Patent Grant
11301741
The presently disclosed subject matter generally relates to lock or access control systems, and more particularly to data control for electronically controlled lock systems such as may be applied to various storage enclosures or cabinets to provide secure storage of various items, equipment, materials, and/or information within the enclosures or cabinets. More specifically, certain present aspects may relate to associated and/or integrated inventory control, billing, diversion control, and/or inventory future utilization planning, all in connection with the ability to access a central server over a network such as an 802.11 WiFi wireless network. Further, certain present aspects may relate to associated and/or integrated storage features for medicinal dosages for inventory control, billing, diversion control, and/or inventory future utilization planning. Particularly in conjunction with the storage of controlled substances, such as some drugs utilized on an EMS vehicle, in some presently disclosed instances, a tamper evident RFID tag may be fully or partially destroyed or damaged, or otherwise impacted or affected so as to generate a changed ID, whenever the contained medicinal dosage is acquired for administration. In some such instances, specific container/cap combinations may accommodate various drug dosages, and may be combinable with tamper evident RFID tags.
Many occasions arise that require or make desirable access control of different cabinets, entryway doors, carts, tool boxes, and/or other types of boxes, hereafter (regardless generally of their compositions, materials, or configurations) collectively referred to as an enclosure or cabinet. Such enclosures or cabinets may be provided with doors and/or may also include removable storage boxes or drawers.
The need and/or desire for access control usually arises from the lack of security often provided by typical lock and key mechanisms. For example, a mechanical key may be lost or stolen. Once such a lost or stolen key has been surreptitiously obtained by an unauthorized individual, such individual in possession of such key may easily access the secured enclosure to either steal its contents, for example, as in the case of secured medicines or other controlled substances. Further, when such enclosures or cabinets are portable, issues can become compounded for tracking when and by whom such access took place. For controlled substances, it may be desirable and/or required to track what is referenced as a “chain of custody” in terms of who is responsible for accounting. “Chain of custody” in the present context is meant to be able to know and show who was in control of an item (for example, a controlled substance) minute-by-minute, so that that level of control can be established at every moment of a day or given time period. “Chain of custody” level of information and data can be advantageous for many practical reasons, but in some instances may be an absolute need, such as in the case of evidence in a legal matter.
Such shortcomings of keyed mechanical locks have contributed to the creation of the specialized field of electronic access control.
Typically, electronic access control may correspond to a three part system, including, for example: (1) a credential reader, (2) a microprocessor based control circuit, and (3) an electronic lock to open or unlock the enclosure being secured by the access control system.
Credential readers may include, but are not limited to: keypads, magnetic stripe card readers, proximity card readers, “ibuttons,” smart card readers, and/or bar code card readers. In the recent past, there has been significant progress in the field of biometrics that includes, but is not limited to, the ability to reliably read and discern an individual's fingerprints, handprints, and retina and/or facial features.
Generally speaking, credential and/or biometric readers typically convert their applicable credential or biometric features, respectively, into a binary number. A microprocessor based system then reads and analyzes such binary number. Such systems are typically either standalone (attached to the reader) or networked (attached to many readers). Typically, they may read the binary number that corresponds to the potential entrant's credential or biometric features and compare it to a list of approved binary numbers. In such fashion, the microprocessor based system determines if the potential entrant has the right to access the enclosure or cabinet being secured by the access control system.
If the microprocessor based system determines that the subject credential or biometric feature under consideration is valid, access is granted to the enclosure. Typically, such is accomplished by the microprocessor turning on an electronic control circuit corresponding to solid state devices or relays which in turn provide a useable electrical voltage to open an electronic lock mechanism.
The electronic access control system may be networked to control multiple electronic locks for providing secure storage for many cabinets or enclosures, or individual doors and drawers in such cabinets or enclosures. Such electronic access control systems often require the management and control of various types of data associated with the electronic access system and/or a particular electronic lock, enclosure, or cabinet. For example, such electronic access control systems may include a significant amount of stored data regarding both users of the electronic access system and the electronic locks themselves. Typical user data may include: user name, credential type and ID, supervisor level, and valid access times. Typical lock data may include: lock name, access hardware (e.g. keypad or hardware), and open time. Electronic access control systems also typically include a database of relational data detailing which users can access or open which electronic locks.
Other types of data or information used in electronic control systems may include inventory data and/or audit trail data. Many occasions arise where there is an identified need to store and track individual items or particular types of items stored in a cabinet or enclosure. One such circumstance relates to the field of controlled medications (i.e. medicinal products) and, in particular, narcotics as may be administered to patients in a medical facility. Another application may be in the storage of tools or other parts in cabinets or enclosures. In such occasions, it may be desirable to maintain inventory data at the electronic lock as to the status of individual items or particular types of items stored in a cabinet or enclosure. Another aspect of inventory data gathering is a desire for a fully automated system to be implemented where possible, meaning that such specific data gathering is completely transparent to the user, such that the user is not required to make any specific effort. In other words, a fully automated system regarding inventory data would be one where the user is manipulating the inventory as needed for inventory usage purposes, while the system is otherwise keeping up with inventory data without requiring any special actions or attention of the inventory user.
It may also be desirable to store and track which users gained access to which cabinets or enclosures, as well as the time of such access by the user. Such information or data may be tracked and stored as audit trail data and conveyed in an audit trail report to a supervisor or other individual.
Certain access control systems also incorporate environmental monitoring systems that can record environmental data, such as temperature. For example, as is known in the medical profession, certain medications may be temperature sensitive and rendered unfit for use if not maintained within a given temperature range. Under such conditions, therefore, a need exists not only to secure such medications but to also continuously monitor the temperature at which they are stored. Such data may also be conveyed in an audit trail format to a supervisor or other individual.
The various data used or created by the access control system may need to be modified or updated, often on a regular basis, due to the continuously changing circumstances of the environment in which the access control system is used. For example, updates may need to be made as to which users can access which cabinets or enclosures. In the storage of medical products, updates may be desired which may include: settings of respective high and low temperature limits for the storage of the medical products, settings of the permitted time period outside such desired limits, settings of various alarms, and the setting of restricted access if certain limits are reached.
Access control systems may allow manipulation and control of the access control data at the actual electronic lock itself. In such circumstances, the updating and modification of access control data for each of the individual electronic locks may require a supervisor, serviceman, or someone of higher position than a “normal” user to go to the lock with a computer such as a laptop computer to perform the data updating and manipulation. In some systems, access control data may be updated on a central computer. Currently there are systems that will allow remote database manipulation and audit trail or other information downloads.
One specialized circumstance involves what may be referenced as a “narcotics box,” which is transported such as on an ambulance (Emergency Medical Services vehicle) for use by EMS personnel, such as paramedics or other first responders. Furthermore, such narcotics box may be preloaded by a supervisor, and then carried onto an EMS vehicle for possible use during the course of a shift. For example, the current assignee provides a narcotics box for EMS vehicles, which is outfitted with an electronic lock to provide access control along with an audit trail. Communications may be via WiFi, Ethernet, or a completely non-network based arrangement. The box itself may be comprised of a heavy duty construction, such as seam welded 14 gauge steel, and have a scratch-resistant finish. Further, the box may have a built-in converter for dedicated power when used on an EMS vehicle, along with an auto-relocking door feature with mechanical key override.
Commonly owned US patents related to electronic lock subject matter include, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,116,067 entitled “Electronically Controlled Lock System for Tool Containers”; U.S. Pat. No. 7,145,434 entitled “System and Method for Key Control in an Electronic Locking System”; U.S. Pat. No. 7,380,426 entitled Panel Lock for Electronic, Electrical, or Control Cabinet“; U.S. Pat. No. 7,768,378 entitled Field Retrofittable Refrigerator Lock with Audit Trail”; U.S. Pat. No. 8,199,019 entitled “Field Retrofittable Refrigerator Lock with Temperature Monitoring, Temperature Based Access Control and Alarming”; U.S. Pat. No. 8,516,864 entitled “Electronic Latch Mechanism”; U.S. Pat. No. 8,742,889 entitled “Apparatus and Method for Electronic Access Control”; and U.S. Pat. No. 8,970,344 entitled “Method and System for Data Control in Electronic Locks.”
In addition, inventory control generally involves the specific awareness of items and numbers of inventory items. In the context of a so-called narcotics box and stored controlled substances, such data ideally would be dosage and drug specific, as well as numerically specific.
