Inventory control device.

(54) Title: INVENTORY CONTROL DEVICE.

(54) Title: INVENTORY CONTROL DEVICE.

(57) Summary

Systems and methods for extending battery life in inventory control devices are described. A passive receiver configured to wirelessly receive a start signal having an associated power field from a remote control system and to output a mode change signal is provided. The passive receiver is configured to be powered by an energy field associated with the start signal. A functional module coupled to the passive receiver is provided and configured to be powered by a separate power source when the functional module is in an active mode. The module or functional is also configured to receive the mode change signal from the passive receiver and to change from an inactive mode to an active mode. The functional module draws more power from the power source in active mode than in idle mode.

(57) Abstract

Systems and methods of extending battery lite in inventory control devices are disclosed. A passive receiver configured to wirelessly receive an initiation signal having an associated energy field from a remote control system and to output a mode change signal is provided. The passive receiver is configured to be powered by an energy field associated with the initiation signal. A functional module coupled to the passive receiver and configured to be powered by a self-contained power source when the functional module is in an active mode is provided. The functional module is further configured to receive the mode change signal from the passive receiver and to change from an inactive mode to the act ive mode. The functional module draws more power from the power source in the active mode than in the inactive mode.

INVENTORY CONTROL DEVICE

COUNTRYSIDE

The present disclosure relates to inventory control devices, and, in particular, to systems and methods for extending battery life in inventory control devices.

BACKGROUND

Some electronic control devices operate on an “on demand” basis, which means that the devices are configured to perform their dedicated function (s) only when required or called on by another control system, which will be referred to later as a "Remote control system". An example of such an on-demand electronic device is in an inventory control device attached to a warehouse for storing medical supplies in care facilities such as a hospital. Such a device frequently It includes a controller (for example, a processor) to carry out various functions related to the inventory of medical supplies in the containers to which the device is attached, and may also include a transceiver to wirelessly communicate information about inventory control, such as the quantity of supply items, to a remote control system that is configured to communicate with multiple devices / recipients.

Because on-demand electronic devices, such as the Inventor control device described above, are typically configured for a battery, it is important to minimize the power consumption by the devices as much as possible in order to avoid frequent battery replacement . However, it is frequently the case that at least a portion of the controller and / or the transceiver, (especially the receiving portion) in an electronic device on demand does not It needs to remain at least partially active in order to "keep an eye on" or detect an activation request or other commands that are sent wirelessly from the remote control system. A familiar example is a "sequence controller" function that is available on some processors. Under the sequence controller function, a processor is initially placed in an idle mode (for example asleep) that involves a small amount or does not consume power, and when the processor receives an input signal on a dedicated pin for the controller function In sequence, the processor wakes up from idle mode and switches to an operating mode that involves full power consumption. Similar sequence controller functions are available on some available transmitters. However, even in idle mode, power consumption can be non-trivial, especially if the receiver side of the transceiver has to remain active in order to detect a signal from the remote control system. Such non-trivial power consumption will drain batteries more quickly than is desirable.

Therefore there is a need for improvement in a system and method for extending battery life in on-demand electronic control devices such as wireless inventory control devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The modalities described herein provide systems and methods for extending battery life in electronic control devices on demand.

Certain embodiments provide a control device for inventing it. The inventive control device may comprise a passive receiver configured to wirelessly receive a start signal having an associated energy field from a remote control system and to output a mode change signal. The passive receiver is configured to be powered by an energy field associated with the start signal. The Inventory control device may further comprise a functional module coupled to the passive receiver and configured to be powered by a separate power source when the functional module is in an active mode. The functional module is configured to receive the mode change signal from the passive receiver and to change from idle mode to active mode in response to the mode change signal. The functional module draws more power from the power source in active mode than in idle mode.

Certain embodiments provide a method of conserving battery power in an inventory control device that has a passive receiver and a functional module. The method may comprise the passive receiver that receives a start signal that has an associated energy field from a remote control system. The method may further comprise the passive receptor that gene it was energy to the passive receiver from the energy field associated with the start signal. The method may further comprise the passive receiver that sends a mode change signal to the functional module. The method may further comprise the functional module that changes from an active mode to an inactive mode. The functional module uses more energy in active mode than in idle mode. The method may further comprise the functional module that performs a dedicated function in the active mode.

It is understood that both the above brief description and the following detailed description are illustrative and explanatory and are made to provide further explanation of the modalities as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate described embodiments and in conjunction with The description serves to explain the principles of the described modalities.

Figure 1 illustrates an illustrative inventory control system comprising a shelf containing multiple containers having inventory control devices and a remote control system in accordance with certain embodiments.

Figure 2 is a diagram of an illustrative container that includes a container for physically storing supply items and an inventory control device attached to the container to perform one or more dedicated inventory control functions in accordance with certain embodiments.

