WO2022208152A1 - Control apparatus and control system for managing a plurality of pharmaceutical articles - Google Patents

Control apparatus and control system for managing a plurality of pharmaceutical articles Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022208152A1
WO2022208152A1 PCT/IB2021/056764 IB2021056764W WO2022208152A1 WO 2022208152 A1 WO2022208152 A1 WO 2022208152A1 IB 2021056764 W IB2021056764 W IB 2021056764W WO 2022208152 A1 WO2022208152 A1 WO 2022208152A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pharmaceutical
articles
processor
actual
article
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2021/056764
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Marco FRANCO
Flavio CECCHI
Marco VASAPOLLO
Riccardo BELLUZZI
Original Assignee
10 10 One Object One Owner S.B. S.R.L.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by 10 10 One Object One Owner S.B. S.R.L. filed Critical 10 10 One Object One Owner S.B. S.R.L.
Priority to EP21758432.5A priority Critical patent/EP4315204A1/en
Publication of WO2022208152A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022208152A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
    • G06Q10/083—Shipping
    • G06Q10/0832—Special goods or special handling procedures, e.g. handling of hazardous or fragile goods
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
    • G06Q10/083—Shipping
    • G06Q10/0833—Tracking

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles.
  • said systems do not allow effective control of two stages of the useful life of a pharmaceutical article, the stage of transporting the article and the stage of disposing of the product.
  • the current systems provide a simple container in which the pharmaceutical articles are placed.
  • these systems are very simple and do not allow a control, checking and detailed analysis of the disposal of the pharmaceutical articles.
  • the aim of the invention is to provide a system for the control and management of pharmaceutical articles which overcomes the above- mentioned drawbacks of the prior art.
  • a system for the control and management of pharmaceutical articles.
  • the system comprises a plurality of pharmaceutical articles.
  • the system comprises a means of transport, configured to house said plurality of pharmaceutical articles.
  • the system comprises a plurality of identifier devices, each including an emitter.
  • the emitter is configured for emitting a recognition signal.
  • Each of said identifier devices is constrained to a respective pharmaceutical article.
  • the system comprises a communicator device.
  • the communicator device is removably connected to the means of transport.
  • the communicator device includes a location module, configured to determine a geographic location of the transport medium.
  • the communicator device includes a communication module, configured to send an alarm signal to a remote terminal.
  • the communicator device includes a memory, including a predetermined number of items.
  • the communicator device includes a receiver, configured to receive the recognition signal emitted by each identifier device.
  • the communicator device includes a processor, configured to count, at predetermined time intervals, the number of recognition signals received, to calculate an actual number of articles housed in the transport medium,
  • the processor is programmed to compare the actual number of articles with the predetermined number of articles.
  • the processor is programmed to send, via the communication module, the alarm signal to a remote terminal, in case the actual number of articles is less than the predetermined number of articles.
  • the communicator device comprises a temperature sensor, configured to determine an actual temperature of an environment close to the means of transport.
  • the memory includes a predetermined temperature range.
  • the processor is programmed to compare the actual temperature with the predetermined temperature range. The processor is programmed to send, using the communication module, an alarm signal to a remote terminal, if the actual temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range.
  • a control apparatus for the disposal of pharmaceutical articles.
  • the apparatus includes a housing chamber, within which a pharmaceutical article can be placed.
  • the apparatus includes a weight sensor, configured to determine an actual weight of the pharmaceutical article.
  • the apparatus includes a receiver, configured to receive a recognition signal from an identifier device integrated with the pharmaceutical article.
  • the apparatus includes a processor, programmed to retrieve in a memory a predetermined weight value, representative of a tare value of the pharmaceutical article, based on the received recognition signal.
  • the processor is programmed to compare the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article with the predetermined weight value.
  • the processor is programmed to identify, based on the comparison, whether the pharmaceutical article is exhausted.
  • the processor is designed to store in the memory the percentage of pharmaceutical articles actually finished with respect to the total of the pharmaceutical articles.
  • the processor is configured to store in the memory, for the pharmaceutical articles not finished, an average value of remaining drug. This makes it possible to know the relative waste of the drugs, the types of drugs wasted and the quantity of drug wasted.
  • the apparatus comprises a storage container, in communication with the housing chamber by means of an opening.
  • the opening is movable between an open configuration, wherein the housing chamber is in communication with the storage container, and a closed configuration, wherein the housing chamber is separated from the storage container.
  • the processor is programmed to command the measurement of the weight by means of the weight sensor with the opening in the closed configuration.
  • the processor is programmed for switching the opening to the open configuration, in response to receiving the actual weight from the weight sensor.
  • a method for the control and management of pharmaceutical articles.
  • the method comprises a step of binding of a plurality of identifier devices, each including an emitter, configured to emit an acknowledgement signal, to a corresponding plurality of pharmaceutical articles.
  • the method comprises a step of binding a communicating device to a means of transport.
  • the method comprises a step of positioning the plurality of pharmaceutical articles in the means of transport.
  • the method comprises the step of locating the communicating device by means of a location module, configured to determine a geographic location of the means of transport.
  • the method comprises a step of reading, into a memory, a predetermined number of items.
  • the method comprises a step of receiving the recognition signal emitted by each identification device.
  • the method comprises a step of counting, at predetermined time intervals, the number of recognition signals received, in order to calculate an actual number of items housed in the means of transport.