In the subject of tracking individual pieces of inventory, a field has developed which relates to so-called radio frequency-based identification (RFID) technology. Very simply, RFID involves the use of electromagnetic fields for the purpose of automatically identifying (and therefore tracking) RFID tags attached to or associated with specific objects. One manufacturer called “Times-7” (Cupertino, Calif.) provides various limited profile UHF RFID antennas suitable for a range of space constrained applications, such as flush wall mounting or other restrictive environments faced by users. Another manufacturer called Impinj (Seattle, Wash.) provides high-performance, enterprise-class fixed RFID readers. Another manufacturer MEPS Real-Time, Inc. (Carlsbad, Calif.) combines RFID tagging with contents in a refrigerator to take inventory of everything that was removed or restocked back based on such RFID tags. MEPS has various US patents, including U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,812,774; 7,830,320; 7,911,402; 8,179,323; 8,384,545; 8,633,863; 8,686,859; 8,928,140; 9,013,307; 9,013,309; 9,189,769; and 9,223,934, and including published US patent applications including United States Patent Application Publication Nos. 20170013071 and 20110216364. Other companies such as Ruro (Frederick, Md.) and TERSO SOLUTIONS GMBH (Madison, Wis.) provide various inventory management systems. Another US patent disclosing the use of RFID is U.S. Pat. No. 9,536,359 entitled “Delivery system via electronic lockboxes.”
The complete disclosures of all US patent publication-related documents referenced herein are fully incorporated herein by reference, and for all purposes.
While various implementations of data control for access control systems have been developed, no design has emerged that generally encompasses all of the desired characteristics as hereafter presented in accordance with the subject technology.
In view of the recognized features encountered in the prior art and addressed by the presently disclosed subject matter, improved apparatus and methodology are presently disclosed for combined electronic inventory data and access control in electronic lock based access control systems. It is to be understood that the presently disclosed subject matter equally encompasses both apparatus and methodology.
In one exemplary configuration, an electronic access and inventory system may include tracking of a plurality of doses of controlled substances such that a virtual “chain of custody” is established and maintained. “Chain of custody” in the present context is meant to be able to know and show who was in control of an item (for example, a controlled substance) minute-by-minute, so that that level of control can be established at every moment of a day or given time period.
In accordance with certain aspects of certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, tracking may be established and maintained for a narcotics box or case location. In further detailed embodiments, the narcotics box or case contents (that is, the controlled substances-drugs) may be tracked.
In yet other exemplary embodiments, such tracking may specifically take place in the context of an ambulance narcotics box case/contents, involving such as EMS personnel, such that a complete record of custody of the case/contents is maintained from morning or start-of-shift removal from a central station, to throughout the work day, to return to station.
Some exemplary embodiments herewith relate to various configurations for RFID tags to be incorporated directly with a “product” (or medicine dosage pak) such that the pak/RFID tag combination is destroyed or has altered performance (ID characteristic) when it is opened, thereby causing the RFID tag to no longer further operate in the same way as it did previously. Such various “product” alternative embodiments may operate and/or be used in conjunction and combination with systems and methods otherwise described herein, particularly to accommodate different sized or shaped medicinal items (such as vials, ampules, or preloaded injectables) to be administered.
In accordance with yet additional aspects of certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the electronic access system may be configured for placement of RFID tags directly on a “product” (or medicine dosage pak) such that the pak is destroyed or has altered performance (ID characteristic) when it is opened, thereby causing the RFID tag to no longer further operate in the same way as it did previously, to thereby read “removed” relative to maintained inventory information. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the RFID tag performance is modified in some trackable way whenever the pak or some frangible component thereof is “ruptured,” such as reduced in performance for a relatively lower signal strength output, or such as having an ID that changes in response to a “tamper” indication.
In accordance with yet further aspects of certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, RFID tags may be provided preprogramed for corresponding to a particular drug or controlled substance to be stocked into a box, in order to eliminate the need for separate, individual enrollment of tags into the system. Further, per some embodiments, tagging may be color coated or otherwise visually enhanced for recognition and for human or robotic/automated handling. Increased speed of identification and handling can be of significant importance in a medical emergency setting that may be faced such as by EMS personnel.
For further exemplary embodiments, particularly for tracking methodology comprising a presently disclosed audit trail, EMS personnel may receive at the beginning of a shift receive a preloaded box or case to be mounted into their associated EMS vehicle. Once secured, an initial inventory may be taken of the contents as mounted into the vehicle. Thereafter, tracked transactions throughout a shift will eventually re reported, and a completed shift inventory will be taken relative to an initial inventory to determine cumulative usage throughout the shift for comparison with the detailed audit report of each individual withdrawal/transaction relative to the box during the course of the shift. Such augmented audit trail generation combined with electronic access control can result in improved inventory control, the generation of automated billing, improved diversion control, and in improved future planning based on determination of consumption patterns.
One presently disclosed exemplary embodiment relates to a system for combined electronic inventory data and access control. Such exemplary system preferably may comprise a closable enclosure; a plurality of respective tamper evident RFID tags, each respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of matable paired cap and container components for receiving respective consumable inventory items, to be received in such enclosure; and an electronically actuated lock system for selectively allowing locking and unlocking of such enclosure. Further, per such exemplary system, such tamper evident RFID tags preferably have a tamper evident feature associated with a mated pair of such cap and container components for providing an altered ID characteristic readable by an RFID reader once such tamper evident feature may be disturbed by separation of such mated pair of cap and container components for access to their respective consumable inventory items; and such system further may include an RFID reading system, associated with such enclosure, and adapted for determining at a selected time tamper evident RFID tags with unaltered ID characteristics received within such enclosure when closed, so as to identify corresponding respective consumable inventory items associated therewith.
Per some alternatives of the foregoing, such tamper evident feature may comprise an external loop associated with a respective tamper evident RFID tag and entrained through its associated mated pair of cap and container components to be ruptured whenever such mated pair of cap and container components may be separated for access to their respective consumable inventory items. For yet others, such altered ID characteristic thereof may comprise at least one of that such ID characteristic may include a flagged tamper bit as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, that such ID characteristic as readable by an RFID reader may be eliminated whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, and that such ID characteristic may have relatively reduced signal strength as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be at least partially ruptured.
For some variations of the foregoing, such paired cap and container components may include respective openings which may be alignable when such cap and container components may be mated so that their associated external loop pass through such respective openings. For yet others thereof, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective holes through opposing outside walls of such container.
For some other alternatives of the foregoing, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective slots through opposing outside walls of such container, so that an external loop passed through such respective holes of such cap may be introduced into such slots of such container outside walls whenever such cap may be fitted to such container. In other variations, some such systems in some instances may further include respective protruding element alignment nodes and motion limiting stops on the outside of such container and on an inside rim of such cap, to prevent direct-pull removal of such cap from such container; and respective ratcheting members on the outside of such container and on such inside rim of such cap, for respective engagement of such ratcheting members whenever such cap may be fitted to such container, to limit rotation of such cap thereafter to a single direction thereof relative to such container for removal of such cap from such container.
Yet for other some variations, each of such respective plurality of cap components may include means for supporting and holding its associated respective tamper evident RFID tag. For some such variations, such means for supporting and holding may include paired elements protruding from each respective cap for cooperating to hold its associated respective tamper evident RFID tag in place.
For other alternatives in some instances, each of such RFID tags may have a wire receiver slot thereon, and each of external loops of each of such tamper evident RFID tags each may comprise a wire that may include one end thereof directly attached to its RFID tag and one loose end thereof which can be inserted and locked into such receiver slot on such RFID tag and thereafter not removed from such slot.
For some variations, such closable enclosure may be lockable in a closed position thereof; and such RFID reading system may determine inventory of such enclosure at a plurality of times.
In some instances of such exemplary system subject matter, such plurality of times may include at least one determination later in time than another determination to establish inventory changes in such enclosure comprising inventory either of removed from or added to such enclosure during the interim between such two determinations. For some such, such electronically actuated lock system may be further adapted for maintaining an audit trail for actuation of such electronically actuated lock system and associating such audit trail with removed inventory to track chain of custody for such removed inventory; and such system may further include an integrated inventory control system in communication with such electronically actuated lock system. In some instances, such electronically actuated lock system may be further adapted for associating such audit trail with non-removed inventory to track such non-removed inventory; and such system may further include a central server communicating over a network for providing communications between such integrated inventory control system and such electronically actuated lock system. Still further, such system may further include a plurality of such closable enclosures, each having a respective electronically actuated lock system, and wherein such integrated inventory control system may be in communication with each of such closable enclosures via its respective electronically actuated lock system.
Per some alternatives, such system may further include a removable case receivable in such enclosure and having an associated non-alterable RFID tag for tracking of whether such removable case may be received within such enclosure, such removable case may be further adapted for receiving therein such consumable inventory items and their respective tamper evident RFID tags with respective tamper evident features.
For some exemplary variations, such plurality of respective tamper evident RFID tags with respective tamper evident features may be associated with respective consumable inventory items comprising controlled drugs for use on a mobile EMS vehicle. In some such instances, such tamper evident RFID tags with respective tamper evident features may be associated with respective markings readable by a human user.
For some alternatives of the foregoing, such closable enclosure may include a lockable door; and such system may further include paired sensors operatively associated with such door and such electronically actuated lock system for detection of whether such door may be open or closed, and an external power cable for providing external power to such electronically actuated lock system.
Still for further variations in some instances, such closable enclosure may include a reinforced housing with a lockable door; and such electronically actuated lock system may include an electronically movable latch and electronic access control circuit mounted within such reinforced housing, a user interface display and control panel mounted on the outside of such reinforced housing for controlling such movable latch into either of a locked or unlocked position thereof, and a corresponding stop member for preventing such enclosure door from being opened whenever such movable latch may be in such locked position thereof.