Figure 3A is an illustrative block circuit diagram for the inventory control device according to certain embodiments.

Figure 3B is an illustrative circuit diagram for a signal generator included in a passive receiver portion of the inventory control device in accordance with cie ª modalities.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a procedure for an illustrative inventory control device operation in accordance with certain embodiments.

Figure 5 is a block circuit diagram showing an illustrative functional module of the inventory control device according to certain embodiments.

Figure 6 is a block circuit diagram showing an alternative illustrative functional module of the inventory control device in accordance with certain embodiments.

Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an illustrative computer system in which certain features of the systems and methods described herein can be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are described to provide a full understanding of the described and claimed modalities. Be evident, however, to one skilled in the art that the modalities can be practiced without some of these specific details. In other cases, structures and techniques are known that are not shown in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description.

The word "illustrative is used here to mean" serving as an example, case, or illustration. Any modality or design is described herein as "illustrative and is not necessarily construed as preferred or advantageous over other modalities or designs.

In medical fields, health care facilities require large and varied inventories of medical supplies. One of the challenges in the healthcare environment is the ability of the care facility to maintain an adequate inventory of medical supplies, the demand for which cannot be predicted in advance, so such supplies will be immediately available to patients who need it. The Consumption rates of medical supplies can vary greatly over a period of time, and reliable inventory control of supplies is of critical importance.

In many health care facilities, numerous container racks are used to store medical supplies, such as medications and disposable parts for medical equipment; and container shelves are contained in a central supply room or rooms, or may be distributed through the Health Care Facility. Each container can contain one or more types of medical supply items, and multiple containers can be used to contain the same type of medical supply item. Manually inspecting each container and counting the number of remaining supply items in each container on a periodic basis would require substantial amounts of staff time.

In turn, a control device Electronic inventory role can be attached to each container and used to store data representing the quantity of remaining medical supplies in the container. In one application, the electronic inventor control device attached to the container can provide a visual or audio indication to alert a user, such as a nurse or other healthcare provider, of their location so that the user can quickly find the container that is contains certain supplies of interest. This can be accomplished, for example, through a remote control system that wirelessly sends an ID signal indicative of a particular container, and, an inventory control device attached to the particular container that provides a visual or audio indication afterward. receiving the ID signal. Alternatively or additionally, the inventory control device may have wireless communication capabilities to transmit wirelessly. It provides inventory control information, such as the quantity of supply item, to the remote inventory control system. The aforementioned inventory control devices operate on an "on demand" basis because such devices are normally in an idle mode and switch to an active mode when required or called by the remote inventory control system. The following description describes extending battery life in such inventory control devices attached to medical supply depots and configured to communicate with remote inventory control systems. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that the description of inventory control devices is for illustration purposes only, and the systems and methods described herein can be applied to other electronic devices on demand without departing from the scope of the present description.

FIG. 1 shows an illustrative inventory control system 100 comprising a shelf 101 containing multiple containers 110, 110A, and a remote control system 102 configured to interact wirelessly with containers 110, 110A. As illustrated in greater detail in Figure 2, container 110A includes a container 112 for physically storing supply items 114, and an electronic inventory control device 200 for wirelessly storing, processing, and / or communicating control information. Inventory (for example, the quantity of supply items 114). The remote control system 102 includes a computer system 120 that runs an application program that provides inventory control functions such as maintaining a database of different types of medical supply items, their respective current remaining quantities, and order status. . The 112 remote control system also incluy e a remote wireless communication device 130 including a first antenna 132 and a second antenna 134, and a transceiver 136 for processing wireless signals to be transmitted and / or received by the first and second antennas 134, 136. The communication device

Remote wireless 130 is in data communication with a translator 140. Translator 140 is in data communication with computer system 120. Translator 140 consolidates multiple copies of a message transmitted from Inventory control device 200 into an Individual message. to a computer system 120. In certain embodiments, each copy is labeled with an identifier (eg, a unique number) that is common to all the couplets in a message. Translator 140 may, for example, pass the first couplet of each message to computer system 120 and then may discard all subsequent couplets having the same Identification number. The system Computer ma 120 controls various transmissions and receiving functions of remote Wireless communication device 130 and receives inventory control or any other Information from inventory control device 200.

In certain modalities, the Inventor control device

200 keeps track of the quantity of the remaining supply items 114. For example, when one or more items 114 are removed from container 110A, a "take" button 210 is pressed on the Inventory control device 200 by the user removing it. Article. The Inventor 200 control device then lowers the count of the quantity of items 114. When one of the items is added on pin 110A, an "add" button 220 is pressed on the Invent device 200 by the user adding the item. The invent control device 200 then Increases the count of the quantity of articles 1 14. When multiple items 114 are taken or added, the respective button 210, 220 is pressed the number of times corresponding to the number of items 114 taken or added. In other embodiments, computer system 120 maintains the Inventory trail of remaining supply items in a container (eg, containers 110, 110A) based on a message received from inventory control device 200.

