WO2021178273A1

WO2021178273A1 - Apparatus and methods for coupling electronic tag to fluid container

Info

Publication number: WO2021178273A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/020202
Authority: WO
Inventors: Walter S. HAUCK, III; Robert Zajeski; Jamison BRUCH
Original assignee: Pamplona Communications
Priority date: 2020-03-02
Filing date: 2021-03-01
Publication date: 2021-09-10

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for coupling an electronic tag to a fluid container are disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the apparatus comprises a housing, an electronic circuit and a collar coupled to the housing. In particular embodiments, the collar comprises a fixed portion coupled to the housing, and the collar comprises a pivoting portion coupled to the fixed portion via a pivot. The pivoting portion is configured to pivot from an open position to a closed position.

Description

DESCRIPTION

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR COUPLING ELECTRONIC TAG

TO FLUID CONTAINER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 2/984,209 filed March 2, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

COPYRIGHT RIGHTS

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction by any one of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the patent and trademark office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to a device, more particularly, to a novel device which can accommodate a radio-based electronic tag and can be simply and securely affixed to a fluid container by a user.

BACKGROUND

[0003] In various industries, containers are used to store a fluid. The fluid may be a liquid or gas. The containers with the attending fluid may be stored in a facility, or transported between facilities, under certain conditions. In these industries it may be beneficial to monitor certain attributes of the container as well as track its location. It may also be beneficial for a system to facilitate location and identification of a specific container within a large group of containers, including thousands of containers in a harsh environment (e.g., in below freezing conditions).

[0004] The emergence of the “Internet of Things” (IoT) has enabled wireless computing devices embedded or associated with items/objects, herein after referred to as “smart tags”, to wirelessly communicate data relating to the items/objects to corporate servers and/or cloud computing servers. From these servers the transmitted data can be presented in various end-user dashboards such as an alarm, a mobile phone, a computer screen, etc. The smart tags may include various sensors including but not limited to temperature, accelerometer, compass, etc. Conventionally, sensor output is transmitted wirelessly to a hub/gateway which aggregates and/or relays the received data to the aforementioned servers. In certain IoT systems, the hub/gateway may also command smart tags to take certain actions including but not limited to: activate/deactivate a one or more LEDs, activate/deactivate an audible signal, throw a switch, etc. Smart tags are optionally configured in an enclosure which enables the smart tag to be attached/associated with an object/container of interest.

[0005] In the medical/pharmaceutical industry blood plasma donations are collected from donors and placed into blood plasma collection containers. The blood plasma is frozen and eventually processed as a key ingredient in the manufacture of a variety of medications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] An aspect of the disclosure relates to a device designed to enable a smart tag to be associated with a container of interest. An important attribute of the disclosed device is that the geometry at that the widest element of the device can fit within the diameter of existing containers, including for example, blood plasma collection containers. The example device embodiments described herein enable the introduction of smart tags into conventional work flows and container cycles with minimal change to existing system and methods.

[0007] Optionally, the device example embodiments are illustrated in the context of blood plasma tracking and monitoring. Optionally, the wireless smart tag used in the example embodiments herein employs a sub-GHz radio technology, Bluetooth, LoRa, or other short to long range wireless technologies.

[0008] Certain embodiments include an apparatus for coupling an electronic tag to a fluid container, where the apparatus comprises a housing, an electronic circuit, and a collar coupled to the housing. In particular embodiments, the collar comprises a fixed portion coupled to the housing, and the collar comprises a pivoting portion coupled to the fixed portion via a pivot. In some embodiments the pivoting portion is configured to pivot from an open position to a closed position, and the pivoting portion comprises a latching mechanism configured to latch the pivoting portion to the fixed portion when the pivoting portion is in the closed position. In specific embodiments, the pivoting portion comprises a first electrical contact, the fixed portion comprises a second electrical contact, and the electronic circuit is configured to detect if the first electrical contact is separated from the second electrical contact. In certain embodiments the collar is configured to extend around the fluid container when the collar is in the closed position. In particular embodiments the fluid container comprises a body portion with a first diameter, the collar has a second diameter when the collar is in the closed position, and the second diameter is less than or equal to the first diameter.

[0009] In some embodiments the fluid container contains a blood product, including for example blood plasma. In particular embodiments, the housing comprises a transparent or translucent panel. In some embodiments the electronic tag comprises a status indicator, and the status indicator is visible through the transparent or translucent panel. In specific embodiments the apparatus comprises an activation mechanism configured to activate the electronic tag. In certain embodiments the housing comprises a seal configured to prevent fluid from entering the housing. [0010] In particular embodiments the seal is impervious to a hospital-grade cleaning solution. In some embodiments the hospital-grade cleaning solution is selected from the group consisting of formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, ortho-phthalaldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid and combinations thereof. In specific embodiments the housing comprises a body portion and the housing comprises a removable cover configured to couple to the body portion. In certain embodiments the seal is positioned between the body portion and the removable cover when the removable cover is coupled to the body portion.

[0011] In particular embodiments the apparatus is formed from a material capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments the material is selected from the group consisting of nylon 66SA, polyurethan, acrylic and combinations thereof. In specific embodiments the electronic circuit is configured to detect if the first electrical contact is separated from the second electrical contact after the pivoting portion is moved from the open position to the closed position.