  • the method comprises a step of comparing the actual number of articles with the pre-determined number of articles.
  • the method comprises a step of sending an alarm signal to a remote terminal via a communicator module of the communicator device, in case the actual number of articles is less than the predetermined number of articles.
  • a method for controlled disposal of a pharmaceutical article of said plurality using a control apparatus.
  • the method comprises a step of preparing the control apparatus including a housing chamber, a weight sensor, a receiver and a processor.
  • the method comprises a step of positioning the pharmaceutical article in the housing chamber.
  • the method comprises a step of detecting an actual weight of the pharmaceutical article by means of the weight sensor.
  • the method comprises a step of receiving the recognition signal using the receiver.
  • the method comprises a step of sending the recognition signal to the processor.
  • the method comprises a step of reading into a memory a predetermined weight value, representative of a tare value of the pharmaceutical article, based on the received recognition signal.
  • the method comprises a step of comparing the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article with the predetermined weight value.
  • the method comprises a step of evaluating, based on the comparison, the actual finishing of the pharmaceutical article.
  • the processor preferably stores in the memory the percentage of pharmaceutical articles actually finished relative to the total of the pharmaceutical articles. In addition or alternatively, the processor stores in the memory, for the pharmaceutical articles not finished, an average value of remaining drug.
  • the control apparatus comprises a storage container in communication with the storage chamber via an opening, movable between an open configuration, wherein the storage chamber is in communication with the storage container, and a closed configuration, wherein the storage chamber is separated from the storage container.
  • the processor commands the weight sensor to detect the actual weight with the item in the housing chamber and the opening in the closed configuration.
  • the processor switches the opening to open configuration as soon as it receives, from the weight sensor, the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article.
  • FIG. 1 shows a system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a means for transporting pharmaceutical articles in a system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles according to the invention
  • FIG. 3 shows a communicating device of the system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles according to the invention
  • FIGS. 4A and 4B show an apparatus for disposing of pharmaceutical articles in a first operating configuration and in a second operating configuration
  • FIGS. 5A and 5B show a box of pharmaceutical articles in a first operating configuration and in a second operating configuration, respectively.
  • the numeral 1 denotes a system for the control and management of a plurality of pharmaceutical articles AF.
  • the system 1 comprises a communication device 2.
  • the communication device 2 comprises one or more of the following components: a communication module 21 , a localisation module 22, one or more sensors 23, a processor 24, a power supply unit 25, a transmitter and/or receiver NFC, an RFID receiver and/or transmitter.
  • the communication device 2 comprises the following components:
  • the processor is configured to program the radio modem by means of AT commands sent by the processor to the radio modem itself;
  • a second acceleration and/or inclination sensor 23B which can be activated automatically by the processor in the case of a fault of the first acceleration and/or inclination sensor.
  • the processor is also programmed to send an alarm signal S2 in the case of a fault of a sensor of said one or more sensors 23;
  • the communication device 2 comprises an electricity generating module 26.
  • the electric generating module 26 comprising one or more of the following elements:
  • the communication device 2 comprises a printed circuit on which the various components are positioned.
  • the communication device 2 is configured to be constrained by a means of transport MT of said plurality of pharmaceutical articles AF.
  • the means of transport MT is a truck CM and the communication device 2 is positioned inside the truck.
  • the means of transport MT is a pallet PT and the communication device 2 is preferably integrated in a irremovable manner on the pallet, or, according to other embodiments, is removable in a removable fashion.
  • the means of transport MT and/or the pallet PT may be part of the system 1.
  • the system 1 comprises a plurality of identification devices 3, each constrained (preferably irremovably) to each pharmaceutical article AF.
  • the identification device 3 is connected to a product container of the pharmaceutical article AF and not to the packet, in which the information leaflet is also located.
  • Each identification device 3 comprises a NFC and/or RFID receiver/transmitter, configured to send a recognition signal, representing an identification code, uniquely associated with the specific pharmaceutical article AF.
  • the receiver of the communication device 2 is configured to receive the recognition signal of each identification device 3.
  • the processor of the communication device 2 counts, on the basis of the recognition signals detected, the number of pharmaceutical articles AF present in the truck CM or on the pallet PT.
  • the communication device 2 has access to a memory (remote or local), from which to recover a predetermined number of pharmaceutical articles AF’.
  • the processor compares the number of pharmaceutical articles AF counted on the basis of the recognition signals received with the predetermined number of pharmaceutical articles AF’. If the number of pharmaceutical articles AF counted on the basis of the recognition signals is less than the number of predetermined pharmaceutical articles AF’, the processor commands the communication module 21 to send an alarm signal, to report the fault on a remote terminal 4 of the system 1.
  • the processor is programmed to also send, in the alarm signal, the identification code of the identification device 3 associated with the missing pharmaceutical article AF.
  • the processor of the communication device 2 also has access to a predetermined delivery path, defined by a succession of geographical positions, recovered from the local or remote memory.
  • the communication device 2 receives in real time its geographical position and compares it with the succession of geographical positions, to check whether the geographical position is distant by a value greater than a limit value from all the geographical positions of said succession. This would indicate a deviation from the predetermined path, which presumably corresponds to a theft of the cargo.
  • the system 1 comprises a control passageway VC, which is configured to receive signals from each of said identification devices 3 constrained to the pharmaceutical articles AF.