In yet other alternatives, such electronically actuated lock system may include a credential reader, a microprocessor based control circuit, and an electronic lock to allow access to such enclosure whenever acceptable credentials may be presented to such credential reader. Per some such alternatives, such microprocessor based control circuit maintains a log of activities of such electronic lock for providing access to such enclosure; and such log may include at least one of user name, credential type and ID, supervisor level, and valid access times. In other alternatives thereof, such system further may include a temperature sensor associated with such enclosure; and such microprocessor based control circuit may maintain temperature limit settings for stored inventory, and may monitor the output of such temperature sensor to set off an alarm if monitored temperatures may be outside of limit settings. Some such systems further may include an environmental sensor for monitoring of at least one of temperature, humidity, and vibrations.
For some of such systems, such RFID reading system associated with such enclosure further may include a limited profile RFID antenna within such enclosure. For others, such lockable enclosure may include an RFID antenna within such enclosure, and may include electromagnetic shielding so to block any external electromagnetic fields, so that any RFID readings may be limited to operative RFID tags and their associated contents which may be within such enclosure when such door may be closed.
Yet another presently disclosed exemplary embodiment may relate to a system for storage of consumable inventory items for use with combined electronic inventory data and access control, preferably comprising a pair of matable respective separable cap and container components, and a tamper evident RFID tag. Further preferably, for such pair of matable respective separable cap and container components, such container component may be preferably adapted for receiving a consumable inventory item, and such cap component may be preferably adapted to be selectively attached to and removed from such container component by a user, with such cap component when attached to such container component blocking access to any consumable inventory item received in such container component. For such tamper evident RFID tag, such tag preferably may have a tamper evident feature and may be associated with at least one of such matable cap and container components, for providing an altered ID characteristic readable by an RFID reader once such tamper evident feature may be disturbed by separation of such pair of cap and container components for access to a respective received consumable inventory item.
For some such exemplary embodiments, such tamper evident feature may comprise an external loop associated with such tamper evident RFID tag and entrained through its associated pair of cap and container components when mated to be ruptured whenever such mated pair of cap and container components may be separated for access to their respective received consumable inventory item. In others, such altered ID characteristic thereof may comprise at least one of that such ID characteristic may include a flagged tamper bit as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, that such ID characteristic as readable by an RFID reader may be eliminated whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, and that such ID characteristic may have relatively reduced signal strength as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be at least partially ruptured.
Per some variations of the foregoing, such paired cap and container components may include respective openings which may be alignable when such cap and container components may be mated so that their associated external loop pass through such respective openings. For some of those, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective holes through opposing outside walls of such container. In other variations, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective slots through opposing outside walls of such container, so that an external loop passed through such respective holes of such cap may be introduced into such slots of such container outside walls whenever such cap may be fitted to such container. Some of those variation may further include respective protruding element alignment nodes and motion limiting stops on the outside of such container and on an inside rim of such cap, to prevent direct-pull removal of such cap from such container; and respective ratcheting members on the outside of such container and on such inside rim of such cap, for respective engagement of such ratcheting members whenever such cap may be fitted to such container, to limit rotation of such cap thereafter to a single direction thereof relative to such container for removal of such cap from such container.
In other alternatives of the foregoing embodiment, such cap component may include means for supporting and holding such tamper evident RFID tag. Ion some such alternatives, such means for supporting and holding may include paired elements protruding from such cap for cooperating to hold such tamper evident RFID tag in place. For other alternatives, such RFID tag may have a wire receiver slot thereon, and such external loop of such tamper evident RFID tag may comprise a wire that may include one end thereof directly attached to such RFID tag and one loose end thereof which can be inserted and locked into such receiver slot on such RFID tag and thereafter not removed from such slot.
Other variations of the foregoing may further comprise a plurality of pairs of such matable respective separable cap and container components for receiving respective consumable inventory items; and a corresponding plurality of respective tamper evident RFID tags, each respectively associated with at least one of such matable cap and container components of such pairs. Some of those may further include a closable enclosure for selective placement therein by a user of at least one of such plurality of pairs of such matable respective separable cap and container components. Others may further include an electronically actuated lock system for selectively allowing locking and unlocking of such enclosure; and an RFID reading system, associated with such enclosure, and adapted for determining at a selected time tamper evident RFID tags with unaltered ID characteristics received within such enclosure when closed, so as to identify corresponding respective consumable inventory items associated therewith. For some of those, such closable enclosure may be lockable in a closed position thereof; and such RFID reading system may determine inventory of such enclosure at a plurality of times. For some of those, such plurality of times may include at least one determination later in time than another determination to establish inventory changes in such enclosure comprising inventory either of removed from or added to such enclosure during the interim between such two determinations.
For some other variations, such electronically actuated lock system may be further adapted for maintaining an audit trail for actuation of such electronically actuated lock system and associating such audit trail with removed inventory to track chain of custody for such removed inventory; and such system further may include an integrated inventory control system in communication with such electronically actuated lock system. Some of those may further include a central server communicating over a network for providing communications between such integrated inventory control system and such electronically actuated lock system. Still further, some of those may further include a plurality of such closable enclosures, each having a respective electronically actuated lock system, and wherein such integrated inventory control system may be in communication with each of such closable enclosures via its respective electronically actuated lock system.
Some exemplary such systems may further include a removable case receivable in such enclosure and having an associated non-alterable RFID tag for tracking of whether such removable case may be received within such enclosure, such removable case further adapted for receiving therein such consumable inventory items and their respective tamper evident RFID tags with respective tamper evident features.
For some exemplary systems, such plurality of respective tamper evident RFID tags with respective tamper evident features may be associated with respective consumable inventory items comprising controlled drugs for use on a mobile EMS vehicle. For some of those, such tamper evident RFID tags with respective tamper evident features may be associated with respective markings readable by a human user.
For other presently disclosed exemplary systems, such closable enclosure may include a lockable door; and such system further may include paired sensors operatively associated with such door and such electronically actuated lock system for detection of whether such door may be open or closed, and an external power cable for providing external power to such electronically actuated lock system.
For other systems, such closable enclosure may include a reinforced housing with a lockable door; and such electronically actuated lock system may include an electronically movable latch and electronic access control circuit mounted within such reinforced housing, a user interface display and control panel mounted on the outside of such reinforced housing for controlling such movable latch into either of a locked or unlocked position thereof, and a corresponding stop member for preventing such enclosure door from being opened whenever such movable latch may be in such locked position thereof.
For other systems, such electronically actuated lock system may include a credential reader, a microprocessor based control circuit, and an electronic lock to allow access to such enclosure whenever acceptable credentials may be presented to such credential reader. For some of those, such microprocessor based control circuit may maintain a log of activities of such electronic lock for providing access to such enclosure; and such log may include at least one of user name, credential type and ID, supervisor level, and valid access times. For some of those, such system further may include a temperature sensor associated with such enclosure; and such microprocessor based control circuit may maintain temperature limit settings for stored inventory, and monitors the output of such temperature sensor to set off an alarm if monitored temperatures may be outside of limit settings.
Per some exemplary systems, such system further may include an environmental sensor for monitoring of at least one of temperature, humidity, and vibrations.
For other present systems, such RFID reading system associated with such enclosure further may include a limited profile RFID antenna within such enclosure.
For others, such lockable enclosure may include an RFID antenna within such enclosure, and may include electromagnetic shielding so to block any external electromagnetic fields, so that any RFID readings may be limited to operative RFID tags and their associated contents which may be within such enclosure when such door may be closed.
In other present systems, such container may be sized for receiving a consumable inventory item. For some of those, such container may be one of an integral one-piece container and a multi-piece container. Still further, such container may comprise an at least two-piece container, with such at least two pieces thereof having respective elongated shapes with respective ends, with one set of ends forming a circular feature for engaging an associated paired cap component, and with another set of ends distal to such circular feature engaging one another for in part holding such set of distal ends together.
Yet another exemplary embodiment in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter relates to an electronic access control system for inventory data and access control for electronically controlled lock systems, comprising a communications network; a plurality of electronic locks, respectively associated with a plurality of securable enclosures, and each of such locks having respective network communications devices for respectively connecting such each electronic lock with such communications network; and a central server, connected with such plurality of electronic locks over such network, and selectively providing at least one of data updates and management for each of such electronic locks. Preferably, each of such securable enclosures may include a plurality of respective tamper evident RFID tags, each respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of matable paired cap and container components for receiving respective consumable inventory items, to be received in such enclosure, such tamper evident RFID tags having a tamper evident feature associated with a mated pair of such cap and container components for providing an altered ID characteristic readable by an RFID reader once such tamper evident feature may be disturbed by separation of such mated pair of cap and container components for access to their respective consumable inventory items; and a plurality of respective RFID reading systems, associated with each such respective enclosure, and adapted for determining at a selected time tamper evident RFID tags with unaltered ID characteristics received within such enclosure when closed, so as to identify corresponding respective consumable inventory items associated therewith.