[0012] In particular embodiments the apparatus comprises a plurality of flexible members extending inward from the collar. In certain embodiments each of the plurality of flexible members are curved in the direction of the collar. In some embodiments each of the plurality of flexible members comprise an enlarged end portion distal from the collar. In specific embodiments the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are proximal to the latching mechanism. In certain embodiments the housing and the collar are substantially perpendicular.

[0013] Particular embodiments include a method of coupling an electronic tag to a fluid container. In some embodiments, the method comprises: obtaining an apparatus according to the present disclosure (including for example, any of the claims contained in this disclosure); placing the electronic tag in the housing; and coupling the apparatus to the fluid container. [0014] In specific embodiments, coupling the apparatus to the fluid container comprises: positioning the pivoting portion of the collar in the open position; placing the fluid container between the pivoting portion of the collar and the fixed portion of the collar; moving the pivoting portion of the collar to the closed position; and engaging the latching mechanism to latch the pivoting portion of the collar to the fixed portion of the collar BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an apparatus according to the present disclosure with a collar in an open position.

[0016] Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the collar in the closed position. [0017] Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the collar in the closed position and the housing cover removed.

[0018] Fig. 4 illustrates a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the collar in the closed position.

[0019] Fig. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the collar in the closed position. [0020] Fig. 6 illustrates a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the collar in the closed position

[0021] Fig. 7 illustrates a back view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the collar in the closed position [0022] Fig. 8 illustrates a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 coupled to a fluid container.

[0023] Fig. 9 illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0024] Fig. 10 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0025] Fig. 11 illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0026] Fig. 12 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container. [0027] Fig. 13 illustrates an example embodiment of a novel smart tag device in an enclosure fitting onto the diameter of two types of containers.

[0028] Fig. 14 illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0029] Fig. 15 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0030] Fig. 16 illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0031] Fig. 17 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container. [0032] Fig. 18 illustrates an example embodiment of a novel smart tag device in an enclosure fitting onto the diameter of two types of containers.

[0033] Fig. 19 illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container. [0034] Fig. 20 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0035] Fig. 21 illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0036] Fig. 22 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0037] Fig. 23 illustrates an example embodiment of a novel smart tag device in an enclosure fitting onto the diameter of two types of containers.

[0038] Fig. 24 illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container. [0039] Fig. 25 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0040] Fig. 26 illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0041] Fig. 27 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0042] Fig. 28 illustrates an example embodiment of a novel smart tag device in an enclosure fitting onto the diameter of two types of containers.

[0043] Fig. 29 illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container. [0044] Fig. 30 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0045] Fig. 31 illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container. [0046] Fig. 32 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0047] Fig. 33 illustrates an example embodiment of a novel smart tag device in an enclosure fitting onto the diameter of two types of containers.

[0048] Fig. 34 illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0049] Fig. 35 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0050] Fig. 36 illustrates a top view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container. [0051] Fig. 37 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0052] Fig. 38 illustrates an example embodiment of a novel smart tag device in an enclosure fitting onto the diameter of two types of containers.

[0053] Fig. 39 illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

[0054] Fig. 40 illustrates a bottom view of an example embodiment of a novel smart tag enclosure attachable to a container.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] The detailed description of a smart tag device and enclosure design herein is presented in the context of attachment of a smart tag to blood plasma collection containers. Optionally, the disclosed device may be used on other industrial containers known to those skilled in the art of manufacturing, supply chain logistics, oil and gas production, hospitals, warehousing, etc. Furthermore, the devices herein are generally described as attaching to the neck of a container but the devices may be attached to other locations of a container as well.

[0056] An aspect of this disclosure relates generally to devices associated with containers, and in particular, blood plasma collection and storage containers. The devices optionally may be comprised of two elements; an enclosure that secures a smart tag, and a clip mechanism for attaching the enclosure to the plasma container. Advantageously, in some example embodiments the devices do not extend beyond the diameter of the container nor protrude above the height of a plasma container. This limits device mechanical interference when a user affixes a plasma collection container to, and removes from, a plasmapheresis machine. This geometry constraint is also an important attribute in the storage and placement of plasma collection containers in freezers. This geometry constraint further enables collection container boxing and packing for shipment without device interference and/or change to existing boxing material and methods. In addition, the disclosed devices may be applied to a container by a user with a one-handed operation (i.e., one hand holding a plasma container and the other hand applying a device to the container). Also, as a plasma collection container may include various tubes protruding from the lid, the example embodiments herein enable the user to apply the device without having to string protruding tubes through the device during device application. Optionally, the disclosed device is configured to attach to the plasma container at the neck of the container. Conventionally, blood plasma containers are not filled to the top. Advantageously, some spacing between the fluid plasma and the smart tag may improve radio performance of the smart tag and simplify attachment and removal. In addition, in freezer storage areas with thousands of other containers, the performance of the radio communications with an associated hub/gateway may be subject to less object/container interference if the smart tag is located near the top of the container rather than at, for example, the bottom of the container. Optionally, the device is configured to securely attach to containers with slightly different neck diameters in the event different size containers and/or different container manufacturers are used by the same enterprise. Advantageously, the design focus is on minimalism to reduce material costs and device interference with existing practices and simple for a user to apply and remove. [0057] In an example embodiment, a wireless smart tag is associated with an empty collection container prior to blood plasma collection from a donor by the user (e.g., technician) sliding the clip over the neck of the container. The container and associated smart tag device are placed in a donor collection freezer for storage at, for example, -30 degrees centigrade. After a period of time (e.g., after plasma testing for certain attributes is completed) containers are removed from the freezer for transport to a fractionation facility. Optionally, a one or more visible LEDs are activated in the smart tag during tag-bottle association and disassociation, and assisting in identifying which plasma containers from a freezer full of thousands of plasma containers are to be selected for shipping. The selected containers are packed into boxes (e.g., 24 containers per box) and shipped to a fractionation facility. In an example embodiment, the smart tag monitors the temperature of the fluid container at the point of initial association to plasma removal from the container at a fractionation facility (where device disassociation may occur) or elsewhere (e.g., disposal facility). Prior to de-capping and removal of the plasma from the container the device is rapidly removed from the container by a technician gripping the container with one hand and the smart tag and enclosure device attachment clip with the other and pulling with force away from the container. Optionally, the smart tag and enclosure device may be removed robotically. Optionally, the smart tag and enclosure device is reusable, for example, up to 50 re-applications over several years (e.g. 3, 5, 7 years, etc.) Optionally, the smart tag battery is rechargeable including wirelessly rechargeable.