For example, the inventory control device 200 associated with a container sends a message to computer system 200, either directly or through translator 140, for each to press button 210 or button 220. Computer system 120 then you decrease or increase your inventory record for such a container.

In the illustrated example, device 200 also includes visual indicators 230, 240 (eg, LEDs) to alert a user after receiving an ID signal indicative of Device 200 from remote control system 102 or simply provide a status of the device such as a low battery condition. In alternative modes, audio indicators such as a buzzer are used to provide the alert function (s). In some embodiments, device 200 also includes a display, such as an LCD display or a collection of alphanumeric LED displays, to indicate the amount of supplies 114 and / or the status of the device.

As noted above, in certain embodiments, inventory control device 200 has wireless communication capabilities so that remote control system 102 can wirelessly query device 200 for certain inventory control information (eg, the quantity of remaining supply items 114), and device 200 can wirelessly send the queried information to remote control system 102.

Figure 3A is an illustrative block circuit diagram 300 for inventive inventive control device 200 of Figure 2 in accordance with certain embodiments. Circuit diagram 300 shows a passive receiver 310, a functional module 330 connected to the passive receiver 310, and an Independent power source 350 connected to the functional module 330. As used herein the term "independent power source" refers to a power source included in or otherwise associated with the inventive control device 200 and configured to provide electrical power (eg, DC voltage and current) to the functional module 330 of device 200 without receiving power from an AC power source (for example, a wall outlet) and includes at least one energy storage device such as a rechargeable or disposable battery and can optionally include a voltage regulator to provide regulated DC power to functional module 330. On the shaft Illustrated, the standalone power source (hereinafter referred to as the "power source") includes a 352 battery and a 354 voltage regulator.

The passive receiver 310 includes a receiver antenna 311 configured to receive a start signal 152 from the remote control system 102 (Figure 1). The passive receiver 310 further includes a rectification circuit 314 connected to the receiver antenna 311 and configured to rectify at least a portion of the received start signal 152 to produce a DC current. The rectification circuit 314 can include one or more fast diodes arranged in a full or medium wave bridge configuration. The passive receiver 310 further includes a capacitor 315 connected to the rectification circuit 314 and configured to be charged from the DC current produced by the rectification circuit 314. Capacitor 315 can be any capacitor capable of storing DC energy that includes, but or is not limited to, tantalum and electrolytic capacitors, which have a capacitance.

Receiver antenna 311 receives the magnetic or electrical field of ice signal 152. When the field-induced receiver antenna 311 output voltage is above the conduction threshold of a diode within rectification circuit 314, a charge current flows through the diode and stores a charge in capacitor 315 at a charge rate.

In the illustrated example, the passive receiver 310 further includes a signal generator 316 connected to capacitor 315 to power up accordingly and be configured to generate a mode change signal 301 when capacitor 315 is sufficiently charged (for example, over a voltage of threshold). FIG. 3B is an Illustrative circuit diagram for signal generator 316 configured to generate mode signal 301 in accordance with certain embodiments. In the illustrated example, the generator Signal Type 316 Includes a first resistor (R1) 321, a second resistor (R2) 322, a third resistor (R3) 323, a diode (D) 326, and an op amp 328. In certain embodiments, R2 322 and R3 323 they are substantially of the same value (for example, about 10 megohms). R1 321 can be the same value or higher than the value for R2 322 and R3 323. The charge stored in capacitor 315 is discharged through R2-R3 322-323 over time, but the charge rate is much higher than the discharge rate for capacitor 315 while the field associated with the start signal is applied 152. When the voltage over capacitor 325 is high enough, the voltage turns on the op amp

328.

In the illustrated example, D 326 is a Zener diode with a breakdown voltage of approximately 1 volt, for example. The voltage between R2 322 and R3 323 is substantially about half the voltage across capacitor 315 and is the input at the positive terminal of op amp 328. The voltage between R1 321 and D 326, which is the negative input of op amp 328, raises the breakdown voltage of D2 326 and then remains at that level. Consequently, as the voltage across capacitor 315 rises from zero to 1 volt, for example, the positive input rises to 0.5 volts while the negative input rises to 1 volt, and the output of the op amp is zero. When the voltage across capacitor 315 exceeds 2 volts, for example, the negative input is still 1 volt and the positive input exceeds 1 volt, causing the output of op amp 328 to change to the designated output voltage (a control circuit for set this voltage to be omitted from this figure).