For some such presently disclosed systems, such tamper evident feature may comprise an external loop associated with a respective tamper evident RFID tag and entrained through its associated mated pair of cap and container components to be ruptured whenever such mated pair of cap and container components may be separated for access to their respective consumable inventory items; and such altered ID characteristic thereof may comprise one of a flagged tamper bit as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, and that such ID characteristic as readable by an RFID reader may be eliminated whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured. For some of those variations, such paired cap and container components may include respective openings which may be alignable when such cap and container components may be mated so that their associated external loop pass through such respective openings. For still some others thereof, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective slots through opposing outside walls of such container, so that an external loop passed through such respective holes of such cap may be introduced into such slots of such container outside walls whenever such cap may be fitted to such container. Some may further include respective protruding element alignment nodes and motion limiting stops on the outside of such container and on an inside rim of such cap, to prevent direct-pull removal of such cap from such container; and respective ratcheting members on the outside of such container and on such inside rim of such cap, for respective engagement of such ratcheting members whenever such cap may be fitted to such container, to limit rotation of such cap thereafter to a single direction thereof relative to such container for removal of such cap from such container.
For some variations of such presently disclosed systems, each of such respective plurality of cap components may include paired elements protruding from each respective cap for cooperating to hold its associated respective tamper evident RFID tag in place. For others, each of such RFID tags may have a wire receiver slot thereon, and each of such external loops of each of such tamper evident RFID tags each may comprise a wire that may include one end thereof directly attached to its RFID tag and one loose end thereof which can be inserted and locked into such receiver slot on such RFID tag and thereafter not removed from such slot.
It is to be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure relates to both apparatuses and to corresponding and/or associated methodologies.
Accordingly, yet another exemplary embodiment of presently disclosed subject matter may relate to methodology for combined electronic inventory data and access control, comprising providing a closable enclosure with an electronically actuated lock system for selectively allowing locking and unlocking of such enclosure; providing a plurality of respective tamper evident RFID tags, each respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of matable paired cap and container components for receiving respective consumable inventory items, to be received in such enclosure, such tamper evident RFID tags having a tamper evident feature associated with a mated pair of such cap and container components for providing an altered ID characteristic readable by an RFID reader once such tamper evident feature may be disturbed by separation of such mated pair of cap and container components for access to their respective consumable inventory items; associating an RFID reading system with such enclosure; and determining with such RFID reading system at a selected time tamper evident RFID tags with unaltered ID characteristics received within such enclosure when closed, so as to identify corresponding respective consumable inventory items associated therewith.
In some variations thereof, such tamper evident feature may comprise an external loop associated with a respective tamper evident RFID tag and entrained through its associated mated pair of cap and container components to be ruptured whenever such mated pair of cap and container components may be separated for access to their respective consumable inventory items. For others, such altered ID characteristic thereof may comprise at least one of that such ID characteristic may include a flagged tamper bit as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, that such ID characteristic as readable by an RFID reader may be eliminated whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, and that such ID characteristic may have relatively reduced signal strength as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be at least partially ruptured.
For other variations of the foregoing exemplary methodology, such paired cap and container components may include respective openings which may be aligned when such cap and container components may be mated and their associated external loop may be passed through such respective openings. For some such variations, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective holes through opposing outside walls of such container. For others, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective slots through opposing outside walls of such container, and such methodology may include passing an external loop through such respective holes of such cap and introducing such loop into such slots of such container outside walls whenever such cap may be fitted to such container. Some such variations may further include respective protruding element alignment nodes and motion limiting stops on the outside of such container and on an inside rim of such cap, to prevent direct-pull removal of such cap from such container; and respective ratcheting members on the outside of such container and on such inside rim of such cap, for respective engagement of such ratcheting members whenever such cap may be fitted to such container, to limit rotation of such cap thereafter to a single direction thereof relative to such container for removal of such cap from such container.
Yet an additional variation of the foregoing may further include supporting and holding an associated respective tamper evident RFID tag on each of such respective plurality of cap components. For some of those variations, such supporting and holding may include providing paired elements protruding from each respective cap for cooperating to hold its associated respective tamper evident RFID tag in place.
For yet other alternatives, each of such RFID tags may have a wire receiver slot thereon, and each of the external loops of each of such tamper evident RFID tags each may comprise a wire that may include one end thereof directly attached to its RFID tag and one loose end thereof, and such methodology further may include inserting such loose end and locking it into the receiver slot on such RFID tag so that such loose end may be thereafter not removed from such slot.
For other presently disclosed alternatives, present methodology may further include determining at a plurality of times inventory of such enclosure using such RFID reading system. For some of those alternatives, such plurality of times may include at least one determination later in time than another determination to establish inventory changes in such enclosure may comprise inventory either of removed from or added to such enclosure during the interim between such two determinations. For some of those, such electronically actuated lock system may be further adapted for maintaining an audit trail for actuation of such electronically actuated lock system and associating such audit trail with removed inventory to track chain of custody for such removed inventory.
Yet other alternative presently disclosed methodology embodiments may further include providing a removable case receivable in such enclosure and having an associated RFID tag for tracking of whether such removable case may be received within such enclosure, such removable case further adapted for receiving therein such consumable inventory items and their respective frangible RFID tags. For some of those, such RFID reading system may be further adapted for determining whether such removable case with its associated non-frangible RFID tag may be received within such enclosure when closed.
In still other alternatives, presently disclosed methodology may further include providing such electronically actuated lock system with a credential reader, a microprocessor based control circuit, and an electronic lock to allow access to such enclosure whenever acceptable credentials may be presented to such credential reader, and wherein such microprocessor based control circuit maintains a log of activities of such electronic lock for providing access to such enclosure. In others, presently disclosed methodology may further include providing such lockable enclosure may include an RFID antenna within such enclosure; and providing such lockable enclosure with electromagnetic shielding so to block any external electromagnetic fields, so that any RFID readings may be limited to RFID tags and their associated contents which may be within such enclosure when such door may be closed. Some embodiments may include taking such RFID readings every time such door is closed. For yet others, presently disclosed methodology may further include associating respective visual markings with such respective consumable inventory items to be read by a human user for identifying particular inventory items stocked in such enclosure.
Yet another exemplary embodiment of presently disclosed methodology may relate to methodology for an electronic access control system for inventory data and access control for electronically controlled lock systems, comprising providing a communications network; providing a plurality of electronic locks, each of such locks having respective network communications devices for respectively connecting such each electronic lock with such communications network; respectively associating such plurality of locks with a plurality of securable enclosures; providing each of such securable enclosures with a plurality of respective tamper evident RFID tags, each respectively associated with a corresponding plurality of matable paired cap and container components for receiving respective consumable inventory items, to be received in such enclosure, such tamper evident RFID tags having a tamper evident feature associated with a mated pair of such cap and container components for providing an altered ID characteristic readable by an RFID reader once such tamper evident feature may be disturbed by separation of such mated pair of cap and container components for access to their respective consumable inventory items; providing each of such securable enclosures a plurality of respective RFID reading systems, associated with each such respective enclosure, and adapted for determining at a selected time tamper evident RFID tags with either of altered or unaltered ID characteristics received within such enclosure when closed, so as to identify corresponding respective consumable inventory items associated therewith; using such RFID reading systems, selectively establishing data at such respective enclosures for identifying corresponding respective consumable inventory items associated therewith; providing a central server connected with such plurality of electronic locks over such network; and selectively providing at least one of data updates and data management for each of such electronic locks, conducted by such central server over such network.
For some such exemplary embodiments, such tamper evident feature may comprise an external loop associated with a respective tamper evident RFID tag and entrained through its associated mated pair of cap and container components to be ruptured whenever such mated pair of cap and container components may be separated for access to their respective consumable inventory items; and such altered ID characteristic thereof may comprise one of a flagged tamper bit as readable by an RFID reader whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured, and that such ID characteristic as readable by an RFID reader may be eliminated whenever such RFID tag external loop may be ruptured. For some of those, such paired cap and container components may include respective openings which may alienable when such cap and container components may be rated so that their associated external loop pass through such respective openings. For still others thereof, such openings may comprise a pair of respective holes through such cap and a pair of respective slots through opposing outside walls of such container, so that an external loop passed through such respective holes of such cap may be introduced into such slots of such container outside walls whenever such cap may be fitted to such container. Yet others thereof may further include respective protruding element alignment nodes and motion limiting stops on the outside of such container and on an inside rim of such cap, to prevent direct-pull removal of such cap from such container; and respective ratcheting members on the outside of such container and on such inside rim of such cap, for respective engagement of such ratcheting members whenever such cap may be fitted to such container, to limit rotation of such cap thereafter to a single direction thereof relative to such container for removal of such cap from such container.
For some other variations of the foregoing, each of such respective plurality of cap components may include paired elements protruding from each respective cap for cooperating to hold its associated respective tamper evident RFID tag in place.