[0058] Referring initially to Figures. 1-8, an apparatus 100 for coupling an electronic tag

110 to a fluid container 170 is shown. For purposes of clarity, not all elements in each figure are labeled with a reference number. As described in further detail below, electronic tag 110 can perform a variety of monitoring functions, including for example, temperature, time, location, etc. In this embodiment apparatus 100 comprises a housing 120 and a collar 140 coupled to housing 120. Collar 140 comprises a fixed portion 142 coupled to housing 120. In addition, collar 140 comprises a pivoting portion 144 coupled to fixed portion 142 via a pivot 146. In the embodiment shown, pivoting portion 144 is configured to pivot from an open position shown in FIG.l to a closed position shown in Figures 2-5. In addition, pivoting portion 144 comprises a latching mechanism 150 configured to latch pivoting portion 144 to fixed portion 142 when pivoting portion 144 is in the closed position. [0059] In the illustrated embodiment, pivoting portion 144 comprises a first electrical contact 161 and fixed portion 142 comprises a second electrical contact 162 proximal to a latching mechanism 150. Apparatus 100 further comprises an electronic circuit 130 (shown in Figure 3) configured to detect if first electrical contact 161 is separated from the second electrical contact 162 after pivoting portion 144 is moved from the open position to the closed position.

Accordingly, apparatus 100 can detect if apparatus has been removed from fluid container 170 after apparatus 170 is initially coupled to fluid container 170.

[0060] For example, apparatus 100 can be coupled to fluid container 170 (e.g. as shown in

Figure 8) by positioning pivoting portion 144 of collar 140 in the open position shown in Figure 1. Fluid container 170 can then be placed between pivoting portion 144 and fixed portion 142 of collar 140. A user can then move pivoting portion 144 of collar 142 to the closed position and engage latching mechanism 150 to latch pivoting portion 144 to fixed portion 142 of collar 140. In this manner collar 140 extends around fluid container 170 when collar 140 is in the closed position, and apparatus 100 is securely coupled to fluid container 170. The ability of apparatus 100 to detect if first electrical contact 161 is separated from the second electrical contact 162 can allow a user to determine if apparatus 100 has been removed from container 170 after apparatus 100 has been initially secured to container 170. This can provide additional measures to ensure that apparatus 100 has been coupled to container 170 to ensure the validity of monitoring functions of electronic tag 110 with respect to fluid container 170. [0061] As shown in Figure. 8, fluid container 170 comprises a body portion 171 with a first diameter Dl. In addition, collar 140 has a second diameter D2 when collar 140 is in the closed position as shown in FIG. 8. In this embodiment, second diameter D2 is less than or equal to first diameter Dl . Accordingly, apparatus 100 does not extend beyond first diameter Dl, which can allow typical fluid container handling apparatus to transport, process, etc. fluid container 170 while apparatus 100 is coupled to fluid container 170, which may contain a blood product (e.g. plasma) in certain embodiments.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3, electronic tag 110 may comprise a status indicator 131 that can be used to indicate a particular status, including for example, that monitored parameters are within acceptable limits or that electrical power is being provided to electronic tag 110. In specific embodiments, status indicator 131 may be an LED light that provides a status indicator based on the color of the light. As shown in Figure 1, housing 120 may comprise a transparent or translucent panel 132 positioned so that status indicator is visible through the transparent or translucent panel 132. Accordingly, a user can view the status of electronic tag 110 provided by status indicator 131 while electronic tag is contained within housing 120 and while apparatus 100 is coupled to fluid container 170. In the embodiment shown, apparatus 100 comprises an activation mechanism 125 configured to activate electronic tag 110. This can allow electronic tag 110 to remain deactivated until a user activates electronic tag 110, e.g. by depressing activation mechanism 125, which can increase battery life for electronic tag 110. [0063] In the illustrated embodiment, apparatus 100 comprises housing 120 with a body portion 121 and a removable cover 122 configured to couple to body portion 121. As shown in Figure 3, housing 120 comprises a seal 123 configured to prevent fluid from entering housing 120. For purposes of clarity Figure 3 illustrates apparatus 100 with removable cover 122 removed. Seal 123 is positioned between body portion 121 and removable cover 122 when removable cover 122 is coupled to body portion 121 (e.g. as shown in Figure 1). In certain embodiments, housing 120 and seal 123 are impervious to hospital-grade cleaning solutions, including for example, formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, ortho-phthalaldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide/peracetic acid in combination. In particular embodiments, apparatus 100 may be formed from one or more materials capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius, including for example, nylon 66SA, polyurethane, or acrylic.