Returning now to Figure 3A, functional module 330 is configured to perform one or more dedicated functions, such as keeping track of the Inventory of items. Remaining supply lines 114 (Figure 2) and communicating data signals 154 to and from the remote Inventor 102 control system (Figure 1). In the illustrated example, functional module 330 includes a controller 332 (eg, a processor and / or logic circuit), a transceiver antenna 331 that is capable of receiving and transmitting data signals

154 to and from remote control system 102 through second antenna 134, and a transmitter 334 associated with transceiver antenna 331 and configured to perform signal processing functions associated with data signals 154 such as RF generation, modulation, and / or demodulation. Transceiver antenna 331 can be a single antenna, such as a dipole antenna, that is capable of receiving and transmitting data signals 154, or can include separate transmitter and receiver antennas, or even an array of antennas. Various connection condition arrangements are possible between the cont Roller 332, transceiver 334, and power source 350, of which two examples will be illustrated in and described below with respect to Figures 5 and 6. Although the functional module 320 is powered by the power source 350 at least in the active mode, the passive receiver module 310 is not energized, and therefore does not draw power from the power source 350.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a procedure 400 for an illustrative operation of the flow control device.

Invent it 200 (Figure 2) according to certain modalities. For the purpose of illustration clearly without Intent of limitation, procedure 400 will be described with specific references to Figures 1 and 3. Also for the purpose of illustration, assume that the remote control system 102 (Figure 1) wishes to engage in data communication with the Inventor 200 control device associated with container 110A to acquire c Certain Information, such as quantity of supply items or low battery condition, from device 200. Initially, functional module 330 is placed in an Idle mode where functional module 330 draws little or no power from power source 350. This can be accomplished, for example, by completely turning off transceiver 334 (both the receiver portions and transmitter) or by placing the transceiver in a low power mode, for example, by turning off the transmitter portion but leaving the receiver portion in a low power or other partially active mode. Accordingly, transceiver 334 in idle mode draws much less energy from power source 350 than in conventional configurations where at least a portion of the transceiver's receiver is in an active mode for the purpose of detecting a query signal. Similarly, controller 332 is either completely turned off or placed in a low power mode. <

Procedure 400 begins in a state 410, where the passive receiver 310 receives the ice signal 152 having an energy field from the wireless communication device 130 through the receiver antenna 311. Start signal 152 is preferably a signal that has a low carrier frequency (eg 13.56 MHz) that has a relatively long wavelength and a wide beam width to cover containers 110, 110A (Figure 1) with substantially the same strength of the energy field. Procedure 400 proceeds to a state 420, where the passive receiver 310 generates DC power from the power field associated with the received start signal 154. This can be accomplished, for example, by rectification circuit 314 which rectifies the Start signal 152 to produce a DC current and capacitor 315 is sufficiently charged by the DC current. Sufficient charge of capacitor 315 can Engage passive receiver 310 that it receives one or more start signals of varying lengths depending on the strength of the energy field, the conversion efficiency of rectification circuit 314, and / or the capacitance of capacitor 315. Procedure 400 proceeds to a state 430, where passive receiver 310 outputs the mode change signal 310 to functional module 330 once capacitor 315 is sufficiently charged with DC current, for example, over the threshold. The mode change signal 301 may remain on (eg, high logic) while the voltage across capacitor 315 remains above the threshold voltage.

Alternatively, the mode change signal 301 may be a single short pulse that lasts, for example, several microseconds only.

Procedure 400 proceeds to a state 440, where functional module 330 changes from the initial idle mode to an active mode in response to the mode change signal 301 received from of the passive receiver 310. As used herein, the term "active mode" as applied to functional module 330 is defined or characterized in relation to "inactive mode in that functional module 330 extracts or uses more energy from the 350 power source in active mode than in idle mode. For example, controller 332 changes from an off state to a low power mode to an operating mode in response to the mode change signal. Transceiver 334 can also change from an off state or a low power mode to an operating mode. Details regarding the functional module 330 effecting the change from idle mode to active mode will be described in detail below with respect to Figures 4 and 5.

Procedure 400 proceeds to a state 450, where functional module 330, now in active mode, engages in data communication with remote control system 102 when start signal 152 arrives upon receipt and / or tran transmitting data signal 154. Data signal 154 can be any RF or microwave signal. In certain embodiments, the data signal 154 emitted by the second antenna 134 of the remote wireless communication device 130 associated with the remote control system 102 is substantially omni-directional to cover all containers 110, 110A. In other embodiments, the data signal 154 emitted by the second antenna 134 (eg, a phase arrangement antenna) is directional, meaning that it is directed to a particular container (eg, container 110A) at the location known relative.

As an example of data communication between functional module 330 and remote control system 102, functional module

330 receives an ID signal from remote control system 102, wherein the ID signal comprises ID data indicative of at least one Inventory control device among a plurality of devices Inventory control 110, 110A. Controller 332 receives and extracts (eg decodes) the ID data and compares it to stored data indicative of a unique ID of the inventory control device 200 or the container 110A to which the device 200 is attached. If the controller 332 determines that the ID data and the stored data match, indicating that the remote control system 102 wishes to engage in data communication with the particular device 200, the functional module 330 performs or waits for additional data communication with the remote control system 102 or performs other dedicated functions such as providing a visual or audio indication to alert a user of their location, for example.