For yet other variations thereof, each of such RFID tags may have a wire receiver slot thereon, and each of the external loops of each of such tamper evident RFID tags each may comprise a wire that may include one end thereof directly attached to its RFID tag and one loose end thereof which can be inserted and locked into the receiver slot on such RFID tag and thereafter not removed from such slot.
Additional objects and advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter are set forth in, or will be apparent to, those of ordinary skill in the art from the detailed description herein. Also, it should be further appreciated that modifications and variations to the specifically illustrated, referred and discussed features, elements, and steps hereof may be practiced in various embodiments and uses of the presently disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter. Variations may include, but are not limited to, substitution of equivalent means, features, or steps for those illustrated, referenced, or discussed, and the functional, operational, or positional reversal of various parts, features, steps, or the like.
Still further, it is to be understood that different embodiments, as well as different presently preferred embodiments, of the presently disclosed subject matter may include various combinations or configurations of presently disclosed features, steps, or elements, or their equivalents (including combinations of features, parts, or steps or configurations thereof not expressly shown in the figures or stated in the detailed description of such figures).
Additional embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, not necessarily expressed in the summarized section, may include and incorporate various combinations of aspects of features, components, or steps referenced in the summarized objects above, and/or other features, components, or steps as otherwise discussed in this application. Those of ordinary skill in the art will better appreciate the features and aspects of such embodiments, and others, upon review of the remainder of the specification.
A full and enabling disclosure of the presently disclosed subject matter, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:
Repeat use of reference characters throughout the present specification and appended drawings is intended to represent same or analogous features, elements, or steps of the presently disclosed subject matter.
As discussed in the Summary of the Subject Matter section, the presently disclosed subject matter is concerned with combined electronic inventory data and access control for electronically controlled lock systems.
Selected combinations of aspects of the disclosed technology correspond to a plurality of different embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. It should be noted that each of the exemplary embodiments presented and discussed herein should not insinuate limitations of the presently disclosed subject matter. Features or steps illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used in combination with aspects of another embodiment to yield yet further embodiments. Additionally, certain features may be interchanged with similar devices or features not expressly mentioned which perform the same or similar function.
It should be specifically noted that while the present disclosure generally describes the lock disclosed herein as a retrofittable lock, such terminology should not be taken as a limitation of the presently disclosed subject matter in any way as the presently disclosed lock may, indeed, be provided as original equipment.
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to inventory data and access control, integrated into electronically controlled lock systems. Such electronically controlled lock systems may include one or more electronic locks used to provide secure storage of various items within a cabinet or drawer. An exemplary electronic lock may include a motorized latch and an electronic access control circuit mounted within a reinforced housing and provided as either a retrofittable lock or as original equipment for a cabinet or enclosure. User interfaces may be provided through an LCD display and control panel mounted on the face of the housing, or otherwise.
Additionally, various optional transducers, such as a temperature transducer may be provided for installation within some cabinets or enclosures where an environmental condition to be monitored is of importance. A motorized latch may engage a corresponding hole, or strike, or other stop member, for preventing the cabinet door from being opened.
It is to be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the presently disclosed subject matter equally encompasses other optional features, different than just an optional temperature transducer. For example, one or more optional devices may be utilized with the presently disclosed subject matter to detect a variety of environmental conditions, or other conditions. For example, either or both of temperature and humidity may be detected relative to a room or a piece of equipment, of vibrations levels or other characteristics of such room/equipment may be monitored.
Reference will be made in detail to the various exemplary embodiments of an electronic lock in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter. Referring to the drawings,
Further, magnetic sensors 42 and 44, or other forms of sensors, may be mounted in conjunction with door 14, to detect its open or closed condition, which may be communicated to lock 16 such as through wiring as illustrated (in
As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the complete disclosure herewith, lock 16 amounts to a motorized or controllably driven latch, which may make use of such as a motor or solenoid (not shown) or other type of prime mover for operating extendable member 34. In some exemplary embodiments, a permanent magnet DC motor may be used; however, various types of motors can be employed. Also, when used, a motor may be provided with a gear train that moves a mechanism which in turn retracts or extends element 34.
As discussed in conjunction with the complete disclosure herewith, cabinet 12 when opened allows access to a stored box or storage unit 32. Such removable box 32 may itself have an openable lid 46, which when opened allows access to stored medicinal dosages 48. Such dosages may comprise individual pills, capsules, or vials of drugs to be injected, as well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. As also shown in
As shown, cabinet 12 may include openings 50 for mounting of cabinet 12 and/or for the passage of wiring (generally 52) between the interior and exterior of cabinet 12. Such wiring 52 may extend around within the cabinet 12 interior to emerge (wiring 40) adjacent to lock 16 to provide vehicle power for lock 16 in accordance with presently disclosed subject matter, as otherwise discussed herein.
Because RFID technology can be fairly robust, in some instances, it's possible that a given form of RFID tag selected for use in a particular implementation may tend to have reduced level outputs rather than to stop working altogether when “ruptured” or damaged as individual dosages are accessed. In such an implementation, the presently disclosed subject matter is applicable to indicate removed dosages by still using the comparative tracking methodology disclosed herewith. However, rather than tracking for just, in effect, a “zero” result while checking for the presence of a particular RFID tag, the comparison is to determine a change in the relative signal strength (RSSI) associated with such given tag. A particular implementation in such embodiment would involve determining a desired threshold level of reduction in RSSI to indicate that an adequate amount of physical changes (“damage”) to the RFID tag had occurred, such that it signals a dosage has been accessed. Such determination in accordance with presently disclosed methodology would involve ensuring that a sufficiently lowered RSSI threshold were selected for such assurance, while still distinguishing from relatively smaller changes in RSSI which may occur simply, for example, from a given RFID tag being situated in a relatively slightly harder to read location.
Another alternative embodiment and methodology in accordance with presently disclosed subject matter involves using an RFID tag that has a tamper evident bit.
In particular RFID tag 51 may have a trace or external loop of wire (generally 53), which when broken, causes a “tamper” bit to be set in the RFID tag 51. That means that the RFID tag 51 puts out a changed ID after loop 53 is broken than before loop 53 is broken. By using the same comparative tracking methodology of the presently disclosed subject matter, such change in ID is detected and used to determine that a previously enclosed individual dosage has been accessed.
A variety of techniques may be used, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, to incorporate such an RFID tag 51 into a physical arrangement to result in breaking of loop 53 whenever the dosage is accessed. For example, with reference to
One exemplary such tag is a commercially available product from NXP Semiconductors, referenced as the UCODE G2iM series transponder integrated circuits (IC's), including a so-called “tag tamper alarm.” The chip bits of such an exemplary device are shown below in Table 1, indicating that a single bit in provided, indicative of whether the associated loop 53 is intact or broken.
To facilitate human interaction, such RFID tags may be associated with color coordinated containers so that particular colors are associated with particular corresponding drugs and/or dosages. In the instance of using an exemplary RFID tag embodiment such as exemplary tag 51, the user may identify a particular color in order to select a desired drug and/or dosage, while the tracking technology presently disclosed will detect breaking of the associated wire or loop 53 in order to automatically determine and track (record) which dosage has been accessed. In the context of this embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter, an “unruptured” RFID tag would mean that the wire or loop 53 has not been broken, and the ID characteristic from such unruptured RFID tag would show that a tamper bit or indicator thereof has not been set or flagged (and thus remains at “0”).
More generally speaking, as various embodiments of the presently disclosed technology are utilized, all embodiments commonly make comparative tracking assessments, so that a tag no longer seen, or a tag seen at an RSSI level below a determined threshold, or a tag seen with a tamper evident indication, all result in detection that a corresponding protected/enclosed dosage was accessed. Thus, a “frangible” RFID tag as referenced by the presently disclosed subject matter is intended to refer to tags which themselves have frangible components, such as the body thereof, and/or have an associated external wire or loop or other feature thereof, the rupture of which frangible component causes a change or alteration to the ID characteristics of such RFID tag. Such changes can be elimination altogether of the ID characteristic, or a relatively reduced signal strength thereof, or setting or flagging of a tamper evident bit.
Extending member 34 is operated under the control of a microprocessor based circuit located within lock main housing 18. In accordance with the illustrated exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter, electronic lock 16 receives input from a user attempting to gain access to the cabinet via the exemplary keypad 20 shown on the face of housing 18. It should be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that a variety of different types of access control credentials may be used instead of or in addition to such keypad. Such credentials may include, but are not limited to, proximity cards, magnetic stripe cards, smart cards, RF fobs, IR fobs, and Dallas Semiconductor i-Buttons, as well as a plethora of biometric type access control technologies available to industry.
When electronic lock 16 receives data, in an exemplary case a personal identification number (PIN) from a user, it processes the PIN and determines the validity of the code. Typically, the electronic lock will have a number of available valid codes. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, anywhere from 250 to 1000 valid codes may be provided, or even higher numbers for some embodiments, such as up to 5000 or higher. It should be appreciated, however, that such number is a design limitation of particular installations, and not a particular limitation of broader aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. Electronic lock 16 is configured to compare an entered PIN to its list of pre-programmed valid codes. If the code is determined to be valid, access is granted. Lock 16 can be programmed manually or through a personal computer (PC) based program.
