numerals 10, 11, 12, 13, ... designate file containers each of which carries a binder holding clinical records and x-ray photographs and is connected to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 through cables 15, 16 and 17. The flle containers 10, 11, 12, 13, ... are partitioned into ~-several rows by shelves 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 so that a number of binders are contained in each row. Each of the file containers 10, 11, 12, 13, ... has a power supply 30, 31, 32 and 33 attached thereto. Bare feeder lines 21 and 22 connected to power supplies 30, 31, 32 and 33 and ~--signal wires 23, 24, 25 and 26 connected to cables 15, 16 and 17 from the computers 15, 16 and 17, which are dis-posed parallel to one another in the direction in which binders are arranged so as not cause short-circuiting, are provided at the surface of a holding shelf 20.
Reference numeral 40 designates a retrieval unit that can be freely attached to and detached from a binder F of practically all commercially available types that holds -- - - . .
- .. ~ : ,, ::,,, . :
' .. .. -~. '' . .. - ~ ~: .
.... .
: ~: ... ,.. , - ~ -.: ' ! '-:
,: : :
'.; ' ~. ~' ~ , , .:
' ~ ~ ' : ''' -: .
: ,,:
20983~7 documents as shown in Fig. 3. The retrieval unit 40 is adapted to be fastened in a position, such as at the bottom of the binder used in the embodiment being de-scribed, where the unit comes ln contact with the feeder llnes 21 and 22 and the signal lines 23, 24, 25 and 26 and has contacts 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 and 46 disposed at the bottom thereof. Thus, the retrleval unit 40 receives power supply from the feeder lines 41 and 42 and the retrieval identifying data and accompanying information from the signal lines 23 and 24 and outputs signals from a response signal transmitting circuit 53 to be described ~-later through the signal lines 25 and 26 and the cables 15, 16 and 17 to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8. -. .-:
The retrieval unit 40 also has a visually perceptible display, such as a light-emitting diode 48, to show the coincidence between the stored and received retrieval data at the back of the binder F that is exposed to view when the binder F is placed on the shelves 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20, together with, as required, a display panel 47 ~-using a liquid-crystal display or an electrochromic dis-play that retains, once activated, the displayed image even after the applied power has been cut off.
Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the retrieval unit 4~ ;
described above. Reference numeral 50 denotes a receiving ~ -aircult that recelves slgnals from the slgnal lines 23 and -:
~,' '' ' .. : : ' ' ' :
- 20983~
24 through contacts 43 and 44 and outputs the retrieval identifying data to a comparing circuit 51 and the serial number indicating the order of acceptance and such accom-panying information as the priorlty of retrieval to a data storage circuit 55 to be described later. Reference numeral 52 denotes an identifying data storage circuit consisting of a read-only memory that stores the identify-ing data assigned to each retrieval unit. The comparing circuit 51 compares the retrieval identifying data from the receiving circuit 50 with the identifying data in the ldentifying data storage circuit 52 and outputs a signal when the compared data coincide.
The response signal transmitting circuit 52 outputs a response signal through the contacts 45 and 46 when the comparing circuit 51 outputs a coincidence signal and to show the presence of the identifying data in the iden-tifying data storage circuit 52 and the binders on the shelves when power is first supplied through the feeder lines 21 and 22, and actuates, as re~uired, an aurally or vlsually perceptible display such as the light-emitting diode 48 used in the embodiment being described.
The data storage circuit 55 stores the accompanying information for each file that is received following the retrieval identlfying data when the comparing circuit 51 outputs a coincidence signal and then output to a display .
, 209~3A 7 drive circuit 56. - :
The essential elements of the retrieval unit 40, such as the receiving circuit 50, comparing circuit 51 and response signal transmitting circuit 53, are powered by electric current supplied from the feeder lines 21 and 22. ~ ~ :
On the other hand, such incidental elements as the data storage clrcuit 55 and display drive circuit 56 are selec- -tively powered by electric current supplied through a ~:
power supply circuit 57 either from the feeder lines 21 ~-and 22 or from a built-in battery 58.