As another example of data communication, functional module 330 listens to a query signal from remote control system 102, which requests certain information from remote control system 102. Once it reci be the query signal by functional module 330, controller 332 decrypts what information is being queried or requested, prepares data representative of the requested information, and outputs the data to transceiver 334 where a data signal is generated comprising the data. The data signal is transmitted to remote control system 102 through transceiver antenna 331.

Procedure 400 proceeds to a state 460, where functional module 330 returns to idle mode from active mode if one or more preset conditions are satisfied. For example, in certain embodiments, functional module 330 returns to idle mode if functional module 330 does not receive an ID signal indicative of wireless communication device 200 from remote control system 102 within a preset length of time after receiving the mode change signal. Functional module 330 can also return to idle mode if the module Functional 330 does not receive a data signal 154 (eg, a query signal) from remote control system 102 within a preset length of time after receiving the indicative ID signal from wireless communication device 200. The functional module 330 can also return to idle mode if the functional module 330 does not receive a new data signal from the remote control system 102 within a preset length of time after a last data communication such as receiving a query or a transmission of the Information consulted to and from the remote control system

102.

It should be appreciated that various illustrated and described embodiments with respect to Figures 1-4 are for illustration purposes only, and various modifications to the illustrated or entirely different embodiments may be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in certain fashion The inventory control device 200 is not physically attached to container 112. Instead, device 200 can be attached or otherwise attached to shelf 101 near container 112. Alternatively, device 200 can be mounted on the outside of the cabinet or refrigerator containing multiple containers. In such alternative embodiments, the association of the Inventor 200 control device with container 112 can be accomplished through common labeling of the device and container. The device 200, instead of being attached to the front of the container 112, may be attached to the side or to the rear or to the bottom or to the Interior of the container 112. Different containers 110 may have different sizes of containers. Remote Wireless communication device 130 may have only one antenna instead of two antennas 132, 134 as shown in Figure 1. An antenna of the remote Wireless communication device 130 it may be capable of transmitting both ice signal 152 and data signals 154. Start signal 152 and data signals 154 may have the same carrier frequency. Similarly, inventory control device 200 may include one antenna instead of two antennas 311, 331 as shown in Figure 3A. An antenna of the inventory control device 200 can receive the start signal and transmit and receive data signals 154. The antenna (s) associated with the inventory control device 200 can be positioned outside the device 200. Although the power source 350 is shown separate from functional module 330 in the illustrated examples of Figures 3, 5, and 6, power source 350 may be included with functional module 330. The passive receiver 310, 310A, B may not have the separate dedicated signal generator 316 to generate the mode change signal 301. In turn, the voltage across capacitor 315 exceeds a threshold voltage ( eg 3 volts) can act as the mode change signal to activate the mode change (s) described in functional module 330, 330A.B. In certain embodiments, all or some of the functions of the passive receiver 310 and the functional module 330 may be implemented in an individual integrated circuit (IC) comprising a processor or other logic or analog circuit components.

FIG. 5 is a block circuit diagram 300A illustrating an illustrative functional module 330A in accordance with certain embodiments. Circuit diagram 300A illustrates the passive receiver 310, a functional module 330A connected to the passive receiver 310, and the power source 350 connected to the functional module 330A. In the illustrated example, the passive receiver 310 has the same configuration as the passive receiver 310 shown in Figure 3A, and the description of the passive receiver 310 given above with respect to Figure 3A is not repeated here. The following descrip This in turn will focus on how various components of functional module 330A are arranged and how the components (particularly controller 332 and transceiver 334) are connected to and draw power from power source 350.

Functional module 330A includes a controller 332A having an input connected to the output of passive receiver 310 and configured to receive the mode change signal 301, a transceiver 334 in data communication with controller 332, and a 331 transceiver antenna connected to transceiver 334 to receive and transmit data signals to and from remote controller system 102 (Figure 1). Illustrative functional module 330B further includes memory 336 for storing information such as ID data for device 200 and the number of remaining supply items in container 112 (Figure 2). Memory 336 can be powered by power source 350 or a separate battery (not shown). The module works Onal 330A also includes the “take 210” button and the “add” button 220 both connected to 332A controller inputs and configured to be pressed by the user when removing and adding the supply item (s) from and to container 112, respectively, as described above with respect to Figure 2. Illustrative functional module 330B further includes Indicators 230, 240 (eg LED or buzzer) connected to outputs of controller 332A and configured to provide an alert to a user, in the manner also described above with respect to Figure 2. More significantly Both controller 332A and transceiver 334A are directly connected to and configured to be powered from power source 350.