On the underside of a top surface 62 of such enclosure, an antenna generally 64 may be mounted in accordance with presently disclosed subject matter. Generally, it is preferable that such an antenna be operative as a UHF RFID antenna and suitable for an RFID sensing system, within the subject enclosure. One example of a useful antenna for such a system is available from “Times-7” (Cupertino, Calif.). One such model is the Times-7 Model A5010 Circular Polarized Antenna, which provides an ultra-low profile design available in a compact 250 mm/10 inch square footprint. As shown, such model also accommodates a flush wall mounting on upper interior surface 62.
Antenna 64 may be connected to wiring, such as wiring 66 which passes through opening 56, as illustrated by exemplary
RAIN RFID technology is derived from an alliance which seeks universal adoption of UHF RFID technology, similar to the way other wireless technology organizations have advanced such as WiFi and Bluetooth technologies. Specifically, RAIN uses a GS1 UHF Gen2 protocol which ISO/IEC has standardized as 18000-63. The term RAIN is an acronym derived from RAdio frequency IdentificatioN. It is intended in part as a reference to the link between UHF RFID and the cloud, where RFID-based data can be stored, managed and shared via the Internet connection 84. As a result, a RAIN RFID solution allows use of a reader to read and write a tagged item, manage data, and respond.
While UHF RFID is specifically discussed in the presently disclosed subject matter, such subject matter equally may encompass use of HF RFID, such that the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any specific frequency range of use or practice, either now or later existing.
In this instance, the associated enclosure 12 can be modified, as needed, to create the formation of a so-called “Faraday Cage” effect, whereby the enclosure 12 is used to block any external electromagnetic fields, so that any RFID readings are strictly limited to contents (RFID tags) which are within the enclosure 12 once its door is closed. A Faraday shield may be formed by a continuous covering of conductive material or by a mesh of such materials. One shielding aspect for some embodiments herewith may include the use of conductive gasketing around the perimenter of door 14. The resulting shield phenomenon protects the reading antenna 64 from external radio frequency interference (RFI), since the enclosure 12 conducts current around the outside of the enclosed space with none passing through the interior 60.
In addition to monitoring the contents (medicinal dosages) of an enclosure (or narcotics case), the location of such narcotics case itself can be tracked, the location of the EMS vehicle or ambulance bearing such narcotics case and its contents may be tracked, and associated EMS personnel may be tracked, all as part of the presently disclosed subject matter. The result is that a complete record of custody of the case and contents may be obtained. Such record covers from a narcotics case morning or start-of-shift removal from a station to through the day, and to return to station.
As should be further understood from the complete disclosure herewith, such augmented audit trail generation combined with electronic access control can result in improved inventory control, the generation of automated billing, improved diversion control, and in improved future planning based on determination of consumption patterns. That is because report summaries can provide information on a variety of information, such as case location at all times (using RFID and/or other techniques for tracking the narcotics case), case content changes by time, and narcotics box access.
One audit trail exemplary method may involve the steps of:
Variations to such methodology may be practiced. For example, the supervisor may use an RFID scanning approach to identify a narcotics case after it has been preloaded for a shift by the supervisor, to confirm the narcotics case and its contents at the start of a shift. Similarly, the supervisor can use an RFID scanning approach to identify a narcotics case and its contents after it has been returned at the end of a shift.
Also, the access control system may provide a data-logging feature. That is, users will have the ability to view and download various data associated with the electronic lock, including “audit trail” data and possibly other recorded data. Such history can be viewed by pressing a designated button, such as an “up” button, on the keypad, which will display selected data; or by pressing a “down” button on the keypad, which will display other selected data. Such data can be logged in predetermined increments with the size of the increment being set by the system administrator or supervisor. In addition, the system is provided with the ability to connect a personal computer (PC) and download all the data related to a given enclosure. Automation of the inventory data features of the presently disclosed subject matter may be achieved, for example, by conducting an RFID inventory read triggered by door 14 opening and closing as sensed by magnetic switch or sensors 42, 44. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the resulting “audit trail” or inventory data and related may be processed for desired information. For example, by knowing who accessed a given narcotics box when it was opened and the case removed, and knowing who accessed the narcotics box when the case was returned, and knowing the difference in the contents of the returned box versus the removed box, it may be logically determined what user (for example, EMS personnel) took what items (dosages 48) and when.
Additionally, the system is provided with the ability to connect individual electronic locks over a network to a central server. The network connections may be either hardwired or wireless, such as through an RF interface or through an 802.11 WiFi wireless network. Data and programming associated with individual locks and the access control system may be remotely downloaded/uploaded from or to the central server through the network. As used herein, a network may include a dial-in network, a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), public switched telephone network (PSTN), the Internet, intranet or other type(s) of networks, now or later existing, including hybrid and/or meshed networks. A network may include any number and/or combination of hard-wired, wireless, or other communication links.
In accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter, system settings can be made through a control panel on the front of the system, such as through a PC based access control system that is either directly connected to the lock or remotely connected to the lock over a network.
Power source 110 is operatively connected to both the controller 120 and to the various other components of the electronic lock. The controller 120 may have the capability to direct the power supply 110 to selectively provide power to the various components of the electronic lock 100 or to remove power from the various components of the electronic lock 100. For instance, the controller 120 may be configured to control when the communications device or module 170 receives power from the power supply 110 so that the controller 120 may selectively power on or power off the communications module 170 in accordance with certain aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, as will be discussed in detail below with reference to
Controller 120 is the main processing unit of electronic lock 100. Controller 120 may include a memory 122, microprocessor 124, random access memory 126, and input/output device 128, as shown in
Controller 120 may be programmed with various instructions to perform various functions in accordance with aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. For instance, controller 120 may include one or more computing devices that are adapted to provide desired functionality by accessing software instructions rendered in a computer-readable form. When software is used, any suitable programming, scripting, or other type of language or combinations of languages may be used to implement the teachings contained herein. However, software need not be used exclusively, or at all. For example, some embodiments of the methods and systems set forth herein may also be implemented by hard-wired logic or other circuitry, including, but not limited to, application-specific circuits. Of course, combinations of computer-executed software and hard-wired logic or other circuitry may be suitable, as well. In a typical implementation, the controller could use a microcontroller chip attached to a memory device as well as other hardware to assist with various functions. The microcontroller could execute a special-purpose program produced using any programming language or combination of languages as may be suitable for the purpose, and as may exist or be later developed. While presently disclosed subject matter lends itself to the use of separate chips for the CPU, memory, and other interface logic, the design would be just as applicable if some or all of those functions were combined into one or more larger chips.
Electronic lock 100 may include a memory 130 connected to the controller 120. Memory 130 may be used to store various types of data associated with electronic lock 100 and/or an electronic access control system. For instance, memory 130 may be used to store user data, such as, user name, credential type and ID, supervisor level, and valid access times; lock data, such as lock name, access hardware (e.g. keypad or hardware), and open time; relational data detailing which users can access or open which electronic locks; and audit trail data and/or inventory data.
Electronic lock 100 may include a latch mechanism 140 that is operatively connected to controller 120. Latch mechanism 140 may be similar to the electronic latch assembly discussed above or may be any other latch mechanism configured to secure a cabinet or enclosure. In a preferred exemplary embodiment, whenever latch mechanism 140 receives a command from controller 120, the latch assembly unlocks the cabinet or enclosure for which the electronic latch 100 is used to provide secure storage.
The subject embodiment of a present electronic lock may further include a visual display 150 and user interface 160. Such visual display 150 and user interface 160 allow for a user to input and/or manipulate data or other information into the lock and to visually inspect certain settings, features, and/or data or other information associated with the lock. The visual display 150 and user interface 160 may be similar to the user interface and visual display depicted in
Still referring to
At step 220, network identification information is provided to the communications module. Such network identification information must be provided to the communications module to allow the communications module to connect to and communicate over the network. Such information may include, for example, the SSID of the 802.11 WiFi network, the appropriate encryption pass keys to enable access to the WiFi network, and/or the IP address of the central server. Once the network identification information has been provided to the communications module, the communications module can connect the electronic lock to the network, as shown at step 230. The electronic lock can then communicate with a central server or other remote device over the network and can receive and transmit data over the network.
At step 240, the electronic lock checks for updates from the central server. If updates are available, then the electronic lock downloads such updates and stores them in memory as shown at step 250. For instance, the electronic lock may download new relational data which identifies which users can access the cabinet or enclosure secured by the electronic lock. At step 260, the electronic lock uploads data, such as audit trail data or inventory information to the central server. In such manner, audit trail data, inventory data, and other data stored at the individual locks may be updated to a central location periodically over the network without a supervisor having to visit each individual lock in the field.
At step 270, the communications module of the electronic lock may be powered off to conserve power supply resources. The electronic lock may be programmed to power off the communications module after a predetermined time interval after the communications module has been powered on. In addition, the electronic lock may be programmed to power off the communications module once all updates have been downloaded from the central server and once all lock data, such as audit trail data and inventory data, have been uploaded to the central server.