  • control passageway VC is an RFID passageway, configured to receive signals from the RFIDs which are constrained to the pharmaceutical articles AF.
  • the control passageway VC is constrainable (can be integrated, connected) to the truck CM.
  • the control passageway VC can be connected to an electrical power supply of the truck CM and can be positioned at an exit passageway from the truck CM, that is to say, a door from which the pharmaceutical articles are inserted in the truck CM.
  • the control passageway VC detects the emission of signals by the identification devices 3 in a control surface.
  • the control passageway VC has a three- dimensional measuring radius and acts as receiver of the communication device 2, since it detects, in the entire space inside the truck CM, the presence and the number of signals received from the identification devices 3 constrained to the pharmaceutical articles AF:
  • the control passageway VC communicates with the communication device 2, for notification to it of any passage of a pharmaceutical article AF through the exit door.
  • the processor of the communication device 2 is programmed for accessing logistic information, which represents geographical positions in which the unloading of the pharmaceutical products AF is permitted.
  • the processor compares the geographical position of the truck CM at the moment the control passageway VC notifies a passage (received by means of the location module) with the unloading positions permitted. If said geographical position is not included in the permitted unloading positions, the communication device 2 sends an alarm signal by means of the communication module.
  • the system 12 comprises one or more tear- off control devices 3’, preferably RFID tear-off devices.
  • Said tear-off control devices 3’ are positioned on corresponding STL boxes, which include, inside them, a plurality of pharmaceutical articles AF. If the STL box is tampered with, the tear-off device 3” would be tampered with and would no longer emit a signal. Both the control passageway VC and the communication device therefore lose the count of the STL box. In this way, a tampering with the load can be detected, even if there are no identification devices 3 positioned on each pharmaceutical article AF.
  • the communication device comprises, between its sensors 23, a detachment sensor 233, configured for detecting a distancing between a drive unit MT of the truck and a body CSS of the truck CM.
  • the detachment sensor 233 is positioned on a connecting hook between the matrix MN and the body CSS.
  • the detachment sensor 233 is a distance sensor, configured for detecting a detachment signal 2331 , representing a distance, along a detection direction, between the body CSS and the drive unit MN.
  • the processor of the communication device 2 is programmed for sending an alarm signal using the communication module, for values of the distance between the body CSS and the drive unit MN greater than a limit distance value, for alerting a possible theft of the body CSS.
  • an apparatus is provided for the disposal 5 of the pharmaceutical articles.
  • the apparatus 5 is preferably part of the system 1 , since it contributes to increasing the capacity for management and control of the pharmaceutical articles AF.
  • the apparatus 5 comprises a housing chamber 51.
  • the housing chamber is configured to contain, temporarily, a pharmaceutical article AF.
  • the housing chamber 51 is open to an outside environment by means of an inlet opening 5T, through which a user can insert the pharmaceutical article AF inside the housing chamber.
  • each pharmaceutical article comprises the respective identification device 3.
  • the apparatus 5 comprises a receiver 52, configured to receive and detect the recognition signal of the identification device 3 associated with the pharmaceutical article AF inserted in the housing chamber 51.
  • the apparatus 5 comprises a connection module 53, configured for connecting the apparatus 5 with a centralised database.
  • the apparatus comprises a processor 54, which receives from the receiver 52 the recognition signal of the identification device 3.
  • the processor using the connection module 53, sends a request to the centralised database 6, for recovering one or more data items relating to the pharmaceutical article.
  • the data items recovered by the processor are one or more of the following:
  • the apparatus 5 comprises a video camera 55.
  • the video camera 55 is configured to capture image data, representing an image of the pharmaceutical article AF positioned inside the housing chamber 51.
  • the processor 54 is programmed to determine, based on the image data, whether the pharmaceutical article AF does not have an outer packet, that is to say, if only the product container is present.
  • the apparatus 5 comprises a weight sensor 56.
  • the weight sensor 56 is designed to detect a weight signal, representing a weight of the pharmaceutical article AF positioned inside the housing chamber 51.
  • the processor 54 is programmed to determine, based on the weight signal and the weight of the empty drug (including and/or excluding the information leaflet and the packet), a remaining quantity of pharmaceutical product.
  • the processor 54 determines which weight value to be selected from the memory between the weight of the empty drug including the information leaflet and the packet or the weight of the empty drug excluding the information leaflet and the packet. In fact, the processor 54 processes, using suitable image recognition algorithms (artificial intelligence), whether or not the packet and/or the information leaflet is present.
  • suitable image recognition algorithms artificial intelligence
  • the processor subtracts from the weight value detected in the housing chamber 51 the value of the tare weight selected for the pharmaceutical article AF, deriving the weight of the remaining product.
  • the processor 54 determines a percentage with respect to the total remaining product.
  • the processor 54 stores the following information in the centralised database:
  • the recognition of the presence of the pharmaceutical product could be made with a generic product recognition system, using other recognition systems.
  • the apparatus 5 might include a density gauge, which is able to identify whether a portion of the pharmaceutical article AF is present having a density equal to that of the pharmaceutical product located in the housing chamber 1 (which would again be recovered in the remote database 6 based on the recognition signal emitted by the pharmaceutical article).
  • the apparatus 5 might comprise an electromagnetic waves emitter whose emission frequency is regulated by the processor 54 at a rate of absorption of the pharmaceutical product (which would again be recovered in the remote database 6 based on the recognition signal emitted by the pharmaceutical article).