The 330A functional module is initially placed in an Idle mode. In certain modes, in idle mode, one or both of the 332A controller and the 334A transceiver are placed in a low power mode where a minimal (but not zero) amount of power is drawn from power source 350. In other embodiments, one or both of controller 332A and transceiver 334A are placed in an off state where no power is drawn from the source. power 350. Then, the remote control system 102, or more particularly, the first antenna 132 of the remote Wireless control device 130 (Figure 1) transmits a start signal 152 to the receptacles 110, 110A. The passive receiver 310 of the Inventor 200 control device associated with the container 11 0A receives the ice signal 152 through the receiver antenna 311 and generates the mode change signal 301 in the manner described above with respect to the Figure 3A. Controller 332A receives the mode change signal 301 from passive receiver 310 and switches from low-energy mode to an operating mode where controller 332A begins to draw a greater amount of energy from the source power 350 in response to the mode change signal 301. Furthermore, in response to the mode change signal 301, the controller 332A provides an output indicative of the reception of the mode change signal 301 to the transceiver 334A, and the transceiver 334A changes from a low power mode to a mode. of operation in response to the output. At this stage, inventory control device 200 has switched from an idle mode to an active mode where controller 332A and / or transceiver 334A are ready to engage in data communication with remote control system 102 or for perform or dedicated function (s). An illustrative data communication operation of a remote control system is provided above with respect to functional module 330 of Figure 3A and is not repeated here.

FIG. 6 is a block circuit diagram 300B illustrating another illustrative functional module 330B in accordance with certain embodiments. The diagra Circuit ma 300B shows the passive receiver 310, a functional module 330B connected to the passive receiver 310, and the power source 350 connected to the functional module 330B.

In the Illustrative example, the passive receiver 310 has the same configuration as the passive receiver 310 shown in Figures 3 and 4. Therefore, the description of the passive receiver 310 is not repeated here. Furthermore, the functional module 330B and the functional module 330A (Figure 5) share some components such as the take and add button 21 0, 220, memory 336, and Indicators 230,

240, and their descriptions will not be repeated. Rather, the following description will focus on how a controller 332B, transceiver 334B, and switch 610 of functional module 330B are connected, electrically and operationally, to passive receiver 310 and power source 350.

The 330B functional module Includes the 332B controller and 334B transceiver in data communication with the Controller 332B, and a transceiver antenna 331 is connected to transceiver 334B to receive and transmit data signals to and from remote control system 102 (Figure 1). Functional module 330B further includes switch 610 having a power input 612, a power output 614, and a control input 616. Examples of switch 610 include, but are not limited to, a semiconductor switch such as a FET or bipolar transistor switch, and an electromechanical relay, and a magnetic switch such as a Reed relay. Power input 612 of Switch 610 is connected to power source 350, and power output 614 of switch 610 is connected to power inputs (eg, voltage) of controller 332B and transceiver 334B. The switch control input 616 is connected to the passive receiver output 310 and configured to receive the mode change signal 301.

Switch 616 is initially You are in a normally open position so that in the absence of the mode change signal 301, controller 332B and transceiver 334B are disconnected from power source 350. Then, remote control system 102, or more particularly, the First antenna 132 of the remote Wireless control device 130 (Figures 1 and 2) transmits the Start signal 152 to the receptacles 110, 110A. The passive receiver 310 of the inventory control device 200 associated with the container 110A receives the ice signal 152 through the receiver antenna 311 and generates the mode change signal 301 in the manner described above with respect to the

Figure 3A. Switch 610 receives the mode change signal 301 from passive receiver 310 and switches from the normally open position to a closed position so that controller 332B and transceiver 334B are now connected to power source 350. Once it receives power, the 332B controller and the Receiver 334B are configured to switch from non-power states to modes of operation, consequently causing functional module 330B to change from Idle mode to an active mode where the controller

332B and / or transceiver 334B are ready to engage in data communication with remote control system 102 or to perform other dedicated function (s). An illustrative data communication operation of a remote control system was provided above with respect to functional module 330 of Figure 3A and is not repeated here.

It should be appreciated by those of skill in the art in view of the present disclosure that various modifications can be made to the modalities illustrated in Figures 5 and 6 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the functional module

330Α of Figure 5 can be modified so that the mode change signal 301 of the passive receiver 310 is connected to the input as (for example, trigger inputs) on both controller 332A and receiver 334A. With the modification, both controller 332A and transceiver 334A receive the mode change signal 301 at the same time and can switch from their respective low energy modes to the operating modes at the same time. Some characteristics of the modalities of Figures 5 and 6 can be mixed. For example, in an alternative embodiment, one of the controller and transceiver is powered directly by power source 350 while the other of the controller and transceiver is powered through switch 610. Memory 336 may be part of controller 332. Controller 332 can be part of transceiver 334. Power source 350 can be part of functional module 330A.B. Some modes may not have the separate 332A.B controller.