When the retrieval unit 40 receives the supply of electric current from an external source through the feeder lines 21 and 22, the power supply circuit 57 cuts the connection between the data storage circuit 55 and ~ ::
display drive circuit 56 and the battery 58 to feed the - :-~
power from the feeder lines 21 and 22 to the data storage ~ .
circuit 55 and display drive circuit 56. When a binder .
has been extracted from the finder containers 10 to 13 and the power supply from the feeder lines 21 and 22 i8 cut off, the power supply circuit 57 supplies electric current . u to the data storage clrcult 55 and dlsplay drive circuit 56 only from the battery 58.
When a chargeable secondary battery, such as a lithi-um battery or a nlckel-cadmlum battery, is used as the battery 58, a floatlng charglng function may be added to ~ , ',' ,~
.
209~'g7 the power supply circuit so that the battery is charged while power is supplied from the feeder lines 21 and 22.
Now the operation of the apparatus just described will be described by making reference to a flow chart shown in Fig. 4. ;~
On inputting an identifying data for inspection from the keyboard 3 or card reader 2 (Step 60) before starting `
the work of a day, the host computer 1 transmits an identifying data to inspect throughout all binders. The `~
retrieval units 40 on the binders held in position are supplied with power from the feeder lines 21 and 22 and, - ;
therefore, sends out a response signal on receiving the identlfying instruction for inspection and turn on the light-emitting diode 48 (Step 61).
Any irregular space visually found between the glow-ing light-emitting diodes 48 on the retrieval units 40 on the files held in the file containers 10 to 13 suggests a possibility that the binder there is out of position. If that is the case, the displaced binder is returned to its proper position. A search must be made for any missing binder. When the binders slightly gotten out of place in the containers 10, 11, 12 and 13 are properly reset, the contacts 41 and 42 on the retrieval unit 40 come in con-tact with the feeder lines 21 and 22, thereby assuring the supply of power to the receiving circuit 50, comparing 2~9~3~7 :-:
circuit 51 and response signal transmitting circuit 53.
When the receiving circuit 50 receives the identi$ying data for inspection, the response signal transmitting -circuit 53 sends out a response signal and the light-emitting diode 48 goes on to show that the displaced binder has been brought back to its proper position.
The response signal initiated by the retrieval unit 40 passes through the contacts 45 and 46 to the signal lines 25 and 26 and further through the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17 to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 and host computer .
1. With the result of the inspection shown on the display -4, the condition of the contained files can be checked ~ -from either the host oomputer 1 or the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8.
On inserting an identification card of a patient into the card reader 2 following the completion of the prelimi-nary inspection described above, the host computer 1 recognizes the identifying data contained therein and shows the name and other retrieval identifying data of the patient on the dlsplay 4. The receipt number, level of emergency and other incidental information of the same :
patient then lnput from the keyboard 3 are displayed on the dlsplay 4 and slmultaneously sent through the sub- -.
computers 6, 7 and 8 and the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17 to -the containers 10, 11, 12 and 13. The retrieval units 40 -~ ~
'~' 2 ~ 7 on all binders held in the containers 10 to 13 receive the transmitted retrieval identifying data through the signal lines 22 and 23 (Step 62).
The comparing circuit 51 in each retrieval unit 40 compares the retrieval identifying data from the receiving ~ :
circult 50 with the ldentifying data in the identifying data storage circuit 52 and outputs a coincidence signal when the compared data coincide (Step 63). On receiving the coincidence signal, the response signal transmitting circuit 53 outputs a response signal and turns of the light-emitting diode 48 (Step 64). Thus, a binder con-taining the desired cllnical records and other data can be located with ease.
The response signal indicating the presence of a binder is sent from the signal lines 25 and 26 through the cables 15, 16 and 17 to the sub-computers 6, 7 and 8 and host computer 1.
On receiving the response signal, the host computer 1 shows on the display 4 that the desired file has been found and transmits the incidental information of the same patlent, such as the receipt number and the level of emergenay, through the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17 and the signal lines 23 and 24 to each retrieval unit 40.