  • the apparatus 5 in that case, also comprises a receiver of the electromagnetic waves emitted. Based on the absorption of the electromagnetic wave, it is possible to assess the presence or absence of the pharmaceutical product in the pharmaceutical article disposed of.
  • the apparatus 5 comprises an opening 57, which is movable between an open configuration CA and a closed configuration CC.
  • the apparatus 5 comprises a storage container 58.
  • the storage container 58 is placed in communication with the housing chamber 51 by means of the opening 57.
  • the weight sensor 56 detects the weight of the pharmaceutical article AF and the storage container 58 is separated from the housing chamber 51.
  • the housing chamber In the open configuration CA of the opening 57, the housing chamber is open on the storage container 58, to allow the pharmaceutical article AF to be transferred from the housing chamber 51 to the storage container 58.
  • the storage container 58 is removable from the apparatus 5 for allowing discharge of the pharmaceutical articles AF disposed of.
  • the apparatus 5 comprises a user interface.
  • the user interface allows data to be entered for a user who disposes of the pharmaceutical article AF as well as showing to the user messages of the processor 54.
  • the processor 54 when it detects that the pharmaceutical product is not finished and that the drug has not expired, shows a message on the user interface, indicating that the product can still be used.
  • the user interface allows a user to be authenticated, on the basis of medical information, for example the tax code, in such a way as to keep track of the pharmaceutical article which is disposed of, in such a way as to be able to selectively encourage a user to dispose of drugs which are actually finished.
  • medical information for example the tax code

Abstract

A control apparatus (5) for disposing pharmaceutical articles (AF), includes: a housing chamber (51), within which a pharmaceutical article (AF) is placeable; a weight sensor (56), configured to determine an actual weight of the pharmaceutical article (AF); a receiver (52), configured to receive a recognition signal from an identifier device (3) integrated with the pharmaceutical article (AF); a processor (54), programmed to: retrieve in a memory a predetermined weight value, representative of a tare value of the pharmaceutical article, based on the received recognition signal; compare the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article with the predetermined weight value; identify, based on the comparison, whether the pharmaceutical article is exhausted.

Description

CONTROL APPARATUS AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR MANAGING A PLURALITY OF PHARMACEUTICAL ARTICLES Technical field
This invention relates to a system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles.
Background art In the sector for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles there are prior art systems in which each pharmaceutical article is associated with an identifier device, which emits a recognition signal, by which it is possible to derive some information on the pharmaceutical article.
However, said systems do not allow effective control of two stages of the useful life of a pharmaceutical article, the stage of transporting the article and the stage of disposing of the product.
In particular, there are prior art logistics control systems which allow the position of a means of transport to be tracked along the logistics route. These systems, however, do not allow an assessment of whether, as part of a transport, a single pharmaceutical article is lost or stolen.
Moreover, in the context of disposal of the pharmaceutical articles, the current systems provide a simple container in which the pharmaceutical articles are placed. However, these systems are very simple and do not allow a control, checking and detailed analysis of the disposal of the pharmaceutical articles.
Aim of the invention
The aim of the invention is to provide a system for the control and management of pharmaceutical articles which overcomes the above- mentioned drawbacks of the prior art.
Said aim is fully achieved by the system for the control and management of pharmaceutical articles according to the invention, as characterised in the appended claims.
According to an aspect of the invention, a system is provided for the control and management of pharmaceutical articles.
According to an embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of pharmaceutical articles. The system comprises a means of transport, configured to house said plurality of pharmaceutical articles.
The system comprises a plurality of identifier devices, each including an emitter. The emitter is configured for emitting a recognition signal. Each of said identifier devices is constrained to a respective pharmaceutical article. The system comprises a communicator device. Preferably, the communicator device is removably connected to the means of transport. The communicator device includes a location module, configured to determine a geographic location of the transport medium.
The communicator device includes a communication module, configured to send an alarm signal to a remote terminal.
The communicator device includes a memory, including a predetermined number of items.
The communicator device includes a receiver, configured to receive the recognition signal emitted by each identifier device.
The communicator device includes a processor, configured to count, at predetermined time intervals, the number of recognition signals received, to calculate an actual number of articles housed in the transport medium, The processor is programmed to compare the actual number of articles with the predetermined number of articles. The processor is programmed to send, via the communication module, the alarm signal to a remote terminal, in case the actual number of articles is less than the predetermined number of articles.
This allows a capillary control on each single pharmaceutical article, avoiding theft of even a single pharmaceutical article which could have a very high cost.
According to an embodiment, the communicator device comprises a temperature sensor, configured to determine an actual temperature of an environment close to the means of transport. According to this embodiment, the memory includes a predetermined temperature range. According to an embodiment, the processor is programmed to compare the actual temperature with the predetermined temperature range. The processor is programmed to send, using the communication module, an alarm signal to a remote terminal, if the actual temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range.
According to an aspect of the invention, a control apparatus is provided for the disposal of pharmaceutical articles.
The apparatus includes a housing chamber, within which a pharmaceutical article can be placed.
The apparatus includes a weight sensor, configured to determine an actual weight of the pharmaceutical article.