In accordance with certain modalities, certain aspects of the systems and methods described here are performed p or a computer system 700 in response to processor 704 executing one or more sequences of one or more Instructions contained in memory 706. For example, computer system 120 running an application program that provides inventory control functions such as maintaining a database of different types of medical supplies, their respective current remaining quantities, and their order status, such as the one described above with respect to Figure 1 can be implemented with the computer system 700 shown in Figure 7 with the processor 704 running Instructions for the application program. In addition, some of the functions of functional module 330, 330A, 330B of Figures 3, 5, and 6 can be implemented with computer system 700, with processor 704 performing the described functions of controller 332, and memory 706 performing the described functions of memory 336. Processor 704 may be a micr processor, micro-controller, and digital signal processor (DSP) capable of executing computer instructions. Such instructions may be read into memory 706 from another machine-readable medium, such as a data storage device 710. Execution of the instruction sequences contained in main memory 706 causes processor 704 to perform the procedural steps here. described. One or more processors may also be employed in a multiple processing arrangement to execute the sequences of instructions contained in memory 706. In alternative modes, the wired circuit system can be used instead of or in combination with the Software Instructions to implement various modes. Thus, the modalities are not limited to any specific combination of hardware and software circuitry.

The term "machine readable medium" as used herein refers to It refers to any means involved in providing instructions to the 704 processor for execution or storage of results of or parameters (eg, variables or constants) for calculations such as for determining the pressure of fluid within the cartridge based on a measurement variable perceived. Such media can take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, standard media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media Include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as a 710 data storage device. Volatile media Include dynamic memory, such as memory 706. Transmission media Include coaxial cables, copper cable, and fiber Optical, including cables that comprise a common conductor 702. The transmission media can also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio frequency and infrared data communications. Common forms of machine-readable media include, for example, floppy disk, floppy disk, hard drive, magnetic tape, any other magnetic media, CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical media, punched cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with hole patterns, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

The foregoing description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various modalities described herein. Although the foregoing embodiments have been particularly described with reference to the various figures and embodiments, it should be understood that these are for illustration purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

There may be many other ways to implement the invention. Various functions and elements described here can d Divided differently from those shown without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments. Thus, many changes and modifications to the invention can be made by one skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

A reference to a singular element is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically mentioned, but rather “one or more”. The term "some" refers to one or more. Underlined and / or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, they do not limit the invention, and are not named in connection with the Interpretation of the disclosure of the invention. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various modalities of the Invention described tr Other than this disclosure which is known or will become known to those skilled in the art are expressly incorporated herein and are intended to be encompassed by the invention. Furthermore, nothing described here purports to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such description is explicitly mentioned in the description above.

All elements, parts and steps described here are preferably included. It should be understood that any of these elements, parts, and steps can be replaced by other elements, parts, and steps or removed entirely as will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

Broadly, this description describes systems and methods to extend battery life in inventory control devices. A passive receiver configured to wirelessly receive a Start signal having an associated energy field from a remote control system and to output a mode change signal is provided. The passive receiver is It is configured to be powered by an energy field associated with the ice signal. A functional module coupled to the passive receiver is provided and configured to be powered by a separate power source when the functional module is in active mode. The functional module is further configured to receive the mode change signal from the passive receiver and to change from an inactive mode to an active mode. The functional module draws more power from the power source in active mode than in idle mode.

CONCEPTS

This writing has described at least the following concepts.

Concept 1. An inventory control device comprising:

A passive receiver configured to wirelessly receive a start signal that has an associated energy field from a remote control system and to output a mode change signal, the passive receiver configured to be powered by a energy associated with the start signal; and a functional module coupled to the passive receiver and configured to be powered by a separate power source when the functional module is in an active mode, the functional module configured to receive the mode change signal from the passive receiver and to change a mode Idle to active mode in response to the mode change signal, the functional module draws more power from the power source in active mode than in idle mode.

Concept 2. The device of concept 1, wherein the passive receiver further comprises a rectifier circuit coupled to a capacitor, the rectifier circuit converts the start signal to a direct current to charge the capacitor.

Concept 3. The concept 2 device, wherein the passive receiver is configured to output the mode change signal when the capacitor is charged over a threshold voltage.

Concept 4. The disp ositive of Concept 1, where the power source of the functional module comprises a battery.

Concept 5. The Concept 1 device, where the functional module comprises a controller connected to the power source, the controller being placed in a controller low-energy mode when the functional module is in the idle mode, also where the controller is configured to receive the mode change signal from the passive receiver and to change from the low power mode of the controller to a mode of operation of the controller in response to the mode change signal, the controller drawing more power from the power source in the controller operating mode than in the controller low power mode.