The presently disclosed subject matter allows for the interfacing of many electronic locks to a central server over an 802.11 WiFi wireless network while preserving limited power supply resources available with electronic locks. For facilities already have existing 802.11 WiFi wireless networks, the presently disclosed subject matter facilitates the implementation of an electronic access control systems using existing infrastructure. The networked connection of electronic locks to a central server allows for the updating of many electronic locks simultaneously and facilitates the tracking of lock data such as audit trial data and inventory data from a central location, providing significant advantages.
By connecting a plurality of electronic locks over a network, a supervisor or other user can then update electronic access control data used by the locks in one of two ways. The supervisor or other user can provide updates to the electronic lock at the individual lock, or the supervisor or other user can provide the updates into a central server, which then communicates each of those updates to the individual electronic locks.
An access control system capable of updating multiple electronic locks simultaneously, such as over a WiFi network or other network, may generate database control problems. Low end database control systems utilizing, for example, Microsoft Access, lose significant reliability if multiple database manipulations occur simultaneously. In order to accomplish multiple reliable database manipulations simultaneously, a more sophisticated database management system may be required. However, using such a sophisticated database management system creates difficulties in implementation, as microprocessors in electronic locks that can communicate with these databases are expensive. Moreover, such microprocessors do not lend themselves to low energy consumption.
Another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter provides for efficient data exchange between the plurality of electronic locks and the central server without having to integrate expensive processing capability into the individual electronic locks. The methodology and apparatus according to such exemplary aspect of certain embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter shifts the computing horsepower from the small processors and controllers available on an electronic lock to the more significant computing resources available at a central server. With reference to
At step 414, exemplary present method 400 compares the LOCKIS data structure to the LOCKWAS data structure already stored at the central server. The LOCKWAS data structure includes data and/or information about the state of data stored in the memory of the electronic lock the last time the electronic lock was connected to the central server 310 (
At step 420, the central server generates the PCIS data structure. The PCIS data structure contains data and/or information about the current state of data stored at the central server. For example, the PCIS data structure includes update information input into the central server by a supervisor or user. At step 425, the method 400 compares the PCIS data structure to the PCWAS data structure. The PCWAS data structure includes data and/or information about the state of data stored in the memory of the central server the last time the electronic lock was connected to the central server 310 (
UPDATEIS data structure is a temporary data structure created by the central server that includes differences between the PCIS and PCWAS data structures and the LOCKIS and LOCKWAS data structures. At step 440, the central server merges such temporary UPDATEIS data structure into the lock memory image that reflects updates input by a user or supervisor at the central server. At step 445, the central server uses such UPDATEIS data structure to generate a new PCWAS data structure that reflects updates input by a user or supervisor at the electronic lock. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from the flowcharts herewith that additional features and functionality exist, even though not described herein in detail. For example, in some instances the comparison of differences between the PCIS and PCWAS data structures and the LOCKIS and LOCKWAS data structures will yield different changes (for example, 60 seconds in the former instance, and 30 seconds in the latter instance). In such events, typically there will be an inherently dominate feature which will prevail (such as the PC in the example above).
At step 450, the central server generates a new LOCKWAS data structure. The central server then updates the lock memory from the lock memory image as shown at step 460. As illustrated in
An installation such as represented by
With reference to
In electronic access control system 500, a plurality of electronic locks 510 are used to secure multiple stacks of boxes, including Stack or Group A, Stack or Group B, and Stack or Group C. Each of the groups may have one or more electronic locks, representative of an associated narcotics box for which an individual electronic lock 510 is required or desired. It is to be understood from the disclosure herewith that the terminology a plurality of securable enclosures may mean a group comprising respective cabinets (or other forms of enclosures), respective drawers, doors, or similar in one or more cabinets, or respective parts or subcomponents of various mixtures of the foregoing. For instance, Group A is illustrated as having two electronic locks 510. Such two electronic locks 510 may be for separate narcotics boxes or other enclosures in Group A. Similarly, Group C is illustrated as having three electronic locks 510. Such three electronic locks 510 may be for separate narcotics boxes or other enclosures within Group C. The third electronic lock 510 of Group C is illustrated in dashed line to signify that any number of electronic locks 510 may be associated with a single group.
As discussed above, each of the electronic locks 510 of the electronic access control system 500 uses and creates data that may be managed by the access control system. For example, plural narcotics boxes all having a particular predetermined profile as to their initial contents, may be readied as a group in Group A, while other content-profiles may be prepared in association with Group B or Group C
Access control systems may allow manipulation and control of the access control data at the actual electronic lock 510 itself through, for instance, user interface 160 shown in
As shown in
Network 530 may be any hardwired or wireless network or combinations thereof for connecting the plurality of electronic locks 510 to central server 520. For example, a network can comprise a dial-in network, a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), public switched telephone network (PSTN), the Internet, intranet or other type(s) of networks. A network may comprise any number and/or combination of hard-wired, wireless, or other communication links.
In one embodiment, the plurality of electronic locks 510 are connected to central server 520 through an 802.11 WiFi network interface. Enabling wireless communication over an 802.11 WiFi network has many advantages, including, for example, facilitating the exchange of data between a central server and an electronic lock that is used to secure a mobile cabinet or enclosure that would be difficult to connect to a hard wired network.
Electronic locks 510 may interface with network 530, for example, through communications module 170 shown in
Existing communication modules for communication over 802.11 WiFi networks include a “sleep mode” during which the communication module draws less power from the power source to preserve power supply resources. The communication module, while in “sleep mode” listens for a wake up signal communicated over the WiFi network. The communications module wakes up and returns to full power upon hearing of the wake up signal. After data has been communicated over the network, the communication module may return to a “sleep mode” to preserve power supply resources. Such “sleep mode” feature as currently available is still generally commercially undesirable for electronic lock systems because the communications module, while in “sleep mode,” still draws significant power from the power supply source. Therefore, while sleep modes may be helpful under some present or future circumstances, a design which does not require them essentially has more present versatility.
One aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter preserves power supply resources while enabling communication over an 802.11 WiFi network. According to such aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, an electronic lock includes a controller that is capable of completely powering off a communication module for enabling communications over an 802.11 WiFi network. For instance, as shown in
Once the 802.11 WiFi communications module has been powered off, it can no longer listen for a wake-up signal which triggers the communications module to power back on and to receive and transmit data over the network. To address such issue, one aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter for particular embodiments includes programming the electronic lock to periodically power on the 802.11 WiFi communications module at predetermined time intervals to enable communication over the network. For instance, the electronic lock may be programmed to power on the communications module once a day, once a week, once a month, or after any other time interval. In addition, the electronic lock may include a manual button or other interface that enables a user to manually power on the communications module. After the communications module has been powered on, the electronic lock can receive and transmit data over the network until the communications module powers back down.
One example of specifications for a representative embodiment is set forth in the following Table 2. Such Table 2 incorporates a variety of scenarios which may be encountered, to show how operation of a particular embodiment of presently disclosed subject matter may be conducted. Such operational features are not specifically limited to a given presently disclosed embodiment. In other words, such operative features may be utilized in various embodiments of the presently disclosed technology, with all such embodiments commonly making comparative tracking assessments, so that a tag no longer seen, or a tag seen at an RSSI level below a determined threshold, or a tag seen with a tamper evident indication, all result in detection that a corresponding protected/enclosed dosage was accessed. An exemplary listing of such drugs/dosages is included in the Table 2 subject matter disclosure herewith.
Variations may be practiced in different embodiments of presently disclosed subject matter. For example, as noted per the operational example of Table 2 herewith, an “incident” system or feature may be included. Such a feature, when included in a given embodiment, will allow a report to be generated regarding all of the particulars regarding a given incident, regardless of whether the overall system is turned on or off, per the included specifications of Table 2. Such particulars may include, for example, associated incident date and EMS crew data (when the embodiment involves an EMS crew).
Another alternative feature which may be practiced in some embodiments is to provide the enclosure or storage box with internal walls which are not perfectly parallel. By being intentionally off-parallel, the RF waves do not compound in a way that can otherwise produce “ringing,” which results in better performance for locating or tracking/detecting tags within the case.
Further, embodiments may be practiced for which scanning for contents present is only conducted whenever the system detects that the door is closed. For example, door switch 44 may be monitored to ensure the door is closed prior to any inventory tracking step. Using such methodology helps to ensure that there are no misreads due to any stray RFID tags which may be in the area but not in the case.
Part of the presently disclosed subject matter relates to technology for the addition and/incorporation of tamper evident tags, which is intended to refer to an RFID tag that will report a different ID as a function of whether or not it has been tampered with. One form of tag particularly useful for incorporation into presently disclosed embodiments makes use of a wire loop that extends out of the tag and snaps back into the housing. The tag will send a signal through the wire and, if the wire is electrically intact, will report that it is not tampered with. If the wire is broken, the tag will report that it has been tampered with.