The apparatus includes a receiver, configured to receive a recognition signal from an identifier device integrated with the pharmaceutical article. The apparatus includes a processor, programmed to retrieve in a memory a predetermined weight value, representative of a tare value of the pharmaceutical article, based on the received recognition signal.
The processor is programmed to compare the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article with the predetermined weight value.
The processor is programmed to identify, based on the comparison, whether the pharmaceutical article is exhausted.
Preferably, the processor is designed to store in the memory the percentage of pharmaceutical articles actually finished with respect to the total of the pharmaceutical articles.
The processor is configured to store in the memory, for the pharmaceutical articles not finished, an average value of remaining drug. This makes it possible to know the relative waste of the drugs, the types of drugs wasted and the quantity of drug wasted.
According to an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a storage container, in communication with the housing chamber by means of an opening. The opening is movable between an open configuration, wherein the housing chamber is in communication with the storage container, and a closed configuration, wherein the housing chamber is separated from the storage container.
The processor is programmed to command the measurement of the weight by means of the weight sensor with the opening in the closed configuration. The processor is programmed for switching the opening to the open configuration, in response to receiving the actual weight from the weight sensor.
According to an aspect of the invention, a method is provided for the control and management of pharmaceutical articles.
The method comprises a step of binding of a plurality of identifier devices, each including an emitter, configured to emit an acknowledgement signal, to a corresponding plurality of pharmaceutical articles.
The method comprises a step of binding a communicating device to a means of transport.
The method comprises a step of positioning the plurality of pharmaceutical articles in the means of transport.
The method comprises the step of locating the communicating device by means of a location module, configured to determine a geographic location of the means of transport.
The method comprises a step of reading, into a memory, a predetermined number of items. The method comprises a step of receiving the recognition signal emitted by each identification device.
The method comprises a step of counting, at predetermined time intervals, the number of recognition signals received, in order to calculate an actual number of items housed in the means of transport. The method comprises a step of comparing the actual number of articles with the pre-determined number of articles. The method comprises a step of sending an alarm signal to a remote terminal via a communicator module of the communicator device, in case the actual number of articles is less than the predetermined number of articles.
According to an aspect of the invention, a method is provided for controlled disposal of a pharmaceutical article of said plurality using a control apparatus.
The method comprises a step of preparing the control apparatus including a housing chamber, a weight sensor, a receiver and a processor.
The method comprises a step of positioning the pharmaceutical article in the housing chamber. The method comprises a step of detecting an actual weight of the pharmaceutical article by means of the weight sensor.
The method comprises a step of receiving the recognition signal using the receiver. The method comprises a step of sending the recognition signal to the processor.
The method comprises a step of reading into a memory a predetermined weight value, representative of a tare value of the pharmaceutical article, based on the received recognition signal.
The method comprises a step of comparing the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article with the predetermined weight value.
The method comprises a step of evaluating, based on the comparison, the actual finishing of the pharmaceutical article.
The processor preferably stores in the memory the percentage of pharmaceutical articles actually finished relative to the total of the pharmaceutical articles. In addition or alternatively, the processor stores in the memory, for the pharmaceutical articles not finished, an average value of remaining drug.
The control apparatus comprises a storage container in communication with the storage chamber via an opening, movable between an open configuration, wherein the storage chamber is in communication with the storage container, and a closed configuration, wherein the storage chamber is separated from the storage container.
The processor commands the weight sensor to detect the actual weight with the item in the housing chamber and the opening in the closed configuration.
The processor switches the opening to open configuration as soon as it receives, from the weight sensor, the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article.
Brief description of the drawings
These and other features will become more apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment, illustrated by way of non limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 shows a system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles according to the invention;
- Figure 2 shows an embodiment of a means for transporting pharmaceutical articles in a system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles according to the invention;
- Figure 3 shows a communicating device of the system for controlling and managing pharmaceutical articles according to the invention;
- Figures 4A and 4B show an apparatus for disposing of pharmaceutical articles in a first operating configuration and in a second operating configuration;
- Figures 5A and 5B show a box of pharmaceutical articles in a first operating configuration and in a second operating configuration, respectively.
Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention
With reference to the accompanying drawings, the numeral 1 denotes a system for the control and management of a plurality of pharmaceutical articles AF. The system 1 comprises a communication device 2.
The communication device 2 comprises one or more of the following components: a communication module 21 , a localisation module 22, one or more sensors 23, a processor 24, a power supply unit 25, a transmitter and/or receiver NFC, an RFID receiver and/or transmitter.
In particular, according to a preferred embodiment, the communication device 2 comprises the following components:
- a processor (Dual core) complete with Bluetooth and BLE model;
- radio modem, forming a complete package system of GPRS, LPWA, LTE, NB-loT, CAT-M1 and GPS. The processor is configured to program the radio modem by means of AT commands sent by the processor to the radio modem itself;
- a SIM card for the connectivity of the communication device;
- a first acceleration and/or inclination sensor 23A;
- a second acceleration and/or inclination sensor 23B, which can be activated automatically by the processor in the case of a fault of the first acceleration and/or inclination sensor. The processor is also programmed to send an alarm signal S2 in the case of a fault of a sensor of said one or more sensors 23;
- a temperature sensor (and a redundant temperature sensor for overcoming the fault of the first temperature sensor);
- a humidity sensor (and a redundant temperature sensor for overcoming the fault of the first temperature sensor).