[0064] Apparatus 100 further comprises a plurality of flexible members 165 extending inward from collar 140 and curved in the direction of collar 140. Each of flexible members 165 further comprise an enlarged end portion 166 distal from collar 140. In this embodiment, flexible members 165 can allow apparatus 100 to engage a reduced diameter neck portion of fluid container 170 (e.g. as shown in Figure 8). In addition, housing 120 and collar 140 are substantially perpendicular as shown in Figure 8. This can allow collar 140 to extend around fluid container 170 and allow a user to view the top portion of housing 120 (e.g. removable cover 122) while apparatus 100 is coupled to fluid container 170. [0065] Figures 9, 10, 11 and 12 illustrate four views of an example embodiment of a device design which enables a smart tag X2100 to be associated with a container, including for example a blood plasma collection container. An example embodiment enclosure may comprise three elements, a smart tag holder base X2150, an enclosure cover X2200, and, a clip or attaching mechanism X2300.

[0066] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 9, a rigid or non-ridged (e.g., printed flexible label) circuit board smart tag X2100 with antenna X2400 is placed or mounted in the tag holder base X2150 and held in place for example by an attachment means including but not limited to: an adhesive, a clip, a plurality of clips, a transparent lid X2200, a semi-transparent lid X2200, a non-transparent lid with a light pipe centered over an LED, friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls, etc. In an example embodiment, a lid/cover X2200 is snuggly placed over the top of the tag holder base X2150. Friction forces between the side walls of the cover/lid X2200 and side walls of the holder base X2150 keep the lid from separating from the tag holder X2150. Optionally, the lid has notched ends to enable easy cover/lid X2200 removal (e.g., prying the cover/lid apart using a very small flathead screw driver head) for access to smart tag X2100.

[0067] In another example embodiment, a rigid circuit board smart tag X2100 is held in place with an attachment means as described above without a cover/lid X2200 and is retained by friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls. In another example embodiment, molding material is applied over a smart tag X2100 positioned in the tag holder X2150 to affix the smart tag to the holder X2150 to protect the tag from the environment (e.g., using an over mold process.)

[0068] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 9, the smart tag X2100 comprises certain electronics (e.g., processor, crystal, discreet components, coin cell battery holder, etc.) including a radio (e.g., a sub-GHz radio). Further with respect to Figure 9, a radio antenna of the smart tag X2100 is a component of the circuit board (e.g., a trace antenna around all or most of the edges of the board) and is not shown in Figure 9. Optionally, a coin cell battery and battery holder X2400 on PCB A X2100 is replaced with a flexible bag type battery which may be mounted on the front or the back of the smart tag or overlayed/underlayed on a portion of the clip mechanism X2300 (e.g., as illustrated in Figure 40 with bag type battery X35800) and may consist of various dimensions in length, width, depth depending upon battery technology used and power requirements. Optionally, in this example embodiment and other embodiments described herein, the battery and antenna are separated by insulation. In an example embodiment, the dimensions of the tag base and cover are a combined 1.5” x 0.5” x 0.25” (length, width, depth).

[0069] In this example embodiment the attachment mechanism or clip X2300 is illustrated in Figure 11. The clip X2300 is made of semi-flexible material including but not limited to thermoplastic and thermoset materials. The clip is C-clip shaped to enable the device with a user applied force to snap around, for example, the neck of the collection plasma container. The inner diameter of the clip X2300 in an unattached state matches the outer diameter of the attaching location of a collection plasma container. The clip is designed to flex outward on user application to allow engagement of the clip arms around the neck of the container The clip retracts to the clips un-attached shape when it is fully applied in order to fit securely around the container neck. Conventional collection plasma containers are manufactured using a soft plastic which enables slight deformation of the neck on application and removal. In a fully-filled plasma container configuration, the neck does not contain liquid or frozen plasma. Optionally, at both ends of the clips X2300 there are cutouts/hooks X4100, see Figure 11. Optionally, an elastic band, zip tie, or other band mechanism know to those skilled in the art of band mechanisms may be attached to the hooks X4100 to form a complete link around the container neck. A band provides additional tension force to form a snugger fit and to prevent unintended disconnection of the device from a container in boxing, shipping, unboxing steps in the plasma processing life cycle.