One example of a known (prior art) RFID security seal tag that may be practiced with presently disclosed subject matter is represented by
Similarly,
As shown,
Exemplary dimensions are shown on such drawings and others, including dimensions of a potential tag 600, so that cooperation of the length of the wire 604 and body of tag 600 together with the physical dimensions of the container/cap of the presently disclosed embodiment may yield in combination a secured container (until the wire 604 is broken). Nonetheless, it is to be understood that variations may be practiced, including for example as needed to accommodate a tag device having different dimensions than that as shown by example in
With reference to
With reference to
As shown,
A pair of sets of ratchet teeth 914 and 916 are formed on opposite sides of the outside diameter of container 900, 180 degrees from each other. As shown in
Also, a set of pairs of protruding elements 924 and 926 also are formed on the outside diameter of the cylinder of container 900, again 180 degrees from each respective set. As further discussed herein, members 924 form stops for preventing direct-pull removal of a cap from container 900, while members 926 form alignment nodes, to assist with initial proper placement of such cap onto container 900.
Similar to the “press fit” style embodiment, the “ratchet” style embodiment also has a pair of 180 degree opposing openings 930 and 932 through which a tag wire may be passed. Also, protruding paired elements 934/936 and 938/940 cooperate to hold the tag body in place, as previously discussed. Ratchet elements 942 and 944 are positioned 180 degrees from each other around component 928, and include respective plural individual ratchet teeth.
Component 928 includes two more sets of paired elements positioned 180 degrees around the component which contribute to alignment and securement aspects of the container/cap combination. Specifically, extending features 946 and 948 contribute to securement by blocking the cap from being removed from the container, once they are properly positioned by being rotated into position, as discussed otherwise herein. Extending members 950 and 952 form a slot therebetween for guiding insertion of the cap onto the container. A corresponding set of four elements appear 180 degrees across component 928, as seen in part with elements 954 and 956 in
Similar to the “press fit” style embodiment, the “ratchet” style embodiment also has a channel generally 960 through which a tag wire may be passed, and a non-square rectangular guide member generally 962 for proper orientation of component 958 with outer cap piece generally 928.
Both the “press fit” and “ratchet” style embodiments have various features in common. For example, a tamper evident RFID tag is installed onto the top of the cap of the container. Each of such designs has the wire from the RFID tag routed from the tag through the cap and the container and back to the tag where it is locked into the tag and completes the electrical circuit. The way that the wire is routed is such that the wire must be broken to remove the cap from the container and access the narcotic.
As with various facets of engineered products, there are trade-offs and respective advantages from use of each of the respective embodiments.
The “press fit” design is the simpler of the two designs but requires final tamper evident wire installation by the user. The cap can be provided to a user with the RFID tag installed but the tamper evident wire not yet connected back to the RFID tag. The user places the narcotic into the container that they wish to secure. The cap will then be placed onto the container. As otherwise discussed herein, the press fit container has a complete (that is, not open to the top) hole on the side. There is a complementary hole on the opposite side. Once the user places the cap onto the container, the wire must be threaded through the cap, the container, the inside of the cap, the other side of the container, the other side of the cap, and outside to mate up with the receptacle on the RFID tag. The loose end of the wire is then locked into the tag and cannot be removed once inserted. After the wire is installed properly, there is no way to remove the cap without breaking this wire, because the wire has been woven through the cap and the container. The exemplary dimensions work with a particular length of wire to ensure a sufficiently tight fit.
When the in-tact container/RFID tag is placed into the RFID narcotics box, the system will read this tag (and therefore the narcotic) as being present and not tampered with. When the user removes the cap, the tamper evident wire is broken. Once the cap has been removed, if the user places the cap back onto the container and places the container/cap/tampered RFID tag back into the RFID box, the presently disclosed system will read the tag as being tampered with and will inquire with the user as to why the tag is missing. One default approach would be to regard tampered tags as missing but other protocols could be implemented to require the user to specify then as to why the tag was tampered with.
The “ratchet” design has more steps to manufacture of the two designs, as it requires a tightly-toleranced ratchet on the cap and container to work in concert. However, a resulting advantage of additional steps undertaken in manufacturing is that the ratchet design does not require the user to have to thread the wire through the cap and the container after they insert the narcotic into the container. The cap can be provided to the user with the RFID tag installed and the tamper evident wire already fully threaded through the cap and connected back to the RFID tag. The user will place the narcotic into the container that they wish to secure. The cap will then be placed onto the container. As discussed and shown, the ratchet fit container has a slot that is open to the top on the side. There is a complementary slot on the opposite side. When the user places the cap onto the container the tamper evident wire will follow the slot on the side of the container to the bottom of the slot as the user places the cap on.
The “ratchet” design has respective ratchet system aspects respectively on the container and cap. The complementary retaining tabs on the container and cap serve to keep the user from removing the cap once the ratchet is engaged. Once the user places the cap onto the container, they will turn the cap slightly clockwise. This serves two functions 1) it will engage the first set of teeth in the ratchet system preventing the cap from being turned counterclockwise and 2) the retaining tabs on the cap will be under the retaining tab on the container, preventing the cap from being removed by pulling up. In this state, the wire is now trapped between the end of the slot in the container and the hole in the cap. The lid cannot be removed by pulling because the retaining tabs are preventing such movement and the cap cannot be twisted counterclockwise as the ratchet teeth are preventing any such movement.
After the cap is installed properly, there is no way to remove the cap without breaking the tag wire. When the in-tact container/RFID tag is placed into the RFID narcotics box, the system will read this tag (and therefore the narcotic) as being present and not tampered with. When the user removes the cap from the container by twisting the cap clockwise through the next sets of ratchet teeth, the tamper evident wire is necessarily broken. After the cap is twisted clockwise (and the wire has been broken), the retaining tab on the container is no longer blocking the retaining tab on the cap and the cap can be removed. Once the cap has been removed, if the user places the cap back onto the container and places the container/cap/tampered RFID tag back into the RFID box, the presently disclosed system will read the tag as being tampered with and will inquire with the user as to why the tag is missing. One default approach would be to regard tampered tags as missing but other protocols could be implemented to require the user to specify then as to why the tag was tampered with.
As discussed, in addition to vials and ampules, it is common for ambulances to carry syringe injection components such as the “Carpuject” syringes otherwise described herein. The user and system interface for such syringe usage follows the same approach, simply using instead the container and cap combination shown and discussed in conjunction with
It will also be understood from the complete disclosure herewith that a presently disclosed container/cap/RFID tag combination can be used as a stand-alone identification and/or tamper detection device, whether or not used in combination with a narcotics box or complete system as disclosed herewith.
In various embodiments, tags may be variously encoded with information. For example, for one preferred embodiment, tags may be encoded with three fields of information.
A first field can include a plurality of alpha numeric characters. For example, 6 alpha numeric characters may correspond to the drug type. An initial example set could include:
It would be possible to add additional drug names. Use of a 6 character ID provides the ability to call immediate attention to the drug type, so that the system does not have to be “taught” each tag when it sees it (that is—a user doesn't need to tell the system that tag number “2-987” is morphine—it is tag “morphn-2-987” and the system will know that “morphn” is actually morphine. The firmware can have a look up table converting the 6 character ID to the real name (for example—hymrph is HYDROmorphone). The table can be expanded in the future to add more real names that correspond to other 6 character ID's. If a 6 character ID does not have a corresponding real name, the system can simply use the 6 character ID when asking the user about the status of missing narcotics.
A second field of tag information can be a system ID (for example, from 1-256) corresponding to the system ID that programmed the tag. Such an approach would facilitate more than one location making tags in the future
A third field of tag information can be a drug ID that goes, for example, from 1−(2{circumflex over ( )}24−1) or (16,777,215).
Combining all three fields (especially the second and third fields) means that every tag produced would be unique, to prevent the creation of duplicate tags. Creation locations (field two) could also introduce series suffixes to further help prevent creation of duplicate identical tags.
Also, the first field can be varied to accommodate various schemes for spelling and/or presentation of drug identifications, especially to adopt changing industry standards regarding name specs.
While the presently disclosed subject matter has been described in detail with respect to specific exemplary embodiments and methods thereof, it will be appreciated that those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of the foregoing, may readily produce alterations to, variations of, and equivalents to such embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is by way of example rather than by way of limitation, and the subject disclosure does not preclude inclusion of such modifications, variations, and/or additions to the presently disclosed subject matter as would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.
This application claims priority to, and is a divisional of, U.S. application Ser. No. 16/788,672 filed Feb. 12, 2020 entitled “MEDICINAL DOSAGE STORAGE AND METHOD FOR COMBINED ELECTRONIC INVENTORY DATA AND ACCESS CONTROL” which claimed benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application entitled “MEDICINAL DOSAGE STORAGE AND METHOD FOR COMBINED ELECTRONIC INVENTORY DATA AND ACCESS CONTROL,” and assigned U.S. Ser. No. 62/806,962, filed Feb. 18, 2019, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20210182646 A1 | Jun 2021 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62806962 | Feb 2019 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16788672 | Feb 2020 | US |
| Child | 17186381 | US |