According to an embodiment, the communication device 2 comprises an electricity generating module 26. The electric generating module 26 comprising one or more of the following elements:
- a dynamo;
- a fan and a system for generating electricity from wind energy;
- a solar panel and a system for generating electricity from solar energy;
- a piezoelectric generating system, configured to generate electricity from vibrations of the piezoelectric element. According to an embodiment, the communication device 2 comprises a printed circuit on which the various components are positioned.
The communication device 2 is configured to be constrained by a means of transport MT of said plurality of pharmaceutical articles AF.
According to an embodiment, the means of transport MT is a truck CM and the communication device 2 is positioned inside the truck. According to an embodiment, the means of transport MT is a pallet PT and the communication device 2 is preferably integrated in a irremovable manner on the pallet, or, according to other embodiments, is removable in a removable fashion. The means of transport MT and/or the pallet PT may be part of the system 1.
The system 1 comprises a plurality of identification devices 3, each constrained (preferably irremovably) to each pharmaceutical article AF. Preferably, the identification device 3 is connected to a product container of the pharmaceutical article AF and not to the packet, in which the information leaflet is also located. Each identification device 3 comprises a NFC and/or RFID receiver/transmitter, configured to send a recognition signal, representing an identification code, uniquely associated with the specific pharmaceutical article AF.
The receiver of the communication device 2 is configured to receive the recognition signal of each identification device 3. The processor of the communication device 2 counts, on the basis of the recognition signals detected, the number of pharmaceutical articles AF present in the truck CM or on the pallet PT.
The communication device 2 has access to a memory (remote or local), from which to recover a predetermined number of pharmaceutical articles AF’. The processor compares the number of pharmaceutical articles AF counted on the basis of the recognition signals received with the predetermined number of pharmaceutical articles AF’. If the number of pharmaceutical articles AF counted on the basis of the recognition signals is less than the number of predetermined pharmaceutical articles AF’, the processor commands the communication module 21 to send an alarm signal, to report the fault on a remote terminal 4 of the system 1.
The processor is programmed to also send, in the alarm signal, the identification code of the identification device 3 associated with the missing pharmaceutical article AF.
The processor of the communication device 2 also has access to a predetermined delivery path, defined by a succession of geographical positions, recovered from the local or remote memory. The communication device 2 receives in real time its geographical position and compares it with the succession of geographical positions, to check whether the geographical position is distant by a value greater than a limit value from all the geographical positions of said succession. This would indicate a deviation from the predetermined path, which presumably corresponds to a theft of the cargo.
According to an embodiment, the system 1 comprises a control passageway VC, which is configured to receive signals from each of said identification devices 3 constrained to the pharmaceutical articles AF.
In particular, the control passageway VC is an RFID passageway, configured to receive signals from the RFIDs which are constrained to the pharmaceutical articles AF. The control passageway VC is constrainable (can be integrated, connected) to the truck CM. In particular, the control passageway VC can be connected to an electrical power supply of the truck CM and can be positioned at an exit passageway from the truck CM, that is to say, a door from which the pharmaceutical articles are inserted in the truck CM. In this case, the control passageway VC detects the emission of signals by the identification devices 3 in a control surface. According to other embodiments, the control passageway VC has a three- dimensional measuring radius and acts as receiver of the communication device 2, since it detects, in the entire space inside the truck CM, the presence and the number of signals received from the identification devices 3 constrained to the pharmaceutical articles AF: The control passageway VC communicates with the communication device 2, for notification to it of any passage of a pharmaceutical article AF through the exit door. The processor of the communication device 2 is programmed for accessing logistic information, which represents geographical positions in which the unloading of the pharmaceutical products AF is permitted. The processor compares the geographical position of the truck CM at the moment the control passageway VC notifies a passage (received by means of the location module) with the unloading positions permitted. If said geographical position is not included in the permitted unloading positions, the communication device 2 sends an alarm signal by means of the communication module.
According to an embodiment, the system 12 comprises one or more tear- off control devices 3’, preferably RFID tear-off devices. Said tear-off control devices 3’ are positioned on corresponding STL boxes, which include, inside them, a plurality of pharmaceutical articles AF. If the STL box is tampered with, the tear-off device 3” would be tampered with and would no longer emit a signal. Both the control passageway VC and the communication device therefore lose the count of the STL box. In this way, a tampering with the load can be detected, even if there are no identification devices 3 positioned on each pharmaceutical article AF. Lastly, according to an embodiment, the communication device comprises, between its sensors 23, a detachment sensor 233, configured for detecting a distancing between a drive unit MT of the truck and a body CSS of the truck CM. In particular, the detachment sensor 233 is positioned on a connecting hook between the matrix MN and the body CSS. According to an embodiment, the detachment sensor 233 is a distance sensor, configured for detecting a detachment signal 2331 , representing a distance, along a detection direction, between the body CSS and the drive unit MN. The processor of the communication device 2 is programmed for sending an alarm signal using the communication module, for values of the distance between the body CSS and the drive unit MN greater than a limit distance value, for alerting a possible theft of the body CSS.
According to an aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided for the disposal 5 of the pharmaceutical articles.
The apparatus 5 is preferably part of the system 1 , since it contributes to increasing the capacity for management and control of the pharmaceutical articles AF.
The apparatus 5 comprises a housing chamber 51. The housing chamber is configured to contain, temporarily, a pharmaceutical article AF.