Concept 6. The Concept 5 device, wherein the functional module further comprises a transceiver connected to the power source, the transceiver being placed in a low power mode of the transceiver whenever ndo in functional mode is in idle mode, in addition where the transceiver is configured to switch from the low energy mode of the transceiver to a mode of operation of the transceiver in response to the mode change signal, the transceiver by drawing more power from the power source in the transceiver mode of operation than in the low power mode of the transceiver.

Concept 7. The Concept 6 device, wherein the controller is further configured to provide an output indicative of mode change signal reception to the transceiver, the transceiver switches from the low power mode of the transceiver to the transceiver mode of operation. in response to departure.

Concept 8. The Concept 1 device, wherein the functional module comprises a controller and a Switch coupled between the controller and the power source, the controller is disconnected by the switch from the power source when the functional module is In idle mode, the switch configured to receive the mode change signal from the passive receiver and to connect the controller to the power source in response to the mode change signal.

Concept 9. The Concept 8 device, where the functional module further comprises a transceiver coupled to the switch, the transceiver is disconnected by the switch from the power source when the functional module is in Idle mode, where the source is also configured to connect the transceiver to the power source in response to the mode change signal.

Concept 10. The Concept 1 device, wherein the functional module is further configured for at least one to send a data signal to and receive a data signal from the remote control system when the functional module is in active mode.

Concept 11. The device of Concept 1, where the functional module is also configured to return Enter idle mode if an ID signal indicative of the wireless communication device is not received within a preset length of time after receiving the mode change signal.

Concept 12. The Concept 11 device, wherein the functional module is further configured to return to idle mode if no data signal is received from the remote control system within a preset time duration after receiving the indicative ID signal from the wireless communication device.

Concept 13. The Concept 12 device, wherein the functional module is further configured to return to idle mode if a new data signal is not received from the remote control system within a preset time duration after receiving a last signal from data.

Concept 14. The device of concept 1, wherein the functional module further comprises at least one visual or audio indicator for ale rt a user when an ID signal indicative of the wireless communication device is received by the functional module.

Concept 15. The Concept 1 device, where the inventory control device is coupled to a container configured to store an inventory of supply items.

Concept 16. The device of Concept 15, where the functional module is also configured to transmit representative data of the inventory stored in the container.

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<td>understands at least</td><td>a</td><td>button for</td><td>indicate when</td><td>I know</td><td>take one or</td>

<td>more supplies o</td><td>I know</td><td colspan="2">add to container.</td><td></td><td></td>

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Function module is configured to transmit data indicative of one or more supplies taken from or added to the container to an external computer system that performs inventory tracking.

Concept 19. A method of conserving battery power in an inventory control device having a passive receiver and a functional module, the method comprises:

the passive receiver that receives a start signal that has an associated energy field from a remote control system;

the passive receiver that generates power for the passive receiver of the energy field associated with the start signal;

the passive receiver that sends a mode change signal to the functional module;

the functional module that changes from an inactive mode to an active mode, the functional module using more energy in the active mode than in the inactive mode; and the functional module that performs a function dedicated in active mode.

Concept 20. The method of Concept 19, where the generation comprises converting the start signal into a direct current (DC) signal.

Concept 21. The method of Concept 19, wherein the functional module that switches from idle mode to active mode comprises providing the mode change signal to at least one of a controller and a transceiver and making at least one of the controller and The transceiver switches from a low-power mode to an operating mode, at least one of the controller and the transceiver extracting using more power in the operating mode than in the low-power mode.

Concept 22. The method of Concept 19, where the functional module that changes from inactive mode to active mode comprises:

providing the mode change signal to a control input of a switch in the functional module, the switch having a power input connected to a power source a and a power outlet connected to at least one of a controller and a transceiver; and the switch connects the power source to at least one of the controller and the transceiver in response to the mode change signal.

Concept 23. The method of Concept 19, wherein the functional module that performs the dedicated function comprises the functional module that communicates data related to an inventory of supply items to the remote control system.

Concept 24. The method of Concept 19, wherein the functional module that performs the dedicated function comprises the functional module that provides at least one of a visual and an audio alert indicative of the location of the wireless communication device.

Concept 25. The Concept 19 method, which also includes returning the functional module to Idle mode if one or more pre-established conditions are satisfied.

Concept 26. The method of Concept 25, where one or more preset conditions comprise the functional module that does not receive an Indicative ID signal from the wireless communication device from the remote control system within a preset length of time after receiving the mode change signal.

Concept 27. The method of Concept 26, wherein one or more of the preset conditions further comprise the functional module that does not receive a data signal from the remote control system within a preset time duration after receiving the ID signal.

Concept 28. The method of Concept 27, wherein one or more of the pre-established conditions further comprises the functional module that does not receive a new data signal from the remote control system within a pre-established length of time after a last data communication .