While all retrieval units can receive this incidental information (Step 65), only the retrieval unit 40 whose "
20983~7 ~ ~
identifying data coincides with the retrieval identifying ~-data stores the incidental information in the data storage circult 55 thereof. The information stored in the data storage circuit 55 is shown on the display panel 47 actu~
ated by the display drive circult 56 (Step 66).
When the desired binder is extracted from the con-talners 10 to 13, the contacts 41 and 42 on the retrleval unit 40 thereof are disconnected from the feeder lines 21 and 22, whereupon the supply of power to the receiving clrcult 50, comparing circuit 51, response signal trans-mitting circuit 53 and power supply circuit 57 is cut off (Step 67). The power supply circuit 57 supplies electric current from the battery 58 to the data storage circuit 55 ... ..
and display drive circuit 56 (Step 68). Thus the informa-tion stored in the data storage circuit 55 remains intact -and appears on the display panel 47. Then, the display panel 47 on the retrieval unit 40 continuously shows the ~ `
receipt number, level of emergency and other incidental information of the patient. The clinical records and x-ray photographs contalned in the located binder can thus be easily sent to a proper place.
When a binder containing the used clinical records and x-ray photographs is returned onto any one of the shelves 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 in the containers 10, 11, 12 and 13, the contacts 41 and 42 on the retrieval ~ ' ''-'`,`'.;~.`'''.,'```''" ' 2~9~7 unit 40 thereon come in contact with the feeder lines 21 and 22 to receive the supply of electricity therefrom. On detecting the supply of electricity from the feeder lines 21 and 22 (Step 69), the power supply clrcuit 57 cuts off the supply of electricity from the battery 58. When the supply of electricity from the feeder lines 21 and 22 is resumed, the response signal transmitting circuit 53 initiates a response signal representing the identifying data stored in the identifying data storage circuit 52 (Step 70). With the arrival of the response signal through the cables 5, 15, 16 and 17, the host computer 1 learns, and registers, the fact that the extracted binder has been returned to the original position.
Such provlsion may be made that the information stored in the data storage circuit 55 is erased when the retrieval unit 40 is returned into the container 10, 11, 12 or 13, either automatically or by recording the next incidental informatlon from the host computer 1 in a "wrlte over" mode.
When the ldentlfying data for inspection ls input from the card reader 2 or keyboard 3 on completion of the work of a day, the display shows the identifying data and incldental lnformatlon of the retrleval unlt 40 of any binder not returned to the contalners 10 to 13. Then, the misslng blnder can be easily located on the basis of the ~ ; . . :
2~9~3~7 incidental information. All this permits a sure control over the whole steps of a retrieval work from the extrac- ~
tion of a file to the return thereof. While the embodi- -ment described here is applied to the retrieval of clini-cal records at hospital, the apparatus of thls invention ls also applicable to the retrieval of paper binders, books and other documents, and other articles of given shapes. ~ -~
The battery used to actuate the data storage and -display drive circuits of the retrieval unit of the em-bodiment ~ust described may be replaced, when used in a well-lit place, by a built-in power supply that consists of a combination of a solar battery and a supercapacitor.
' .' .
, . . ~ , , . : ~ - : :
Claims
Claims What is claimed is:
(1) A file retrieval controlling apparatus compris-ing:
a retriever proper retrieving and transmitting a retrieval identifying data of a binder containing a de-sired document based on a retrieval data input from out-side;
a retrieval unit having a memory that holds a set of retrieval identifying data allocated to individual bind-ers, a comparator that compares the received retrieval identifying data with the set of data stored in the memory and outputs a coincidence signal when a matching data is found, a response signal generator that actuates exter-nally recognizable display according to the coincidence signal and outputs a response signal, contacts connected to feeder lines to feed electricity to the retriever proper, memory and comparator and contacts connected to signal lines and attached to each binder; and a file container having feeder lines disposed paral-lel to each other along the row of binders and signal lines to transmit the signals from the retriever proper and the retrieval unit.
(2) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 1, in which the retrieval unit can be freely attached to and detached from a binder.
(3) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 1 and 2, in which the recognizable display con-sists of a light-emitting diode disposed in a readily visible place on a binder placed in the container.
(4) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 1, in which the retriever proper outputs an identifying data for inspection covering all binders.