The housing chamber 51 is open to an outside environment by means of an inlet opening 5T, through which a user can insert the pharmaceutical article AF inside the housing chamber. As described above, each pharmaceutical article comprises the respective identification device 3.
The apparatus 5 comprises a receiver 52, configured to receive and detect the recognition signal of the identification device 3 associated with the pharmaceutical article AF inserted in the housing chamber 51.
The apparatus 5 comprises a connection module 53, configured for connecting the apparatus 5 with a centralised database.
The apparatus comprises a processor 54, which receives from the receiver 52 the recognition signal of the identification device 3. The processor, using the connection module 53, sends a request to the centralised database 6, for recovering one or more data items relating to the pharmaceutical article.
In particular, the data items recovered by the processor are one or more of the following:
- drug information leaflet;
- weight of the total full pharmaceutical article AF, including the weight of the information leaflet and the packet;
- weight of the partial full pharmaceutical article AF, excluding the weight of the information leaflet and the packet.
- weight of the total empty pharmaceutical article AF, including the weight of the information leaflet and the packet;
- weight of the partial empty pharmaceutical article AF, excluding the weight of the information leaflet and the packet.
- weight of the pharmaceutical product contained in the product container.
- name of the pharmaceutical article AF;
- expiry date of the pharmaceutical article AF.
According to an embodiment, the apparatus 5 comprises a video camera 55. The video camera 55 is configured to capture image data, representing an image of the pharmaceutical article AF positioned inside the housing chamber 51.
The processor 54 is programmed to determine, based on the image data, whether the pharmaceutical article AF does not have an outer packet, that is to say, if only the product container is present.
The apparatus 5 comprises a weight sensor 56. The weight sensor 56 is designed to detect a weight signal, representing a weight of the pharmaceutical article AF positioned inside the housing chamber 51.
The processor 54 is programmed to determine, based on the weight signal and the weight of the empty drug (including and/or excluding the information leaflet and the packet), a remaining quantity of pharmaceutical product.
Preferably, based on the image data, the processor 54 determines which weight value to be selected from the memory between the weight of the empty drug including the information leaflet and the packet or the weight of the empty drug excluding the information leaflet and the packet. In fact, the processor 54 processes, using suitable image recognition algorithms (artificial intelligence), whether or not the packet and/or the information leaflet is present.
At this point, the processor subtracts from the weight value detected in the housing chamber 51 the value of the tare weight selected for the pharmaceutical article AF, deriving the weight of the remaining product. The processor 54 determines a percentage with respect to the total remaining product. The processor 54 stores the following information in the centralised database:
- number of pharmaceutical articles disposed of with product remaining;
- for each pharmaceutical article AF disposed of, a corresponding remaining percentage of product;
- percentage of product remaining by geographical area or for a period of time or by type of drug;
- the number of drugs disposed of which are not yet expired and with product remaining.
According to an embodiment, the recognition of the presence of the pharmaceutical product could be made with a generic product recognition system, using other recognition systems. For example, but without limiting the scope of the invention, the apparatus 5 might include a density gauge, which is able to identify whether a portion of the pharmaceutical article AF is present having a density equal to that of the pharmaceutical product located in the housing chamber 1 (which would again be recovered in the remote database 6 based on the recognition signal emitted by the pharmaceutical article). According to another example, the apparatus 5 might comprise an electromagnetic waves emitter whose emission frequency is regulated by the processor 54 at a rate of absorption of the pharmaceutical product (which would again be recovered in the remote database 6 based on the recognition signal emitted by the pharmaceutical article). The apparatus 5, in that case, also comprises a receiver of the electromagnetic waves emitted. Based on the absorption of the electromagnetic wave, it is possible to assess the presence or absence of the pharmaceutical product in the pharmaceutical article disposed of. According to an embodiment, the apparatus 5 comprises an opening 57, which is movable between an open configuration CA and a closed configuration CC. The apparatus 5 comprises a storage container 58. The storage container 58 is placed in communication with the housing chamber 51 by means of the opening 57. In particular, in the closed configuration of the opening 57, the weight sensor 56 detects the weight of the pharmaceutical article AF and the storage container 58 is separated from the housing chamber 51. In the open configuration CA of the opening 57, the housing chamber is open on the storage container 58, to allow the pharmaceutical article AF to be transferred from the housing chamber 51 to the storage container 58.
The storage container 58 is removable from the apparatus 5 for allowing discharge of the pharmaceutical articles AF disposed of.
According to an embodiment, the apparatus 5 comprises a user interface. The user interface allows data to be entered for a user who disposes of the pharmaceutical article AF as well as showing to the user messages of the processor 54.
In particular, the processor 54, when it detects that the pharmaceutical product is not finished and that the drug has not expired, shows a message on the user interface, indicating that the product can still be used.
Preferably, the user interface allows a user to be authenticated, on the basis of medical information, for example the tax code, in such a way as to keep track of the pharmaceutical article which is disposed of, in such a way as to be able to selectively encourage a user to dispose of drugs which are actually finished.

Claims

1. A control apparatus (5) for disposing pharmaceutical articles (AF), including:
- a housing chamber (51), within which a pharmaceutical article (AF) is placeable;
- a weight sensor (56), configured to determine an actual weight of the pharmaceutical article (AF);
- a receiver (52), configured to receive a recognition signal from an identifier device (3) integrated with the pharmaceutical article (AF);
- a processor (54), programmed to: retrieve in a memory a predetermined weight value, representative of a tare value of the pharmaceutical article, based on the received recognition signal; compare the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article with the predetermined weight value; identify, based on the comparison, whether the pharmaceutical article is exhausted.