[0070] Figure 10 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X2150 and cover X2200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0071] Figure 11 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X2150 and cover X2200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0072] Figure 12 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X2150 and cover X2200) with clip/attachment mechanism. [0073] Figure 13 illustrates various views of an attachable smart tag device described in

Figures 9 - 12 attached to two different types of blood plasma containers. Figure 13 illustrates how the attachable smart tag device width fits within the dimensions of the diameter of the plasma container. In this example embodiment, the attachable smart tag device height fits just above the height of one type of the two types of plasma container. Depending upon the height overreach extent, this first example embodiment may not perform as well in short neck containers as other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0074] Figures 14, 15, 16 and 17 illustrate four views of an example embodiment of a device design which enables a smart tag X7100 to be associated with a container, including for example a blood plasma collection container. An example embodiment comprises four major elements, a smart tag holder base X7150, a clip or attaching mechanism X7300, and a smart tag X7100, and antenna X7500.

[0075] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 14, a rigid or non-ridged (e.g., printed flexible label) circuit board smart tag X7100 is placed or mounted in the tag holder base X7150 and held in place for example by an attachment means including but not limited to: an adhesive, a clip, a plurality of clips, a transparent lid X7200, a semi-transparent lid X7200, a non transparent lid with a light pipe centered over an LED, friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls, etc. In an example embodiment, a lid/cover X7200 is snuggly placed over the top of the tag holder base X7150. Friction forces between the side walls of the cover/lid X7200 and side walls of the holder base X7150 keep the lid from separating from the tag holder X7150. Optionally, the lid has notched ends to enable easy cover/lid X7200 removal (e.g., prying the cover/lid apart using a very small flathead screw driver head) for access to smart tag X7100.

[0076] In another example embodiment, a rigid circuit board smart tag X7100 is held in place with an attachment means as described above without a cover/lid X7200 and is retained by friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls. In another example embodiment, material is applied over a smart tag X7100 positioned in the tag holder X7150 to affix the smart tag to the holder X7150 to protect the tag from the environment (e.g., using an over mold process.)

[0077] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 14, the smart tag X7100 comprises certain electronics (e.g., processor, crystal, discreet components, coin cell battery holder X2400, etc.) including a radio (e.g., a sub-GHz radio). Optionally, a coin cell battery and battery holder X2400 on PCBA X2100 is replaced with a flexible bag type battery which may be mounted on the front or the back of the smart tag or overlayed/underlayed on a portion of the clip mechanism X7300 (e.g., as illustrated in Figure 40 with bag type battery X35800) and may consist of various dimensions in length, width, depth depending upon the battery technology used and power requirements.

[0078] Further with respect to X7, the radio antenna X7500 of the smart tag X7100 is embedded in or affixed to a portion or all of the clip or attachment mechanism X7300. In this example embodiment, the inclusion of the antenna as part of the clip/attachment mechanism reduces the size of the tag holder X7100 as compared to the tag holder X2200 in which the antenna is part of the smart tag X2100. Optionally, the tag holder X7100 is sized to accommodate various batteries including, for examples, a bag battery, a flexible battery, an eco-friendly battery, etc. This example embodiment includes all the advantages of the example embodiment of Figure 9 but also has the additional advantage of less physical interference (e.g., depending upon how the battery and holder are configured as a flexible bag battery may be configured in various dimensions) and easier user attachment and removal without potential damage to the tag holder X7100 (as there may be more clip attachment gripping area available to a user).

[0079] In this example embodiment the attachment mechanism or clip X7300 is illustrated in Figure 16 with an embedded antenna X7500. The clip X7300 is made of semi-flexible material including but not limited to thermoplastic and thermoset materials. The clip is C-clip shaped to enable the device with a user applied force to snap around, for example, the neck of the collection plasma container. The inner diameter of the clip X7300 in an unattached state matches the outer diameter of the attaching location of a collection plasma container. The clip is designed to flex outward on user application to allow engagement of the clip arms around the neck of the container. The clip retracts to the clips un-attached shape when it is fully applied in order to fit securely around the container neck. Conventional collection plasma containers are manufactured using a soft plastic which enables slight deformation of the neck on application and removal. In a fully-filled plasma container configuration, the neck does not contain liquid or frozen plasma. Optionally, at both ends of the clips X7300 there are cutouts/hooks X9100, see Figure 16. Optionally, an elastic band, zip tie, or other band mechanism know to those skilled in the art of band mechanisms may be attached to the hooks X9100 to form a complete link around the container neck. A band provides additional tension force to form a snugger fit and to prevent unintended disconnection of the device from a container in boxing, shipping, unboxing steps in the plasma processing life cycle. [0080] Figure 15 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X7150 and cover X7200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0081] Figure 16 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X7150 and cover X7200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0082] Figure 17 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X7150 and cover X7200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0083] Figure 18 illustrates various views of an attachable smart tag device described in