(5) A file retrieval controlling apparatus compris-ing:
a retriever proper retrieving and transmitting a retrieval identifying data of a binder containing a de-sired document based on a retrieval data input from out-side;
a retrieval unit having a memory that holds a set of retrieval identifying data allocated to individual bind-ers, a comparator that compares the received retrieval identifying data with the set of data stored in the memory and outputs a coincidence signal when a matching data is found, a response signal generator that actuates a first externally recognizable display according to the coinci-dence signal and outputs a response signal, a data storage storing the information from the retriever proper when the coincidence signal is output, a second display indicating the data stored in the data storage, a power supply to feed electricity to the data storage and second display, contacts connected to feeder lines to feed electricity to the retriever proper, memory and comparator and contacts connected to signal lines and attached to each binder: and a file container having feeder lines disposed paral-lel to each other along the row of binders and signal lines to transmit the signals from the retriever proper and the retrieval unit.
(6) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 5, in which the second display consists of a liquid-crystal display panel or an electrochromic display panel.
(7) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 6, in which the power supply consists of a bat-tery that feeds electricity to the data storage when the supply of electricity from the feeder lines is cut off.
(1) A file retrieval controlling apparatus compris-ing:
a retriever proper retrieving and transmitting a retrieval identifying data of a binder containing a de-sired document based on a retrieval data input from out-side;
a retrieval unit having a memory that holds a set of retrieval identifying data allocated to individual bind-ers, a comparator that compares the received retrieval identifying data with the set of data stored in the memory and outputs a coincidence signal when a matching data is found, a response signal generator that actuates exter-nally recognizable display according to the coincidence signal and outputs a response signal, contacts connected to feeder lines to feed electricity to the retriever proper, memory and comparator and contacts connected to signal lines and attached to each binder; and a file container having feeder lines disposed paral-lel to each other along the row of binders and signal lines to transmit the signals from the retriever proper and the retrieval unit.
(2) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 1, in which the retrieval unit can be freely attached to and detached from a binder.
(3) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 1 and 2, in which the recognizable display con-sists of a light-emitting diode disposed in a readily visible place on a binder placed in the container.
(4) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 1, in which the retriever proper outputs an identifying data for inspection covering all binders.
(5) A file retrieval controlling apparatus compris-ing:
a retriever proper retrieving and transmitting a retrieval identifying data of a binder containing a de-sired document based on a retrieval data input from out-side;
a retrieval unit having a memory that holds a set of retrieval identifying data allocated to individual bind-ers, a comparator that compares the received retrieval identifying data with the set of data stored in the memory and outputs a coincidence signal when a matching data is found, a response signal generator that actuates a first externally recognizable display according to the coinci-dence signal and outputs a response signal, a data storage storing the information from the retriever proper when the coincidence signal is output, a second display indicating the data stored in the data storage, a power supply to feed electricity to the data storage and second display, contacts connected to feeder lines to feed electricity to the retriever proper, memory and comparator and contacts connected to signal lines and attached to each binder: and a file container having feeder lines disposed paral-lel to each other along the row of binders and signal lines to transmit the signals from the retriever proper and the retrieval unit.
(6) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 5, in which the second display consists of a liquid-crystal display panel or an electrochromic display panel.
(7) A file retrieval controlling apparatus according to claim 6, in which the power supply consists of a bat-tery that feeds electricity to the data storage when the supply of electricity from the feeder lines is cut off.