2. Apparatus (5) according to claim 1 , wherein the processor (54) is configured to store in memory the percentage of pharmaceutical articles actually exhausted with respect to the total number of pharmaceutical articles, and wherein the processor (54) is configured to store in memory, for the pharmaceutical articles not exhausted, an average value of remaining drug.
3. Apparatus (5) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a storage container (58), in communication with the housing chamber (51) via an opening (57), movable between an open configuration (CA), in which the housing chamber (51) is in communication with the storage container (58), and a closed configuration (CC), wherein the housing chamber (51) is separated from the storage container (58), and wherein the processor (54) is programmed to command the weight sensor with the aperture (57) in a closed configuration (CC) and to switch the aperture (57) to an open configuration (CA), in response to the actual weight being received by the weight sensor (56).
4. A system (1) for controlling and managing a plurality of pharmaceutical articles (AF), transportable via a transportation medium (MT), comprising:
- a plurality of identifier devices (3), each including an emitter, configured to emit an acknowledgement signal, and each bound to a respective pharmaceutical article (AF);
- a communicator device (2), removably bonded to the transport medium (MT) and including: a location module (22), configured to determine a geographic location of the transport medium; a communication module (21), configured to send an alarm signal to a remote terminal (4). a memory, including a predetermined number of items; a receiver, configured to receive the recognition signal emitted by each identifier device (3); a processor (24), configured to count, at predetermined time intervals, the number of recognition signals received, to calculate an actual number of pharmaceutical articles (AF) housed in the transport medium (MT), the processor (24) being programmed to compare the actual number of pharmaceutical articles (AF) with the predetermined number of articles and to send, via the communication module (21), the alarm signal to a remote terminal (4), in case the actual number of articles is less than the predetermined number of articles.
5. A system (1) according to claim 4, wherein the communicator device (2) comprises a temperature sensor (23) configured to determine an actual temperature of an environment close to the transport medium (MT) and wherein the memory includes a predetermined temperature range, the processor (24) being programmed to compare the actual temperature with the predetermined temperature range and to send, via the communication module (21), an alarm signal to the remote terminal (4), if the actual temperature is outside the predetermined temperature range.
6. A method for controlled disposal of a pharmaceutical article of said plurality using a control apparatus (5), including the following steps:
- providing the control apparatus (5) including a housing chamber (51), a weight sensor (56), a receiver (52) and a processor (54);
- placing the pharmaceutical article (AF) in the housing chamber (51);
- detecting an actual weight of the pharmaceutical article by means of the weight sensor (56);
- receiving the recognition signal via the receiver (52) and sending the recognition signal to the processor (54);
- reading into a memory a predetermined weight value, representative of a tare value of the pharmaceutical article, based on the received recognition signal;
- comparing the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article with the predetermined weight value;
- evaluating, based on the comparison, the actual exhaustion of the pharmaceutical article.
7. Method according to claim 6, wherein the processor (54) stores in memory the percentage of pharmaceutical articles actually exhausted relative to the total number of pharmaceutical articles and stores in memory, for pharmaceutical articles not exhausted, an average of remaining drug value.
8. Method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the control apparatus (5) comprises a storage container (58) in communication with the storage chamber (51) via an opening (57), movable between an open configuration (CA), wherein the storage chamber (51) is in communication with the storage container (58), and a closed configuration (CC), wherein the storage chamber (51) is separated from the storage container (58), in which the processor:
- commands the weight sensor (56) to detect the actual weight with the item in the housing chamber (51) and the opening (57) in the closed configuration (CC), and
- switches the opening (57) to open configuration (AC) as soon as it receives, from the weight sensor (56), the actual weight of the pharmaceutical article.
9. A method for controlling and managing a plurality of pharmaceutical articles (AF), comprising the following steps:
- binding of a plurality of identifier devices (3), each including an emitter, configured to emit an acknowledgement signal, to the corresponding plurality of pharmaceutical articles (AF);
- binding of a communicator device (2) to a transport medium (MT);
- positioning of the plurality of pharmaceutical articles (AF) in the means of transport (MT);
- locating the communicating device (2) by means of a location module (22), configured to determine a geographic location of the means of transport (MT);
- reading, into a memory, a predetermined number of items;
- receiving the recognition signal emitted by each identification device (3);
- counting, at predetermined time intervals, the number of recognition signals received, in order to calculate an actual number of items housed in the means of transport (MT);
- comparing the actual number of articles with the pre-determined number of articles;
- sending an alarm signal to a remote terminal (4) via a communicator module (21) of the communicator device (2), in case the actual number of articles is less than the predetermined number of articles.
PCT/IB2021/056764 2021-03-31 2021-07-26 Control apparatus and control system for managing a plurality of pharmaceutical articles WO2022208152A1 (en)

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US20200253193A1 (en) * 2019-02-07 2020-08-13 Intellitote LLC Healthcare transport tote and condition tracking thereof

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US20200253193A1 (en) * 2019-02-07 2020-08-13 Intellitote LLC Healthcare transport tote and condition tracking thereof

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