Figures 14 - 17 attached to two different types of blood plasma containers. Figure 18 illustrates how the attachable smart tag device dimensions fit within the dimensions of the diameter and height of the plasma containers. [0084] Figures 19, 20, 21 and 22 illustrate four views of an example embodiment of a device design which enables a smart tag X2100 to be associated with a container, including for example a blood plasma collection container. An example embodiment enclosure may comprise three elements, a smart tag enclosure holder base X12150, an enclosure cover X12200, and an attaching mechanism X12300. [0085] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 19, A rigid or non-ridged (e.g., printed flexible label) circuit board smart tag X2100 is placed or mounted in the tag holder X12150 and held in place for example by an attachment means including but not limited to: an adhesive, a clip, a plurality of clips, a transparent lid XI 2200, a semi-transparent lid XI 2200, a non-transparent lid with a light pipe centered over an LED, friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls, etc. In an example embodiment, a lid/cover XI 2200 is snuggly placed over the top of the tag holder base XI 2150. Friction forces between the side walls of the cover/lid X12200 and side walls of the holder base X12150 keep the lid from separating from the tag holder X12150. Optionally, the lid has notched ends to enable easy cover/lid X12200 removal (e.g., prying the cover/lid apart using a very small flathead screw driver head) for access to smart tag X2100.

[0086] In another example embodiment, a rigid circuit board smart tag X2100 is held in place with an attachment means as described above without a cover/lid XI 2200 and is retained by friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls. In another example embodiment, material is applied over a smart tag X2100 positioned in the tag holder XI 2150 to affix the smart tag to the holder X12150 to protect the tag from the environment (e.g., using an over mold process.)

[0087] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 19, optionally, a coin cell battery and battery holder X2400 on PCB A X2100 is replaced with a flexible bag type battery which may be mounted on the front or the back of the smart tag or overlayed/underlayed on a portion of the clip mechanism X12300 (e.g., as illustrated in Figure 40 with bag type battery X35800) and may consist of various dimensions in length, width, depth depending upon the battery technology used and power requirements. [0088] In this example embodiment a portion of the attachment mechanism XI 2300 is illustrated in Figure 21. The attachment mechanism X12300 is made of semi-flexible material including but not limited to thermoplastic and thermoset materials. The mechanism secures the enclosure base X12150 to the neck of the collection plasma container.

[0089] Figure 20 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X12150 and cover X12200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0090] Figure 21 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base XI 2150 and cover XI 2200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0091] Figure 22 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X12150 and cover X12200) with clip/attachment mechanism. [0092] Figure 23 illustrates various views of an attachable smart tag device described in

Figures 19 - 22 attached to two different types of blood plasma containers. In this example embodiment, the attachable smart tag device fits just above the height of one of the two types of plasma container. Depending upon the height overreach extent, this device may not perform as well in packaging as other devices disclosed herein.

[0093] Figures 24, 25, 26 and 27 illustrate four views of an example embodiment of a device design which enables a smart tag X2100 to be associated with a container, including for example a blood plasma collection container. An example embodiment enclosure may comprise three major elements, a smart tag holder base XI 7150, an enclosure cover XI 7200, and, an attaching mechanism XI 7300.

[0094] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 24, a rigid or non-ridged (e.g., printed flexible label) circuit board smart tag X2100 is placed or mounted in the tag holder X17150 and held in place for example by an attachment means including but not limited to: an adhesive, a clip, a plurality of clips, a transparent lid XI 7200, a semi-transparent lid XI 7200, a non-transparent lid with a light pipe centered over an LED, friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls, etc. In an example embodiment, a lid/cover XI 7200 is snuggly placed over the top of the tag holder base XI 7150. Friction forces between the side walls of the cover/lid XI 7200 and side walls of the holder base XI 7150 keep the lid from separating from the tag holder XI 7150. Optionally, the lid has notched ends to enable easy cover/lid XI 7200 removal (e.g., prying the cover/lid apart using a very small flathead screw driver head) for access to smart tag X2100.

[0095] In another example embodiment, a rigid circuit board smart tag X2100 is held in place with an attachment means as described above without a cover/lid XI 2200 and is retained by friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls. In another example embodiment, material is applied over a smart tag X2100 positioned in the tag holder XI 7150 to affix the smart tag to the holder X17150 to protect the tag from the environment (e.g., using an over mold process.) [0096] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 24, optionally, a coin cell battery and battery holder X2400 on PCBA X2100 is replaced with a flexible bag type battery which may be mounted on the front or the back of the smart tag and may consist of various dimensions in length, width, depth depending upon the battery technology used and power requirements. [0097] In this example embodiment a portion of the attachment mechanism XI 7300 is illustrated in Figure 26. The attachment mechanism XI 7300 is made of semi-flexible material including but not limited to thermoplastic and thermoset materials. The mechanism secures the enclosure base XI 7150 to the neck of the collection plasma container. [0098] Figure 25 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base XI 7150 and cover XI 7200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[0099] Figure 26 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base XI 7150 and cover XI 7200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[00100] Figure 27 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base XI 7150 and cover XI 7200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[00101] Figure 28 illustrates various views of an attachable smart tag device described in Figures 24 - 27 attached to two different types of blood plasma containers. In this example embodiment, the attachable smart tag device fits just outside the diameter of the two types of plasma container. Depending upon the diameter, this device may not perform as well in packaging as other devices disclosed herein.

[00102] Figures 29, 30, 31 and 32 illustrate four views of an example embodiment of a device design which enables a smart tag X2100 to be associated with a container, including for example a blood plasma collection container. An example embodiment enclosure may comprise three elements, a smart tag enclosure holder base X22150, an enclosure cover X22200, and an attaching mechanism X22300.

[00103] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 29, the smart tag X2100 is placed or mounted in the tag holder X22150 and held in place for example by an attachment means including but not limited to: an adhesive, a clip, a plurality of clips, a transparent lid X22200, a semi-transparent lid X22200, a non-transparent lid with a light pipe centered over an LED, friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls, etc. In an example embodiment, a lid/cover X22200 is snuggly placed over the top of the tag holder base X22150. Friction forces between the side walls of the cover/lid X22200 and side walls of the holder base X22150 keep the lid from separating from the tag holder X22150. Optionally, the lid has notched ends to enable easy cover/lid X22200 removal (e.g., prying the cover/lid apart using a very small flathead screw driver head) for access to smart tag X2100.

[00104] In another example embodiment, a rigid circuit board smart tag X2100 is held in place with an attachment means as described above without a cover/lid X22200 and is retained by friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls. In another example embodiment, material is applied over a smart tag X2100 positioned in the tag holder X22150 to affix the smart tag to the holder X22150 to protect the tag from the environment (e.g., using an over mold process.)

[00105] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 29, optionally, a coin cell battery and battery holder X2400 on PCB A X2100 is replaced with a flexible bag type battery which may be mounted on the front or the back of the smart tag or overlayed/underlayed on a portion of the attachment mechanism X22300 (e.g., as illustrated in Figure 40 with bag type battery X35800) and may consist of various dimensions in length, width, depth depending upon the battery technology used and power requirements. [00106] In this example embodiment a portion of the attachment mechanism X22300 is illustrated in Figure 31. The attachment mechanism X22300 is made of semi-flexible material including but not limited to thermoplastic and thermoset materials. The mechanism secures the enclosure base X22150 to the neck of the collection plasma container.

[00107] Figure 30 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X22150 and cover X22200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[00108] Figure 31 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X22150 and cover X22200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[00109] Figure 32 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X22150 and cover X22200) with clip/attachment mechanism. [00110] Figure 33 illustrates various views of an attachable smart tag device described in

Figures 19-22 attached to two different types of blood plasma containers. In this example embodiment, the attachable smart tag device fits just above the height of one of the two types of plasma container. Depending upon the height overreach extent, this device may not perform as well in packaging as other devices disclosed herein.

[00111] Figures 34, 35, 36 and 37 illustrate four views of an example embodiment of a device design which enables a smart tag X2100 to be associated with a container, including for example a blood plasma collection container. An example embodiment enclosure may comprise three elements, a smart tag enclosure holder base X27150, an enclosure cover X27200, and an attaching clip X27300.

[00112] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 34, A rigid or non-ridged (e.g., printed flexible label printed in and/or layered in cellophane) circuit board smart tag X2100 is placed or mounted in the tag holder X27150 and held in place for example by an attachment means including but not limited to: an adhesive, a clip, a plurality of clips, a transparent lid X27200, a semi-transparent lid X27200, a non-transparent lid with a light pipe centered over an LED, , friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls, etc. In an example embodiment, a lid/cover X12200 is snuggly placed over the top of the tag holder base X12150. Friction forces between the side walls of the cover/lid XI 2200 and side walls of the holder base XI 2150 keep the lid from separating from the tag holder X12150. Optionally, the lid has notched ends to enable easy cover/lid X12200 removal (e.g., prying the cover/lid apart using a very small flathead screw driver head) for access to smart tag X2100.

[00113] In another example embodiment, a rigid circuit board smart tag X2100 is held in place with an attachment means as described above without a cover/lid X27200 and is retained by friction forces with the PCB and holder base side walls. In another example embodiment, material is applied over a smart tag X2100 positioned in the tag holder X27150 to affix the smart tag to the holder X27150 to protect the tag from the environment (e.g., using an over mold process.)

[00114] In the example embodiment illustrated in Figure 34, optionally, a coin cell battery and battery holder X2400 on PCBA X2100 is replaced with a flexible bag type battery which may be mounted on the front or the back of the smart tag or overlayed/underlayed on a portion of the clip mechanism 27300 (e.g., as illustrated in Figure 40 with bag type battery X35800) and can consist of various dimensions in length, width, depth depending upon the battery technology and power requirements.

[00115] In this example embodiment a portion of the attachment clip X27300 is illustrated in Figure 36. The attachment clip X27300 is made of semi-flexible material including but not limited to thermoplastic and thermoset materials. The clip secures the enclosure base X27150 to the body of the collection plasma container.

[00116] Figure 35 illustrates a side view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X27150 and cover X27200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[00117] Figure 36 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X27150 and cover X27200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[00118] Figure 31 illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of an attachable smart tag enclosure (base X27150 and cover X27200) with clip/attachment mechanism.

[00119] Figure 38 illustrates various views of an attachable smart tag device described in Figures 32 - 37 attached to two different types of blood plasma containers. In this example embodiment, the attachable smart tag device fits just outside the height of one of the two types of plasma containers and beyond the diameter of the container. Depending upon the height and diameter infraction outside the geometry of the container, this device may not perform as well in packaging as other devices disclosed herein.

[00120] The previous example embodiments described herein reference the use of and inclusion of bag battery technologies as an alternative to coin cells. Advantageously, bag battery technologies have certain characteristics not available in coin cell batteries. For example, bag battery technology are customizable in size and shape, include customizable power capacities, enable a broad operating temperature range including ultra-low temperatures (e.g., -40 degrees centigrade), include enable eco-friendly disposable options, etc. In another example embodiment, the enclosure described in Figures 14-17 may be configured with a bag battery in the tag holder base X7150 with a portion of, or all of, the battery underlayed or overlayed on the clip mechanism X7300. Figure 40 illustrates a front view of a minimalistic enclosure in which the radio, processor, and associated discrete electronic components (with a rigid or flexible base) are placed or affixed into a tag holder X35150. Optionally, to simplify manufacturing and standardize across multiple uses, the electronics, including for example, radio, processor, and associated discrete electronic components are packaged into a self-contained module. The module is placed or affixed into a tag holder including using, for example, a mold over manufacturing process or other attachment process described above. Optionally, the use of bag battery technology enables the tag holder X35150 to be comparably smaller to tag holder base X7150 of Figure 14 as the coin cell holder X2400 and associated space is removed from the holder base X7150. Optionally, depending upon the means of affixing the electronics and/or module (e.g., using a mold over process), the tag holder X35150 does not include sides. Optionally, a portion or all of a bag battery used to power the electronics is placed in the front of or behind the electronics and/or module in the tag holder X35150. Optionally, a portion or all of the battery X35800 runs down the length of the antenna (on top or below the antenna). Figures 39-40 illustrates the placement of a bag battery under the clip mechanism X35300 as illustrated in the front view Figure 39 and bottom view of Figure 40 (wherein in this example embodiment, a portion of the bag battery is under the tag holder X35150 and a portion extends onto the clip mechanism X35300 as illustrated in Figure 40.) Figure 36 is just one example embodiment of a bag battery. As bag battery are malleable and customizable, an integrated battery may be thin or thick, may extend outside the forward edge of the clip, may be attached to the outside edges of the clip, etc.) Advantageously, the example embodiment of Figures 39 and 40 illustrates a minimalistic geometry/size embodiment further simplifying smart tag introduction into existing workflows and logistic processes.

[00121] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "may," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[00122] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

[00123] While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, it can be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As can be recognized, certain embodiments described herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of certain embodiments disclosed herein is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An apparatus for coupling an electronic tag to a fluid container, the apparatus comprising: a housing; an electronic circuit; and a collar coupled to the housing, wherein: the collar comprises a fixed portion coupled to the housing; the collar comprises a pivoting portion coupled to the fixed portion via a pivot; the pivoting portion is configured to pivot from an open position to a closed position; the pivoting portion comprises a latching mechanism configured to latch the pivoting portion to the fixed portion when the pivoting portion is in the closed position; the pivoting portion comprises a first electrical contact; the fixed portion comprises a second electrical contact; and the electronic circuit is configured to detect if the first electrical contact is separated from the second electrical contact.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the collar is configured to extend around the fluid container when the collar is in the closed position.

3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein: the fluid container comprises a body portion with a first diameter; the collar has a second diameter when the collar is in the closed position; the second diameter is less than or equal to the first diameter.

4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the fluid container contains a blood product.

5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the blood product is blood plasma.

6. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the housing comprises a transparent or translucent panel.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein: the electronic tag comprises a status indicator; and the status indicator is visible through the transparent or translucent panel.

8. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the apparatus comprises an activation mechanism configured to activate the electronic tag.

9. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the housing comprises a seal configured to prevent fluid from entering the housing.

10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein the seal is impervious to a hospital-grade cleaning solution.

11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the hospital-grade cleaning solution is selected from the group consisting of formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, ortho-phthalaldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid and combinations thereof.

12. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein: the housing comprises a body portion; and the housing comprises a removable cover configured to couple to the body portion; the seal is positioned between the body portion and the removable cover when the removable cover is coupled to the body portion.

13. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the apparatus is formed from a material capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius.

14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the material is selected from the group consisting of nylon 66SA, polyurethan, acrylic and combinations thereof.

15. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the electronic circuit is configured to detect if the first electrical contact is separated from the second electrical contact after the pivoting portion is moved from the open position to the closed position.

16. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of flexible members extending inward from the collar.

17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein each of the plurality of flexible members are curved in the direction of the collar.

18. The apparatus of claim 16 or 17 wherein each of the plurality of flexible members comprise an enlarged end portion distal from the collar.

19. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are proximal to the latching mechanism.

20. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims wherein the housing and the collar are substantially perpendicular.

21. A method of coupling an electronic tag to a fluid container, the method comprising: obtaining an apparatus according to any of the preceding claims; placing the electronic tag in the housing; and coupling the apparatus to the fluid container.

22. The method of claim 21 wherein coupling the apparatus to the fluid container comprises: positioning the pivoting portion of the collar in the open position; placing the fluid container between the pivoting portion of the collar and the fixed portion of the collar; moving the pivoting portion of the collar to the closed position; and engaging the latching mechanism to latch the pivoting portion of the collar to the fixed portion of the collar.