Priority Applications (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002098347A CA2098347A1 (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-06-14 | Apparatus for controlling file retrieval |
| FR9308123A FR2707121B1 (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-02 | Record search control apparatus. |
| GB9313973A GB2279789A (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-06 | File retrieval |
| DE4322500A DE4322500A1 (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-06 | Control apparatus for the retrieval of files |
| NL9301194A NL9301194A (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-08 | Device for controlling file retrieval. |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002098347A CA2098347A1 (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-06-14 | Apparatus for controlling file retrieval |
| FR9308123A FR2707121B1 (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-02 | Record search control apparatus. |
| GB9313973A GB2279789A (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-06 | File retrieval |
| DE4322500A DE4322500A1 (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-06 | Control apparatus for the retrieval of files |
| NL9301194A NL9301194A (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-07-08 | Device for controlling file retrieval. |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2098347A1 true CA2098347A1 (en) | 1994-12-15 |
Family
ID=27508510
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002098347A Abandoned CA2098347A1 (en) | 1993-06-14 | 1993-06-14 | Apparatus for controlling file retrieval |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2098347A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE4322500A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2707121B1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2279789A (en) |
| NL (1) | NL9301194A (en) |
Families Citing this family (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2729238B1 (en) * | 1995-01-10 | 1997-03-14 | Henley Trading Ltd | ELECTRONIC LABEL FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION ON THE NATURE OR CONTENT OF OBJECTS, AND FOR SIGNALING SUCH OBJECTS |
| US7079044B1 (en) | 1995-01-27 | 2006-07-18 | Steelcase Development Corporation | Electronic system, components and method for tracking files |
| US5751221A (en) * | 1995-01-27 | 1998-05-12 | Steelcase Inc. | Electronic system, components and method for tracking files |
| DE19812883A1 (en) * | 1998-03-17 | 1999-10-14 | Axel Bartsch | Identification of objects using addressable transponders |
| DE19812908A1 (en) * | 1998-03-18 | 1999-09-23 | Bb Data Inf & Komm Syst Gmbh | Inventorying system with a data processing or communications unit |
| DE19856762A1 (en) * | 1998-11-30 | 2000-05-31 | Axel Bartsch | Electronic archiving device for files on shelf transmits visual light beam to transponder on required file |
| DE19856763C2 (en) * | 1998-11-30 | 2001-06-21 | Axel Bartsch | Electronic archiving device for objects, in particular files |
| DE19917223C2 (en) * | 1999-04-16 | 2001-02-15 | Margarethe Habbel | Arrangement for locating files |
| DE19959527A1 (en) * | 1999-12-11 | 2001-08-30 | Sander Pebueso Gmbh & Co Kg | System for handling cemetery information consists of individual coded memories with transmitters and receivers on individual graves to pick up and relay desired information on the graves |
| DE102004050828A1 (en) * | 2004-10-19 | 2006-05-11 | Werner Fries | System for storing and accessing of files and other organizing means utilizes a coordinate system for specification of shelf positions |
| DE102005014363B4 (en) * | 2005-03-30 | 2011-01-27 | Fries, Werner, Dipl.-Ing. | Label system for marking folders and their location |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2466810A1 (en) * | 1979-10-05 | 1981-04-10 | Kott Jacques | SYSTEM FOR SEARCHING CLASSIFIEDLY CLASSIFIED DOCUMENTS |
| FR2592012A1 (en) * | 1985-12-23 | 1987-06-26 | Vidal Gilbert | Storage installation, especially archiving installation, equipped with an automated search device, and document archiving file able to be used in such an installation |
| US4839875A (en) * | 1986-05-19 | 1989-06-13 | Anritsu Corporation | Technique for automatic tracking of cassette rentals and managing of information related thereto |
| JP2593319B2 (en) * | 1987-10-09 | 1997-03-26 | 株式会社アサヒ電子研究所 | Individual search device for objects to be searched, such as files |
| JPH02186480A (en) * | 1989-01-12 | 1990-07-20 | Nec Corp | Housing object retrieving and housing box |
| FR2667183A1 (en) * | 1990-09-20 | 1992-03-27 | Treillet Jacques | Device for classifying and searching for objects in a specified space |
-
1993
- 1993-06-14 CA CA002098347A patent/CA2098347A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1993-07-02 FR FR9308123A patent/FR2707121B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1993-07-06 DE DE4322500A patent/DE4322500A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1993-07-06 GB GB9313973A patent/GB2279789A/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1993-07-08 NL NL9301194A patent/NL9301194A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2279789A (en) | 1995-01-11 |
| DE4322500A1 (en) | 1995-03-16 |
| GB9313973D0 (en) | 1993-08-18 |
| FR2707121B1 (en) | 1997-01-31 |
| FR2707121A1 (en) | 1995-01-06 |
| NL9301194A (en) | 1995-02-01 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |