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Medical Patent Abstract
A system for disposing of medical waste is generally configured
to sort waste items into a plurality of containers according to
applicable rules and regulations governing the handling and/or disposal
of such items. In some embodiments, a system comprises sorting stations
each of which houses a number of disposable containers. Each station
can identify an item of waste, determine the most appropriate container
for the item, and facilitate disposal of the item in the appropriate
container. In some embodiments, a detection system for determining
a presence and/or a quantity of waste items within a container is
also provided. In some embodiments, access to discarded waste items
is restricted once the waste items have been placed in a container.
Medical Patent Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method for sorting a plurality of medical waste items, the
method comprising: providing a plurality of container compartments,
each container compartment configured to receive a removable container;
providing a plurality of removable containers, wherein each of said
removable containers comprises an opening; providing a movable lid
coupled with each of said removable containers; wherein the removable
containers are configured to be placed within the container compartments,
wherein each of the removable containers is associated with at least
one of a plurality of medical waste categories, wherein the movable
lid is movable to an open position; and wherein the movable lid
is movable to a closed position; providing a handheld waste item
identification device configured to determine a information on a
medical waste item; providing a control system that compares information
obtained from the handheld waste item identification device with
medical waste item classification information contained in a database;
assigning the waste item to at least one medical waste category;
and identifying one of the removable containers based on the medical
waste category; allowing the movable lid of the identified removable
container to move to the open position to permit disposal of said
medical waste item; and locking the movable lid after receipt of
a medical waste item.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising locking the movable
lid after the container coupled with said lid has reached a pre-set
fill level.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the handheld waste item identification
device comprises a barcode scanner that scans said medical waste
item.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising communicating information
from the handheld waste item identification device to said control
system.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising wirelessly communicating
information from the handheld waste item identification device to
said control system.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein said handheld waste item identification
comprises a display.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising displaying information
regarding the waste item being discarded.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein said waste item classification
information comprises classification information based on environmental
or drug enforcement regulations.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein said handheld waste item identification
device comprises a manual input system for manually entering information
regarding the waste item.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein said handheld waste item identification
device comprises a manual input system that queries a user for information
as to whether the waste item is a sharps or whether the waste item
is empty.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of said moveable
lids is configured to be manually closed.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of said moveable
lids is configured to be automatically closed or locked upon disposal
of the waste item.
13. The method of claim 1, further comprising: sensing disposal
of said waste item into at least one of said containers, automatically
closing or locking the lid associated with said container upon receiving
information based on said sensor.
14. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing at least
one said containers with a machine-readable identification key,
thereby enabling said container to be hot-swapped.
15. The method of claim 1, further comprising restricting access
to the internal contents of at least of said container while said
container is open and still capable of receiving waste.
16. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of said containers
is reusable.
17. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of said containers
is configured to contain sharps.
18. The method of claim 1, further comprising configuring said
control system to automatically determine the waste category associated
with at least one of said containers after said container is placed
into said container compartment.
19. The method of claim 1, further comprising configuring said
control system to automatically determine the waste category associated
with at least one of said containers based on a machine readable
key that is located on said container.
20. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing said database,
wherein said database comprises rules and regulations governing
the disposal of pharmaceutical waste.
Medical Patent Description
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates in general to the field of waste disposal
systems, and in particular to a system for sorting medical waste
for disposal.
2. Description of the Related Art
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces the Resource
Conservation & Recovery Act (RCRA) which was enacted in 1976
in order to control the disposal of harmful or hazardous waste materials.
There are currently over 100,000 drugs commercially available in
the United States, of which about 14,000 are considered hazardous
by RCRA requirements. A typical medium size hospital utilizes thousands
of different drugs in a year of which hundreds are considered hazardous.
The EPA is increasingly enforcing hospitals' compliance with the
RCRA requirements because it has been shown in several studies that
the 72 million pounds of pharmaceutical waste generated each year
by hospitals and individuals is contributing to the pollution of
groundwater and endocrine system damage in humans and other species.
In addition, many organizations including Hospital for a Healthy
Environment (H2E) and Joint Council for Accreditation of Healthcare
Organizations (JCAHO) are pressing hospitals to be more environmentally
friendly. In view of these changes, hospitals are increasing efforts
to audit their own compliance with the laws. As a result, these
hospitals are becoming more aware of the difficulty of sorting the
numerous pharmaceutical waste streams that the EPA, Department of
Transportation (DOT), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and
some states require.
More than 3.2 million tons of medical waste is generated by hospitals,
medical clinics and pharmaceutical manufacturers each year. Half
of this waste is considered infectious. Most of the infectious waste
was treated in over 2400 incinerators throughout the country, until
1998 when the EPA began to enforce tough environmental emission
laws that have reduced the number of incinerators to just over a
hundred nationwide. Now much of the infectious waste is treated
by alternative technologies such as autoclaves and chemical processors.
There is very little choice for hospitals because of the upfront
cost and large footprint of the processing equipment. Although many
companies have offered different kinds of equipment, the prices
vary from a few hundred thousand dollars for smaller units to a
few million for large units. Because of the long cycling times to
decontaminate the waste, the equipment typically is very large in
order to provide acceptable throughput. There are also several companies
that provide a service to hospitals by utilizing chemical processors
mounted on trucks. They go to a facility and decontaminate the infectious
waste, allowing the treated waste to be hauled to a local landfill.
There are concerns that this technology may not completely treat
the waste in all circumstances and the chemical residue left after
processing may remain an ecological issue.
Increasingly, hospitals are required to comply with the recent
and projected enforcement of federal and state hazardous pharmaceutical
waste regulations. Currently, clinicians must manually sort pharmaceutical
waste streams into different colored containers for proper disposal
of the separate waste streams. It is often not clear to a clinician
which pharmaceuticals or waste materials are hazardous simply by
looking at the container. Such confusion may lead to clinicians
throwing hazardous drugs in non-hazardous containers such as sharps
containers, infectious waste bags, non-hazardous pharmaceutical
containers or simply down the drain.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
There remains a need for a system for allowing clinicians to more
easily sort medical waste items for appropriate disposal. There
also remains a need for an automated system of waste disposal that
encourages and facilitates hospital compliance with the relevant
federal and state regulations.
Several embodiments of the present application describe systems
and devices to sort and process infectious and pharmaceutical waste
streams. Embodiments of a medical waste sorting system advantageously
provide a labor savings for doctors, nurses and other clinicians
by taking the bulk of the decision making associated with sorting
medical waste away from the clinician. In one embodiment, a medical
waste sorting system is provided, which will help clinicians conveniently
comply with the recent and projected enforcement of federal and
state hazardous waste laws. In some embodiments, the system can
be configured to scan a bar code, RFID tag, or other system for
identifying a spent drug. The spent drug can then be classified
into an appropriate waste category, and a door can be automatically
opened to provide access to a unique waste container for convenient
disposal of the drug in compliance with applicable regulations.
In addition to the need for medical and pharmaceutical waste sorting,
there exists a need to improve areas of water quality analysis and
workplace safety. These areas include sampling water quality throughout
the hospital to pinpoint inappropriate dumping of hazardous materials
down the drain and improved programs that reduce hospital worker
exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace.
In one embodiment, the invention comprises a system and method
for sorting waste using one or more restricted access containers.
In a preferred embodiment, the system and method comprises a plurality
of containers associated with a plurality of waste categories, wherein
at least one of the containers is configured to restrict access
to the internal portion of the container when the container is open.
The system and method may also include a waste item identification
device configured to determine a qualitative parameter of an item
of waste, and a database comprising waste item classification information.
The system and method may also include a control system programmed
to compare the qualitative parameter of the item to information
contained in the database, and assign the item to a waste category.
The system and method (e.g., the control system in one embodiment)
can be further configured to identify at least one of the containers
based on the waste category.
In one embodiment, the container prevents unauthorized personnel
from accessing the waste item once the item has been deposited into
the container, thereby restricting access to the internal contents
of that container.
In one embodiment, at least one of the containers comprises a lid.
In one embodiment, one of the containers comprises a lid. In another
embodiment, all of the containers comprise lids. In yet another
embodiment, some of the containers comprise lids. In a further embodiment,
one lid is used to cover two or more containers. In one embodiment,
the system comprises one or more lids, wherein the lid is formed
integrally with the container.
The lid may comprise a V-shaped cross-section and circular outer
edges. A "V-shaped cross-section" as used herein shall
be given its ordinary meaning and shall also include substantially
V-shaped configurations. In one embodiment, the V-shaped lid comprises
an angle of about 135 degrees. Shapes other than "V" may
also be used. In some embodiments, the angle is greater than 0 degrees
and less than 180 degrees. In one embodiment, the V-shaped lid (or
similar shaped lid, such as a U-shape or L-shape, or T-shape) has
an angle that is about 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, or 150 degrees.
In one embodiment, at least one of the containers comprises a shield.
In one embodiment, the shield acts in concert with the lid to physically
restrict access to the inside of the container. In one embodiment,
the shield cooperatively moves with the lid. In one embodiment,
the shield is positioned at one end of the lid. The shield may be
positioned at the end of the lid, at the center of the lid, or positioned
somewhere in between.
In one embodiment, the system comprises a latch assembly. In one
embodiment, the latch assembly is coupled to the container and/or
the lid. The latch assembly can cause the lid to open and/or close.
In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste based
on primary and alternate disposal strategies is disclosed. In a
preferred embodiment, the system and method comprises a plurality
of containers associated with a plurality of waste categories. The
system and method may also comprise a waste item identification
device configured to determine a qualitative parameter of a waste
item. In one embodiment, the system also comprises a database comprising
waste item classification information. The system and method may
also comprise a control system programmed to compare the qualitative
parameter of the waste item to information contained in the database,
assign the waste item to a waste category, determine the preferred
container in which the waste item should be placed based on the
assigned waste category, determine if said preferred container is
capable of accepting the waste item and direct a user to perform
an alternative disposal action if the preferred container is not
capable of accepting the waste item.
In one embodiment, the user is directed to dispose of the waste
item in an alternative waste container. In a further embodiment,
the user is directed to dispose of the waste item in a waste container
located in another room. In yet another embodiment, the user is
directed to dispose of the waste item in a waste container located
on another floor.
In one embodiment, the user is directed to dispose of the waste
item in a bulk container. In a further embodiment, the user does
not have access to the internal contents of the containers.
In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste using
a manual input system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system
and method comprises a plurality of container compartments, with
each container compartment configured to receive a removable container.
The system may also comprise a plurality of removable containers,
wherein each removable container comprises an opening and a movable
lid. In another embodiment, the removable containers are configured
to be placed within the container compartments, wherein each of
the removable containers is associated with at least one of a plurality
of waste categories. In one embodiment, the movable lid is movable
to an open position and/or a covered position. The system may comprise
a manual input system for entering additional information regarding
the waste item. The system and method may also comprise a waste
item identification device configured to read a barcode on an item
of waste. The system and method may further comprise a database
comprising waste item classification information derived from rules
and regulations affecting the disposal of waste item. In yet another
embodiment, a control system configured to compare information obtained
from the barcode to information contained in the database is provided.
The control system may further configured to assign the item to
at least one waste category, to identify at least one of the removable
containers based on the waste category, to allow the movable lid
of the identified removable container to move to the open position
and/or to lock the movable lid in the covered position when the
control system determines that the removable container is full.
In another embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of containers
associated with a plurality of waste categories and a waste item
identification device is configured to determine a qualitative parameter
of an item of waste. The system may also comprise a manual input
system for entering additional information regarding the waste item.
In a further embodiment, the system includes a database comprising
waste item classification information. In one embodiment, the system
may also comprise a control system programmed to compare the qualitative
parameter of the item to information contained in the database,
and assign the item to a waste category based on the manually entered
additional information and the waste item classification information.
In yet another embodiment, the control system may be configured
to identify at least one of the containers based on the waste category.
In one embodiment, the control system is further configured to
notify a user of the assigned waste category. In another embodiment,
the control system is configured to notify a user of the assigned
waste category by indicating an appropriate container into which
the item should be deposited. In one embodiment, the control system
may be configured to indicate the appropriate container by opening
a door. In other embodiments, the control system may be configured
to indicate the appropriate container by illuminating a light. In
yet other embodiments, the control system may be configured to indicate
the appropriate container by both opening a door and illuminating
a light. In one embodiment, the control system may be configured
to indicate the appropriate container by indicating the necessary
information on a fixed and/or handheld display.
In some embodiments, the manual input system comprises a display
and a keyboard having at least one button. In one embodiment, the
keyboard comprises two buttons. In another embodiment, the keyboard
comprises four buttons. In one embodiment, the keyboard is an alphanumeric
keyboard, permitting the user to enter more detailed information.
In one embodiment, the manual input system comprises one or more
soft keys on a display. In one embodiment, the display is a low
cost display. In another embodiment, the manual input system queries
the user for information regarding the waste item. In some embodiments,
the system queries the user visually and/or audibly. In some embodiments,
at least one button and/or soft key includes a graphical description.
In other embodiments, the manually entered additional information
is related to the volume of remaining contents in a waste item.
In yet other embodiments, the manually entered additional information
is whether the waste item is a sharps. In further embodiments, the
manually entered additional information is related to both the volume
of remaining contents in a waste item and whether the waste item
is a sharps. In one embodiment, the system comprises keys, buttons,
or other means to input whether or not the waste is sharps or not
sharps, empty or not empty.
In some embodiments, the waste item identification device is at
least partially available or situated on a handheld electronic device.
In one embodiment, the additional information is manually entered
into a handheld electronic device. In a further embodiment, access
to the internal contents of the containers is restricted.
In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste using
different modes of operation is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment,
the system comprises a plurality of container compartments, each
container compartment configured to receive a removable container.
A plurality of removable containers may also be provided, wherein
each removable container comprises an opening and a movable lid.
In one embodiment, the removable containers are configured to be
placed within the container compartments, wherein each removable
container is associated with at least one waste category. In one
embodiment, the movable lid is movable to an open position and/or
a covered position. The system and method may be further configured
to allow a user to select a mode of operation. In one embodiment,
a waste item identification device is configured to read a barcode
on an item of waste. In a further embodiment, a database comprising
waste item classification information derived from rules and regulations
affecting the disposal of waste items is provided. In another embodiment,
a control system is configured to compare information obtained from
the barcode to information contained in the database and to assign
the item to a waste category. In another embodiment, the control
system is further configured to identify one or more removable containers
based on the waste category. In a preferred embodiment, the control
system is also configured to allow the movable lid of the identified
removable container to move to the open position and to lock the
movable lid in the covered position when the control system determines
that the container is full.
In another embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of containers
associated with a plurality of waste categories, and a waste item
identification device configured to determine a qualitative parameter
of an item of waste. In one embodiment, a database comprising waste
item classification information may be provided. In one embodiment
at least one mode of operation may be selected by a user. In another
embodiment, a control system is programmed to compare said qualitative
parameter of the item to information contained in the database and
to assign the item to a waste category according to the selected
mode of operation. In a preferred embodiment, the control system
is further configured to identify at least one of the containers
based on the waste category.
In some embodiments, the mode of operation differentiates between
economic and environmental benefits. In some embodiments, the mode
of operation depends on the accommodation of available waste haulers.
In further embodiments, access to the internal contents of the containers
is restricted.
In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste using
at least one authenticated network connection is disclosed. In one
embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of containers associated
with a plurality of waste categories. In one embodiment, a waste
item identification device is configured to determine a qualitative
parameter of an item of waste. In a further embodiment, a database
comprising waste item classification information is provided. In
other embodiments, a control system is programmed to compare the
qualitative parameter of the item to information contained in the
database and to assign the waste item to a waste category. In other
embodiments, the control system is further configured to identify
at least one of the containers based on the waste category. In one
embodiment, at least one network connection is provided, permitting
the control system to communicate with at least one other component
of the system. In a further embodiment, the one or more network
connections are authenticated.
In some embodiments, the one or more network connections comprise
a hardwired connection. In one embodiment, the hardwired connection
comprises an Ethernet connection. In other embodiments, the one
or more network connections comprise a wireless connection. In one
embodiment, the one or more network connections may comprise both
hardwired and wireless connections. In one embodiment, authentication
is accomplished by using the entry of at least one necessary code.
In one preferred embodiment, the necessary code or codes are entered
using one or more flash drives and/or keyboarded devices. In one
embodiment, the keyboarded device is a personal computer. In one
embodiment, the one or more necessary codes is entered using one
or more Ethernet ports. In some preferred embodiments, the one or
more network connections are secured by one or more firewall systems.
In other embodiments, access to the waste items after the waste
item is placed into said container is restricted to authorized personnel.
In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste comprising
updated waste information is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system
comprises a plurality of containers associated with a plurality
of waste categories. In one embodiment, a waste item identification
device is configured to determine a qualitative parameter of an
item of waste. In a further embodiment, a database comprising waste
item classification information configured to receive updates to
the information is provided. In yet a further embodiment, a control
system is programmed to compare the qualitative parameter of the
item to information contained in the database and assign the item
to a waste category. The control system may be further configured
to identify at least one of the containers based on the waste category.
In one embodiment, the updates are received in real-time. In one
embodiment, the updates are received from one or more networks.
In a further embodiment, the updates are received at least once
during a pre-determined time period. In some embodiments, the one
or more networks are secured by one or more firewall systems. In
other embodiments, access to the internal contents of the containers
is restricted.
In one embodiment, a system for determining the level of contents
within a container is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the
system comprises a plurality of containers, with each of container
associated with at least one waste category. In one embodiment,
waste is placed in the containers based on a determination by a
database that comprises waste classification information. In one
embodiment, the system comprises a bar passing through each container
at approximately the fill level of the container. The system may
also comprise one or more detectors positioned to detect movement
of the bar. In one embodiment, the system further comprises one
or more position indicators attached to the bar. In one embodiment,
movement of the bar is detected by having the one or more detectors
detect movement of one or more position indicators. In some embodiments,
the detector may be an optical detector, a non-optical detector,
a photo-detector, a photo-interruptor, a mechanical sensor, an electrical
sensor or an acoustical sensor.
In some embodiments, each container further comprises a lid which
works in conjunction with the bar of the corresponding container.
In a further embodiment, when it is determined that the container
is not capable of accepting any additional waste items, the lid
operates to exclude further access to that container. In some embodiments,
the position indicator may be situated on the outside of the container.
In other embodiments, the position indicator may be situated on
the inside of the container. In some embodiments, the detector may
be situated on the outside of the container. In other embodiments,
the detector may be situated on the inside of the container. In
a preferred embodiment, the bar is released at intervals to sweep
across the container to determine the level in the container. In
one embodiment, the bar is released every time the lid is opened.
In some embodiments, access to the internal contents of the containers
is restricted.
In some embodiments, the waste identification device comprises
a handheld device. In some embodiments, the waste identification
device may comprise a wireless handheld device that is operable
to open the appropriate container for disposal of the waste item.
In yet other embodiments, the waste identification device comprises
a wireless handheld device that is operable to signal the appropriate
container for disposal of the waste item.
In one embodiment of the invention, a system for sorting a plurality
of waste items is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system comprises
a plurality of containers, with each container associated with at
least one waste category. In a preferred embodiment, a handheld
waste item identification device is configured to determine a qualitative
parameter of an item of waste. In one embodiment, a database comprising
waste item classification information is provided. In a further
embodiment, a control system is configured to compare information
obtained from the handheld waste item identification device to information
contained in the database. In another embodiment, the control system
is further configured to assign the item to at least one waste category.
In yet another embodiment, the control system is further configured
to identify at least one of the containers based on the waste category.
In some embodiments, the handheld waste item identification device
comprises a barcode scanner. In some embodiments, the handheld waste
item identification device is wireless. The wireless handheld waste
item identification device, in some embodiments, communicates wirelessly
using infrared technology, Bluetooth technology, and/or radiofrequency.
In a preferred embodiment, the handheld waste item identification
device displays information regarding the waste item being discarded.
In one embodiment, the information displayed on the handheld device
comprises information regarding the particular waste container in
which the waste item should be placed. In some embodiments, the
handheld device may be capable of determining the user's location
so that the nearest waste container in which the waste item should
be placed may be identified.
In one embodiment, the system comprises a handheld device that
is used to scan the waste item. The system then determines in which
remote container the waste item should be disposed. The handheld
can provide text instructions to the user as to the proper container.
Alternatively, the system can automatically open the proper container
for disposal. After the waste item is disposed, the container can
be manually or automatically shut.
In some embodiments, the waste comprises medical or pharmaceutical
waste. In some embodiments, the waste item classification information
comprises classification information based on local, state, or national
environmental laws or regulations. In other embodiments, the waste
item classification information comprises classification information
based on local, state, or national drug enforcement laws or regulations.
In other embodiments, the waste item classification information
comprises classification information based on a user's customized
requirements. In yet other embodiments, the waste item classification
information comprises classification information based on one or
more different bases, including environmental laws or regulations,
drug enforcement laws or regulations and/or a customized system.
In one embodiment, at least one container comprises at least one
lid that is operable to be manually closed by the user. In some
embodiments, one or more containers comprise a machine-readable
identification key enabling said container to be hot-swapped.
In some embodiments of the invention, a method of sorting waste
is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises receiving
an identifier associated with waste to be disposed. In one embodiment,
the method further comprises retrieving, based on the identifier,
information from a database, wherein the information is derived
from applicable rules regarding disposal of waste items. In one
embodiment, the method also comprises assigning the waste to a disposal
category based on the information retrieved from the database. In
one embodiment, the method further comprises locating a container
associated with the assigned disposal category. In a preferred embodiment,
the method comprises providing access to an opening of the container
while simultaneously restricting access to the interior contents
of that container. In some embodiments, receiving an identifier
associated with waste is accomplished using a handheld device.
In one embodiment, a method of sorting waste is disclosed. In some
embodiments, the method comprises receiving an identifier associated
with waste to be disposed of using a handheld device. In one embodiment,
the method further comprises retrieving, based on the identifier,
information from a database, wherein the information is derived
from applicable rules regarding disposal of waste items. In one
embodiment, the method may also comprise assigning the waste to
a disposal category based on the information retrieved from the
database. In one embodiment, the method may comprise locating a
container associated with the assigned disposal category. In a preferred
embodiment, the method may comprise facilitating disposal of the
waste item into the container associated with the assigned disposal
category. In other embodiments, access to the internal contents
of the container is restricted. In other embodiments, locating a
container associated with the assigned disposal category also takes
into consideration a machine-readable identification key located
on each container that enables the containers to be hot-swapped.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of medical
waste sorting and disposal system including a plurality of interconnected
sorting and disposal stations in a centralized network;
FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of medical
waste sorting and disposal system implemented in a decentralized
network;
FIG. 3 is a perspective illustration of an embodiment of a wall-mounted
sorting and disposal station;
FIG. 4 is a perspective illustration of one embodiment of a floor-standing
sorting and disposal station;
FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a rolling
cart sorting and disposal station;
FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a rolling
cart sorting and disposal station;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and
disposal station incorporated into a rolling medications cart;
FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the cart
of FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 is an alternative embodiment of the cart of FIG. 7;
FIG. 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of one embodiment
of a sorting and disposal station comprising pivotable containers
and sleeves;
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and
disposal station in the form of a convertible rolling cart in a
first configuration;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertible
rolling cart in a second configuration;
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a container
and portions of an interface with a sorting and disposal station;
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a
container and portions of an interface with a sorting and disposal
station;
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a
container;
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container and
an alternative embodiment of portions of an interface with a sorting
and disposal station;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container and
an alternative embodiment of portions of an interface with a sorting
and disposal station;
FIG. 18 is a schematic side elevation view of an embodiment of
a fill level sensor;
FIG. 19 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a fill-level detection
system;
FIG. 20 is a an overview flow chart of one embodiment of a software
algorithm for measuring a fill level of a container;
FIG. 21 is a detailed flow chart of one embodiment of a method
of measuring a fill level of a container
FIG. 22 is a continuation of the flow chart of FIG. 21;
FIG. 22A is an electronic schematic of one embodiment of an array
of light detectors, illustrated further in FIGS. 22A.sub.1-A.sub.5;
FIG. 23 is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of a level
sensor system employing a video camera;
FIG. 23A is an electronic schematic of one embodiment of an alternative
embodiment employing a video system, illustrated further in FIGS.
23A.sub.1-A.sub.7;
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a sorting
algorithm for use by embodiments of a medical waste sorting and
disposal system;
FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a container-checking subroutine
for use by embodiments of a medical waste sorting and disposal system;
FIG. 26 is a diagram of one embodiment of machine-readable patterns
for containers;
FIG. 27 is a table of examples of a 2-button action file;
FIG. 28A is a schematic of one embodiment of a 2-button keyboard
and display indicating a first prompt;
FIG. 28B is a schematic of one embodiment of a 2-button keyboard
and display indicating a second prompt;
FIG. 29 is a table of examples of a 4-button action file;
FIG. 30A is a schematic of one embodiment of a switch arrangement
utilizing graphic images;
FIG. 30B is a schematic of one embodiment of a switch arrangement
utilizing graphic images;
FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating a decision logic for identifying
and categorizing a particular waste item;
FIG. 32 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the invention,
showing a cart version of a pharmaceutical waste collection and
sorting device;
FIG. 33 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention,
showing a wall unit version of a pharmaceutical waste collection
and sorting device.
FIG. 34A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and
disposal system, shown presenting a waste item near the scanner;
FIG. 34B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and
disposal system, shown dropping a waste item into a container;
FIG. 34C is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and
disposal system, shown closing the container;
FIG. 35a is a perspective view of one embodiment of a substantially
vertically-oriented sorting and disposal system;
FIG. 35b is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and
disposal system;
FIG. 35c is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and
disposal system, showing a handheld waste identification device;
FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a container with a lid and a bar;
FIG. 37 is side elevation view of a lid and a bar in the closed
position;
FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar in the closed
position;
FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar in the partially
open position;
FIG. 40 is a side elevation view of a lid and a bar in the partially
open position;
FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar in the open position;
FIG. 42 is a side elevation view of a lid and a bar in the open
position;
FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a bar blocked by the container
contents;
FIG. 44 is a side elevation view of a bar blocked by the container
contents;
FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a latch assembly;
FIG. 46 is an elevation view of a latch assembly;
FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar position detectors;
FIG. 48 is an elevation view of a lid and a bar position detectors;
and
FIG. 49 is a schematic of one embodiment of a firewall system used
for data network protection.
FIG. 50 is a schematic of one embodiment of a prescription drug
label that facilitates proper disposal of the item.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Waste Sorting and Disposal System
Embodiments of devices and methods for sorting a plurality of medical
wastes will now be described with reference to the attached figures.
In several embodiments, the waste sorting and disposal system is
automated. In some embodiments, a medical waste sorting system comprising
a plurality of individual sorting and disposal stations connected
to one another via a centralized or de-centralized network is provided.
Alternatively, a medical waste sorting system can comprise one or
more stand-alone sorting and disposal stations configured to operate
independently of any other device. Although some of the following
embodiments are described in the context of individual stand-alone
stations, it should be recognized that such individual stations
can be connected in a networked system to provide additional functionality
or to improve efficiency. Conversely, some embodiments are described
below in the context of networked systems, certain features and
advantages of which can be readily applied to individual stand-alone
systems as will be clear to the skilled artisan. The term "sorting"
is a broad term and shall be given its ordinary meaning and generally
refers to the distribution of one or more waste items into one or
more appropriate waste receptacles. The term "disposing"
is also a broad term and shall be given its ordinary meaning and
shall, in some embodiments, generally refer to the discarding or
"throwing out" of one or more items of waste into an appropriate
receptacle. As used herein, the terms receptacle and container are
broad terms that can be used interchangeably.
In one embodiment, a waste sorting and disposal station comprises
a sorting station or machine, which includes a series of container
positions or compartments, each compartment being configured to
receive a removable container for collecting waste belonging to
a particular category or classification. Some embodiments of a sorting
station comprise a waste-identifying device, a processor configured
to carry out a waste-sorting algorithm, and a waste-sorting mechanism.
As used herein, the term "removable" shall be given its
ordinary meaning, and shall include disposable or reusable containers.
In some embodiments, a sorting machine comprises one or more sensors
for determining the presence of a container, a type of container,
and/or a volume or weight of a container. In another embodiment,
the sorting machine includes one or more sensors (e.g., an optical
sensor) to determine which container the item was deposited into
and/or a time at which an item is deposited. Additionally, a sorting
machine/station can include any of a variety of computer peripherals,
such as user input devices (e.g., touch screens, keyboards, pointer
devices, etc.), display devices, sound-producing devices (e.g.,
speakers or buzzers), or any other peripheral device.
In many embodiments, several container types are provided, each
type being associated with one or more particular categories or
classifications of pharmaceutical waste. In one embodiment, a single
container is associated with a single waste category. In another
embodiment, a single container is associated with multiple waste
categories.
In some embodiments, container types can include sharps containers,
chemotherapy agent containers, infectious waste containers, ignitable
waste containers, hazardous P-list waste containers, hazardous U-list
waste containers, toxic pharmaceutical waste containers, non-toxic
pharmaceutical waste containers, chemotherapy sharps containers,
corrosive waste containers, or reactive waste containers. Additional
container types can also be used as desired. In one embodiment,
the container types are pre-designated by the container provider.
In other embodiments, the container types are assigned by the hospital
so that the hospital can individually customize its waste sorting
system. For example, some hospitals may desire to define their own
waste categories in order to comply with internal goals, thus user-defined
container types can also be provided.
In a preferred embodiment, a waste identifying mechanism is provided.
In several embodiments, the waste identifying mechanism is configured
to identify a particular item of waste. Identification is preferably
accomplished prior to deposit into the appropriate container. Identification
of the waste item can be accomplished by scanning a barcode, reading
a label (e.g., using an optical scanner and Optical Character Recognition
software), reading a Radio Frequency identification (RFID) tag,
chemical sensors, spectroscopic analyzers, or by measuring or evaluating
any other qualitative parameter of the waste item presented for
identification. Alternatively still, an item of waste can be identified
by user input of information such as a trade name, a generic name,
a chemical name, National Drug Code (NDC), the abbreviated name
of the drug (or mnemonic), or other data associated with a particular
item of waste. For example, a 325 mg dose of aspirin can be identified
by ASPIOT3272. In one embodiment, a user can simply read a waste
identifier from an item of medical waste and enter the identifier
into the system via a keyboard, touch screen or other user input
device.
In one embodiment, once an item of waste is identified, the sorting
algorithm determines to which of a plurality of waste categories
the item belongs. The station then indicates to the user which container
is associated with that category. For example, in some embodiments
the station indicates a correct container by opening a door providing
access to the container. Alternatively, such an indication can be
provided by illuminating a light or displaying a name or number
of a container on a display device. In some embodiments, a waste
sorting mechanism can carry out or instruct a user in delivery of
the waste item to the appropriate container.
In some embodiments, the waste sorting mechanism comprises a plurality
of openings providing access to the plurality of containers. For
example, each of the containers can be configured to interface with
an automatically operable door or other means to present the container
opening to the user. Some embodiments of such an interface are described
in further detail below. Alternatively, the sorting machine can
be configured to provide access to an appropriate container in other
ways, such as by moving a container relative to the machine in order
to present a container opening to a user. In further alternative
embodiments, the sorting mechanism can include a series of lights
or other indicators configured to inform a user of the correct container
for a particular item of waste. Alternatively still, the sorting
mechanism can include an apparatus configured to receive an item
of waste from a user and physically convey the item to the appropriate
container, which may be removable.
In some embodiments, a single waste item may call for disposal
in multiple containers. For example, a syringe might contain a quantity
of a hazardous or controlled substance, which requires disposal
in a first container. However, the syringe itself may require disposal
in a second, separate container. In such embodiments, it is desirable
for the system to determine an appropriate sequence for the disposal
of the separate parts of a single item. In the event that a waste
item contains information (such as a barcode or label) sufficient
to inform the system of the need for a sequence of disposal steps,
the system can determine the optimum sequence, and can then inform
the user of the appropriate sequence. The system may inform a user
of the appropriate sequence by sequentially opening appropriate
doors and/or by displaying instructions on a display screen. In
one embodiment, a means can be provided for the user to indicate
whether an item of waste is empty or contains residual or bulk hazardous
or non-hazardous contents.
Alternatively, it may be desirable for a user to determine the
best sequence for disposal, in which case, the user may enter information
into the system requesting a particular sequence. Additionally,
it may also be desirable for the system to include "shortcut
keys" in order to provide quick access to frequently-used containers,
such as sharps containers. Such shortcut keys can be configured
to quickly open a selected container.
In some embodiments, when a single waste item comprises a composite
of elements falling into different waste categories, such as a syringe
containing a controlled substance, which might, if disposed separately,
be sorted into two different containers, the waste sorting system
can indicate disposal of the composite waste item into the correct
container. In this manner, when it is inefficient, ineffective or
even dangerous to separate the single composite waste item into
its individual components, hospitals can still achieve compliance
by disposing of such hybrid or composite items into the most conservative
hazard container. In some embodiments, if a composite waste item
could be deposited in more than one container, the containers within
a sorting station can be ranked in order from "less" to
"more" desirable in order to facilitate a determination
of which container is the "most appropriate" hazard container
in a given station. A determination of whether a particular container
type (and corresponding waste category or categories) is more or
less appropriate can be determined by a variety of suitable methods.
In some cases, a selection priority can be determined empirically,
while in other embodiments, the choice may be determined by comparing
properties, such as amount of residual content, relative chemical
toxicity, etc. bioactivity, etc., of elements of a particular waste
item.
In some embodiments, when a waste item is unrecognized by the identification
means, the sorting system will indicate disposal to the highest
hazard waste container. The system will notify the disposer that
the waste item was unrecognized. In another embodiment, the sorting
system may also notify a database or database personnel that the
waste item is unrecognized, thus facilitating a database upgrade
to include that waste item for future disposals. In one embodiment,
the system may be equipped with a dedicated container that is exclusively
used for disposing such unrecognized waste items. The subsequent
handling of waste items in such a dedicated container may depend
on regulatory requirements, the facility's personal preferences
or any other relevant consideration.
In another embodiment, a waste item identification device is configured
to receive a waste item identifier from a waste item, and a decision
system is configured to assign the waste item to a waste category
using the waste identifier and information contained in the classification
database. Each of the containers is associated with at least one
of the waste categories, and the decision system is further configured
to indicate into which of the containers a waste item should be
deposited based on the waste category. The decision system is further
configured to open an alternate container if the station does not
include a container associated with the assigned category. In one
embodiment, for example, the alternate container is a container
associated with the highest hazardous level will be opened. In another
embodiment, the alternate container is a container associated with
the "next best" disposal category for the waste item.
In one embodiment, the alternate container is located adjacent
to the preferred (or "first choice") container. In another
embodiment, the alternate container is located in a different location
from the preferred container. For example, the alternate container
can be located in a different room or on a different floor. In yet
another embodiment, if an alternate container is unavailable, then
the item may be rejected. In this situation, the user may be instructed
to obtain additional information on disposal.
Each of the containers is associated with at least one of the waste
categories, and the decision system is further configured to indicate
into which of the containers a waste item should be deposited based
on the waste category. The decision system is further configured
to open an alternate container if the station does not include a
container associated with the assigned category. In one embodiment,
for example, the alternate container is a container associated with
the highest hazardous level will be opened. In another embodiment,
the alternate container is a container associated with the "next
best" disposal category for the waste item.
In one embodiment, the alternate container is located adjacent
to the preferred (or "first choice") container. In another
embodiment, the alternate container is located in a different location
from the preferred container. For example, the alternate container
can be located in a different room or on a different floor of a
hospital or other institution.
In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to determine the quantity
of waste that has already been deposited into one or more containers.
In some embodiments, one or more sensors are used to quantitatively
assess one or more parameters of the container and/or waste. These
quantitative sensors include, but are not limited to, sensors that
detect the weight, volume, density, and/or fill level of the waste
in the container.
In one embodiment, one or more fill sensors are provided. A fill
level sensor can be used to monitor a fill level of each of the
containers to determine when a particular container is full. Once
a container is determined to be full, the sorting system can signal
a user to replace the full container with a new empty container.
Additionally, once a particular container is full, some embodiments
of the system can be configured to determine the weight or volume
of waste material within the full container. The system can also
be configured to print a label to be affixed to the container. The
label can include a variety of information relating to the disposal
of the waste items, the quantity, weight or volume of the items
contained therein, a waste category name or code, etc. In other
embodiments, the system may be configured to alert a user of other
nearby waste containers capable of accepting the waste.
In some embodiments, quantitative sensors are not used. Instead,
in one embodiment, the quantity of waste is determined by direct
visualization of the waste in a container. Transparent or translucent
containers are provided to facilitate visualization in some embodiments.
In several embodiments, the containers are opaque, but provide a
section or "view-strip" of translucent or transparent
material to permit visualization. In one embodiment, one or more
sensors are provided in conjunction with means to directly visualize
waste quantity. In one embodiment, means for detecting a quantity
of waste are not needed because the containers are replaced at regularly
scheduled intervals, as determined by a waste transport company,
a disposal company or hospital staff and independent of how much
waste is in any given container.
In some embodiments, when a new container is placed in a sorting
and disposal station, the system can be configured to identify the
new container according to the type of waste the container it is
permitted to hold. In some embodiments, a waste sorting and disposal
station can be configured to recognize containers in a static mode
in which each container position within the station/machine is associated
with a specific container type. Upon insertion of a new container
into the station, the system can recognize the type of container
and can determine whether the new container is the correct type
for the position in which it was placed. Thus, a system of this
type can insure that a consistent arrangement of container types
is maintained.
Alternatively, and more preferably, a sorting and disposal station
is configured to recognize container types in a dynamic mode in
which the machine is able to recognize and adapt to changing container
arrangements. Thus, according to this embodiment, each container
position/compartment in a station will recognize and accept any
new container regardless of the container type, and the software
will adapt a sorting routine to account for the new configuration.
In some cases, it may be desirable for a single station to have
multiple containers of a single type. For example, an oncology department
may desire several chemotherapy containers and no hazardous pharmaceutical
containers, while an area of the hospital that does not use chemotherapeutic
drugs may want several sharps containers and no chemotherapy containers.
This allows for substantial flexibility and customizability in system
set up. In further embodiments, a sorting and disposal station can
exhibit aspects of both static and dynamic systems, such as by allowing
any type of container in any container position, while requiring
a minimum number of containers of a particular type.
In some embodiments, the waste sorting and disposal system can
be significantly simplified by appropriately labeling of products
that will eventually be disposed as waste. For example, in one embodiment,
a prescription drug label may provide disposal information at the
time the label is generated. For example, the drug vial or other
pharmaceutical product label may indicate in what waste category
the item should be disposed. As illustrated in FIG. 50, in one embodiment,
the label may provide alternative waste categories under which it
should be disposed, depending on whether the item is empty or not
empty and/or whether the items is or is not a sharps. Such waste
categorization information printed on such labels may be obtained
from a waste disposal database as discussed herein.
For example, in one embodiment, an institution may print its own
specific labels that are based on waste categories. In one embodiment,
multiple labels are generated, each with its own simple code (color,
numerals, letters, etc) and affixed to a drug vial. At the time
of disposal, the scanner (which is configured to read these institution
specific codes) is able to associate the waste item with the appropriate
waste container. In one embodiment, a scanner is not needed. Rather,
the user can read the symbol and dispose of the waste accordingly.
Network-implemented System
In some embodiments, a waste sorting and disposal system can be
configured on a hospital-wide level by providing a plurality of
cooperating sorting and disposal stations throughout the hospital.
The system can include a plurality of individual sorting and disposal
stations in a variety of types, arrangements, sizes, functionalities,
etc.
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a centralized waste
sorting and disposal network. As shown, a centralized network 50
can include a main central unit 54 provided in electronic communication
with a plurality of smaller "satellite" units 60 throughout
a facility. In such a centralized network, the main unit 54 can
include a server containing the classification database 56 and any
other information to be shared with the satellite units 60. As information
is needed by a satellite unit 60, it can query the database via
the network in order to obtain that information. Alternatively,
or in addition, the main unit 54 can be configured to push updates
to the satellite units at regular intervals, or as new information
becomes available. In some embodiments, the main unit 54 can also
act as a central hub for various communications, tracking, maintenance
and other system functions.
FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a de-centralized medical waste
sorting and disposal system. The network 64 of FIG. 2 is substantially
decentralized and comprises a plurality of sorting and disposal
stations 60 which can communicate with one another according to
any suitable method. For example, in a decentralized network, each
of the individual units may locally store a copy of the classification
database. In order to keep the classification database updated,
the individual units can share information with one another according
to any of a variety of peer-to-peer network protocols. The individual
stations can also share other information with one another as will
be further described below.
In either case (centralized or decentralized network), the network
elements can be configured to communicate with one another via any
suitable wired and/or wireless network communication protocol. Many
hospitals already have existing wired and/or wireless networks connecting
computers and communications devices throughout the facility. Thus,
in some embodiments, a networked medical waste sorting and disposal
system can be configured as an add-on to an existing network. Alternatively,
a networked medical waste sorting and disposal system can be configured
as an independent network. Additionally, the main unit (if present)
and/or the satellite unit(s) can further be connected to external
networks (e.g., the internet) via wireless or wired connections
as desired, consistent with a hospital protocol.
In some embodiments, it may be desirable for one sorting and disposal
station to have access to information about one or all of the other
stations in the network. For instance, it may be desirable for any
one station to determine an arrangement of containers in one or
more nearby stations. For example, if a clinician presents an item
of waste to a station which does not presently have a container
suitable for disposal of the presented item, that station can direct
the clinician to the nearest station that does have an appropriate
container installed. In further embodiments, a log of such re-directions
can be kept in order to increase efficiency by arranging the sorting
and disposal stations to include the most frequently used containers
for a given location.
Some embodiments of a waste sorting and disposal system are configured
to communicate information directly to a technician, maintenance
person, clinician or other person. For example, the system can be
configured to alert a maintenance person when a container is full
by sending an alert signal to a pager, cell phone, PDA, computer
terminal, or any other suitable device. The maintenance person can
then remove the full container and replace it with an empty container
(of the same or a different type).
Individual Sorting/Disposal Stations
A medical waste sorting and disposal station can take a variety
of forms depending on the specific needs of a given clinic, hospital,
department, clinician, etc. For example, some embodiments of sorting
and disposal stations 60 are illustrated in FIGS. 3-12. For example,
a station can be provided in a wall-mounted unit 60a (e.g., see
FIG. 3), in a floor-standing unit 60b (FIG. 4), on a wheeled cart
60c (FIGS. 5 and 6), attached to a patient bed, attached to an IV
pole, attached to an existing wheeled medications cart 60d (FIGS.
7-9), or any of a variety of other shapes, forms and mounting locations.
The embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6 also includes a display device
70, a weight scale 72, a scanner 74 for identifying waste items
and a plurality of apertures 78 configured to reveal openings to
respective containers 80. In other embodiments, the apertures are
designed to selectively occlude and reveal openings or access ports.
With reference to FIGS. 7-9, some embodiments of a station can
comprise a movable lid 82 with a single aperture 84. The lid 82
can be substantially flexible such that it can be driven to translate
above the containers in order to selectively provide access to any
one of the containers below the lid 82.
In some embodiments, the sorting machine can be configured to provide
access to an appropriate container in other ways, such as by tilting,
raising, lowering, pivoting, translating or otherwise moving a container
relative to the machine in order to present the container opening
to a user.
FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment in which a sorting station comprises
a series of hinged sleeves 86 configured to pivot relative to a
fixed portion of the sorting station. Each sleeve 86 is generally
configured to temporarily house a container 80, which may be removable.
The station 60e comprises a series of actuators configured to pivot
each sleeve 86 and its associated container 80 outwards, thereby
exposing the container opening 88. In one embodiment, an actuator
90 can be located adjacent an upper portion of a container 80 and
can be configured to push the upper portion of the container outwards
from the station. Alternatively the sleeve 86 can be biased outwards
by a spring or simply by gravity, and an upper actuator can be configured
to release the sleeve/container to allow it to pivot outwards to
open. The upper actuator can then pull inwards to return the container/sleeve
to a closed position.
Alternatively or in addition, a lower actuator 92 can be provided
adjacent a bottom portion of the container/sleeve combination. In
one embodiment, a lower actuator 92 can comprise a drive axle 94
rigidly mounted to the sleeve 86. The axle 94 can be driven by a
motor or other mechanism in order to pivot the sleeve 86 inwards
and outwards. A container 80 can be inserted into the sleeve 86
and pivoted back so that a fixed portion of the station 60e covers
the container opening 88. During use, the actuator 90 or 92 causes
the sleeve 86 to pivot outward from the station 60e, thereby exposing
the container opening for use. The container 80 can be removed by
sliding it out of the sleeve 86. In an alternative embodiment, the
above system can be provided without a sleeve 86 by incorporating
an actuator and a pivot point into the container itself. In further
alternative embodiments, other actuators, drive mechanisms, etc
can be used in order to selectively provide access to a container
opening.
In another embodiment, the station can be configured to house each
of the containers in a sliding drawer. The drawers can include actuators
configured to move the drawer outwards until an opening is exposed.
The containers can then be easily removed once they are full.
FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate another embodiment of a waste sorting
and disposal station 60f in the form of a convertible rolling cart.
In a first orientation, illustrated in FIG. 11, the station 60f
is a two-sided rolling cart. The station 60f of this embodiment
can be provided with a hinge 96 configured to allow the two sides
98a, 98b of the cart 60f to unfold into a one-sided arrangement.
FIG. 11 shows the cart in an unfolded form, so that it may be placed
or mounted against a wall. FIG. 12 shows the cart in a folded form,
and thus suitable for use as a cart.
In some embodiments, a sorting and disposal station 60 can include
a scale configured to determine a weight of a full container. Thus,
a scale 72 can be provided on an upper or other accessible portion
of the station. Alternatively, the station can include a scale (e.g.,
a load cell) to continuously or repeatedly weigh each container
within the station. Such information can be useful in creating a
manifest for the containers before transportation of the containers
to an appropriate disposal facility. Additionally, or alternatively,
a station can include a fill level sensor for continuously or intermittently
determining a fill level of a container. Embodiments of a fill-level
sensor are described in further detail below.
FIG. 32 shows another embodiment of the invention comprising a
wheeled cart 60g, a display 70 (which in some embodiments may be
a touch-screen display), and a barcode scanner 74. The display 70
and barcode scanner 74 are supported by a post 38 of suitable size
and shape to orient the display 70 and scanner 74 for convenient
access by a user.
According to one embodiment, a user holds a pharmaceutical waste
item to be discarded near the scanner 74 and responds to one or
more questions presented on the display 70. Using a database lookup
and a specialized computer algorithm, a CPU then determines the
proper container to receive the waste item. In other embodiments,
the user simply scans the item to be discarded without answering
any questions or inputting any information into the system.
The cart 60g is equipped with a plurality of lids 82. As shown
in FIG. 32, each lid 82 is latched in a closed position by a release
mechanism 62. When a particular lid 82 is directed to open, electronics,
a solenoid, and a spring (not shown) cause the lid 82 to rotate
to an open position revealing a container (not shown) for receiving
the pharmaceutical waste item. Following manual deposit of the item
into the appropriate container, the user closes the lid 82 by applying
hand pressure to a lever 66, which, in one embodiment, is an extension
of the lid 82. The release mechanisms 62 can be protected by covers
68 to prevent tampering with the release mechanisms 62 contained
therein.
The cart 60g is further provided with a deck 42, side skins 44,
and doors 48 to prevent damage resulting from spills and unauthorized
access of the mechanisms 62, internal components, and the containers.
The doors 48 are provided with a key lock 46 so that only authorized
service personnel may change out the containers when full.
A power entry module 36 provides an electrical cord for connection
to a wall outlet for powering the cart and/or charging an internal
battery (not shown). One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize
that other means for supplying power may also be used.
The cart 60g is also equipped with a base 30, wheels 32, and one
or more handles 34 to enable pushing the cart 60g from one location
to another.
In some embodiments, the invention is provided as a wall unit.
FIG. 33 shows one embodiment comprising a wall unit 60h, a display
70 (which in some embodiments may be a touch-screen display), and
a barcode scanner 74. The display 70 and barcode scanner 74 are
oriented for convenient access by a user.
In one embodiment, a user holds a pharmaceutical waste item to
be discarded near the scanner 74 and responds to some questions
presented on the display 70. Using a database lookup and a specialized
computer algorithm, a CPU then determines the proper container to
receive the waste item. In other embodiments, the user simply scans
the item to be discarded, without answering any questions or imputing
any information into the system.
The wall unit 60h is equipped with a plurality of lids 82 arranged
in an array. As shown in FIG. 33, each lid is latched in a closed
position by a release mechanism 62. When a particular lid 82 is
directed to open, electronics, a solenoid, and a spring (not shown)
cause the lid 82 to rotate to an open position revealing a container
(not shown) for receiving the pharmaceutical waste item. Following
manual deposit of the item into the appropriate container, the user
closes the lid 82 by applying hand pressure to a lever 66, which
in one embodiment is an extension of the lid 82. The release mechanisms
62 can be protected by covers 68 to prevent tampering with the release
mechanisms 62 contained therein.
The wall unit 60h is further provided with a deck 42 (one at each
level in the array), side skins 44, and doors 48 to prevent damage
resulting from spills and unauthorized access of the mechanisms
62, internal components, and the containers. The doors 48 are provided
with a key lock 46 so that only authorized service personnel may
change out the containers when full.
The wall unit 60h, in one embodiment, can include an electrical
connection or other means (not shown) for powering the unit and
mounting brackets (not shown) for anchoring the unit 60h to a wall.
FIGS. 34A, 34B and 34C show an embodiment, which may be provided
in cart form or as a wall unit. In one embodiment, a user holds
a waste item to be discarded near a barcode scanner 74. In one embodiment,
using a database lookup and a specialized computer algorithm, a
CPU determines the proper container to receive the waste item. The
waste item can be discarded into the appropriate container after
the corresponding lid 82 has been opened. Once the waste item has
been discarded, the user may push the lid 82 to its default, closed
position.
FIGS. 35a, 35b, and 35c show alternative embodiments of the waste
collection system. FIG. 35a shows a sorting device that is oriented
in a substantially vertical position. FIG. 35b shows a sorting device
that has a plurality of top and side access regions. As in other
embodiments, using a database lookup and a specialized computer
algorithm, a CPU determines the proper container to receive the
waste item. The waste item can be discarded into the appropriate
container after the corresponding lid has been opened. This embodiment
is advantageous in healthcare facilities where available space is
limited. In some embodiments, the sorting device is further provided
with a deck 42, side skins 44 and doors 48 to prevent damage resulting
from spills and unauthorized access of the mechanisms, internal
components and the containers. In one embodiment, the doors 48 are
provided with a key lock 46 so that only authorized service personnel
may change out the containers 80 when full. In some embodiments,
the sorting device may also be equipped with a base 30, wheels 32
and/or one or more handles 34 to enable pushing the cart from one
location to another. FIG. 35c shows alternative embodiments (for
example, alternatives of FIGS. 32 through 35b) in which the waste
identification device (such as barcode scanner 74) is provided as
or on a handheld 73 or other portable device. The display 70 may
be provided as or on the handheld 73 or other portable device. Handheld
embodiments may be used instead of or in addition to waste identification
devices that are attached or fixed to a sorting station or other
location.
In some embodiments, the container lid or other mechanism that
provides access to the interior of the container, may be configured
to open and close automatically. In other embodiments, for safety
purposes, the container lid or other mechanism that provides access
to the interior of the container, may not be capable of closing
automatically. In such embodiments, the user is required to manually
close the lid or other mechanism.
In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 34a, 34b and
34c, the sorting system may be configured to automatically open
a container lid following a barcode scan of the waste item. The
user can then manually close the lid after discarding the waste
item in the container. In one embodiment, the container automatically
opens and closes. In another embodiment, the container automatically
opens and can be closed manually. In yet another embodiment, the
container is operable to be manually opened and closed. In a further
embodiment, the container is opened manually, and closes automatically.
Automatic closure of the container can be based on a pre-determined
time interval. Alternatively, once a waste item is disposed within
the container, the container may use one or more sensors to determine
that the waste has been appropriately discarded, and automatically
closes upon this sensor determination. In yet another embodiment,
the user can communicate to the system (e.g., by pressing a button)
to close the container automatically.
Containers
In some embodiments, the containers are generally designed to be
low cost, yet include features that provide a functional interface
with mechanisms in a sorting station to perform several desired
functions. For example, in some embodiments, each container includes
a door or lid which can be opened and closed automatically in order
to allow or prevent access to a particular container at a particular
time. Additionally, the containers can be configured to interface
with sensors for determining a quantity of contents within the container,
and/or sensors for determining a type of container.
In some embodiments, the containers 80 are blow molded (or otherwise
formed) from polypropylene, high molecular weight polyethylene,
polyvinylchloride or any other suitable plastic or other material
as desired. In some embodiments, the containers 80 have substantially
frosted or translucent side walls. The containers will typically
be sized to have an internal volume of anywhere from 1 to 20 gallons,
however greater or smaller volumes can also be used as desired.
For example, in some particular embodiments, containers can be provided
in 1-gallon, 2-gallon, 3-gallon, 5-gallon, 8-gallon, and 13-gallon
sizes. Other sizes can also be used.
The shape of the containers can vary widely. In some preferred
embodiments, the containers include a lifting handle, a primary
opening which can be automatically and/or manually closed or sealed,
and a bottom surface configured to allow the container to stand
upright. Additionally, the containers can also include features
such as an automatically-openable door or lid, a manually closable
lid, features for accurately locating the container in a container
compartment of a station, a viewing window for visually verifying
fill level, and/or identification information for informing a user
of a container's contents (or intended contents).
The containers can be provided with an opening 88 having a variety
of shapes and/or features. For example, in one embodiment, the opening
88 is substantially circular and has a minimum internal diameter
of at least about three inches (.about.76 mm). In other embodiments,
the opening 88 can be substantially elliptical, rectangular, polygonal
or otherwise shaped, and can be any suitable size, including sizes
smaller than three inches in diameter. The particular type or types
of waste to be deposited in a particular container can be a significant
factor that can be used in determining a suitable size and/or shape
of a container opening. In general, the container opening should
be sized to easily accept the largest waste item that is expected
to be deposited in the container. For example, some containers might
receive full or partially full liter-sized IV bags, gallon-sized
biohazard bags or other large items. It is generally desirable that
the container opening be configured to accept these large items
easily and without tearing the bags or otherwise damaging or causing
spillage of a waste item. The skilled artisan will recognize that
other factors may also affect a choice of container opening size
or shape.
In some embodiments, containers are provided in a plurality of
types, each type corresponding to a respective waste category or
waste classification. In order to allow clinicians, maintenance
people, and any other persons who may handle the containers to quickly
and easily differentiate containers of various types, the containers
can be color-coded to correspond with a particular type or category
of waste. In some embodiments, a color-coding scheme can be selected
to match industry standards for various types of medical waste.
Red, for example, typically signifies infectious waste, while yellow
typically signifies chemotherapeutic waste. Color-coded containers
can advantageously simplify the tasks associated with manual transportation
and processing of the containers, and can aid in ensuring that such
tasks will be handled correctly for each waste stream.
Alternatively, such visual verification of a container's type can
be provided by any other suitable method. For example, the various
container types can be indicated by labels bearing numeric, alphanumeric,
graphical or symbolic information. Such labels can include printed
stick-on labels or various features molded or formed directly into
portions of the containers themselves. If desired, such type-identification
features can be provided in addition to color-coding of the containers
in order to further simplify identification of a container's type.
Providing simple visual verification of a given container's type
advantageously simplifies and facilitates handling of medical waste
materials throughout many aspects of collection and disposal.
In some embodiments, the containers can be configured in such a
way that a sorting and disposal station can automatically identify
a type of container. Such automation allows a station/machine to
detect the mix and arrangement of container types in the station
at any given time. In some embodiments, each container includes
an identification key that can be read by corresponding structures
in a sorting station. The key generally allows the sorting station
to automatically identify the type of each container occupying a
compartment or container position within the station. As discussed
above, the station can be configured to identify container types
in either a static or dynamic mode depending on a desired degree
of flexibility for a given station.
Identification keys may be physical features such as fingers molded
into or attached to each container. Alternatively, identification
keys can be holes, notches, or grooves molded or cut into a portion
of each container. In some embodiments, identification keys include
optically-readable features such as holes, dark or light colored
dots, text, symbols, graphics, etc. A physical key may be configured
to be read by mechanical or optical switches associated with each
compartment or container position within the station. For example,
FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a container 80 with an identification
key 104 made up of a series of holes 110 in a flange 112 extending
from an upper portion of the container 80. The holes 110 of FIG.
13 can be detected by a plurality of optical switches 138 mounted
to a portion of the station adjacent a container position. Thus
the various container types can be identified by providing holes
(or other features) in varying combinations and positions.
Alternatively, a key may be an optical mark, such as a bar code,
that can be interpreted by a sensor such as a bar code reader. Alternatively
still, the key may be a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag
that can be read by a transponder associated with each compartment.
In still further embodiments, container identification keys can
comprise microchips, magnetic strips, or other electronic media
that can be read by a waste sorting and disposal station into which
the container is placed. In one alternative embodiment, a polychromatic
sensitive optical sensor can be provided to directly determine a
color of a container.
As discussed above, some embodiments of a container are provided
with automatically operable doors. In such embodiments, a container
can be closed by default to prevent insertion of items into an incorrect
container. Then, once an item is scanned or otherwise identified,
the station can open the appropriate container or otherwise signify
the single correct container to receive that particular waste item.
FIGS. 14-17 illustrate embodiments of containers comprising integrally-formed
automatically operable doors and corresponding structures in a sorting
station. The illustrated structures are generally configured to
provide an automated interface between a container 80 and portions
of a sorting and disposal station in order to allow the station
to automatically recognize and operate a container. According to
these illustrated embodiments, each compartment includes an actuator
mechanism configured to automatically and selectively open and close
the corresponding container 80. The selective opening and closing
of each container may be accomplished via interaction of structures
on both the container and the station, and can ultimately be controlled
by a computer system within the sorting and disposal station.
In some embodiments, a container may include a movable lid molded
or otherwise joined to the container opening. The lid can generally
be configured to pivot, slide, hinge or rotate relative to a container
in order to reveal or cover the container opening. In some embodiments,
the lid is configured to mate with a mechanical actuator in the
station upon installation of the container in a given container
compartment. The actuator can be configured to allow the lid to
open and close by translating, rotating or pivoting the lid. The
actuator and lid can be further configured to separate from one
another when the container is removed from the station.
FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of an interface between a container
80 and portions of a sorting station. In the illustrated embodiment,
the container 80 comprises a gate 116 covering an opening 88 and
configured to slide in tracks 118 between an open position and a
closed position. The gate 116 can include a latch 120 configured
to lock (e.g., automatically lock) the container opening when the
gate 116 is completely closed. When a new container 80 is inserted
into a station, a drive pin 122 on the gate control arm 124 is engaged
by the gate 116 of container. The control arm 124 is configured
to open and close the gate 116. The gate control arm 124 can be
coupled to a drive motor 128 via a transmission element such as
a disc 132 or a similarly functioning arm. If desired, a position
switch 134 can also be provided on the disc 132, control arm 124,
gate 116 or other component in order to detect a position of the
gate 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the position switch 134
is an optical switch configured to detect one or more holes 136
in the disc 132. Additionally, the sorting station can include a
plurality of optical switches 138 for detecting the presence of
a container and/or the type of container 80 inserted into the sorting
station. The embodiment of FIG. 14 replaces the gate control arm
124 of FIG. 13 with a slot 140 in the gate 116 in order to convert
the rotational motion of the pin 142 extending from the disc 132
into linear motion of the gate 116.
In alternative embodiments, other configurations of automatically
openable doors/gates can be provided. For example, FIG. 15 illustrates
an alternative embodiment of a container comprising a sectioned
door 150 configured to slide along tracks 152 extending from the
exterior surface of the container 80. The slidable lids of the above
embodiments can be provided with a latch (such as that shown in
FIGS. 13 and 14) which can be automatically engaged in order to
lock the container once a sorting station determines the container
is full. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16 can include a slidable
door 116 driven by a rack and pinion drive mechanism 156. Alternatively,
the drive mechanism 156 of FIG. 16 can comprise a driven friction
wheel configured to engage a portion of the slidable lid 116. A
similar pinion or friction wheel drive system can be used to automatically
operate the sectioned door 150 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15.
FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a container 80 with a lid 158
configured to open by pivoting relative to the container 80. In
further alternative embodiments, a door can be opened or closed
by any of a variety of other mechanisms. For example, worm screws,
pneumatic pistons, hydraulic pistons, solenoids, or any other motion-transferring
mechanism can be used to selectively open and close a container
door.
In some embodiments it may also be desirable to provide an outer
lid configured to seal a container opening once the container is
full. The outer lid is preferably configured to attach to the container
sufficiently securely to prevent spillage or tampering. An outer
seal also shields users from contaminants that may have come in
contact with the container top area during use. For example, in
some embodiments a flexible lid can be configured to seal over a
top of the automatically actuated door by frictionally engaging
a lip, groove, or other structure in a manner similar to many flexible
lids used in food storage containers. In alternative embodiments,
outer seals can be provided in the form of a bag or shrink-wrap
material that surrounds a substantial portion of a container's exterior.
In some embodiments, it may be desirable to provide a container
configured to render waste items non-recoverable by providing a
substance within an "empty" container that can react chemically
with waste items. In another embodiment, a solidifying agent can
be provided within a container in order to solidify non-hazardous
pharmaceuticals allowing for their disposal in a landfill. In some
embodiments, such solidifying agents can include materials capable
of absorbing a quantity of a liquid non-hazardous pharmaceutical
material. For example, such absorbent materials can include ceramic
materials, sponge materials or other porous materials. Alternatively,
such solidification may involve a chemical reaction between the
waste material and a substance provided within the container.
Fill-level Detection System
In some embodiments, it is desirable to measure a fill level of
waste within a container throughout the sorting and filling process.
In some embodiments, such fill level sensing can be performed by
measuring a weight of a container, such as by using a load cell,
balance, or other weight measurement device. In further embodiments,
float systems can be adapted for use in determining a level of a
waste material in a waste sorting system. In some cases, it is also
desirable to perform such fill level measurements without the sensor
physically contacting the container or the container contents.
Level sensors are commonly used in many fields to determine a quantity
of a solid or liquid within a container. Three popular level sensors
include floats, sight glasses and ultrasonic systems.
In a float system, a buoyant device or "float" is placed
in the container, where it remains partially submerged in the liquid
retained within the container. The float is used to detect a level
of a fluid in the container by activating a switch located at a
pre-determined point. Alternatively, the float detects the container's
fluid level by activating a potentiometer, which reports the fluid
level over a calibrated range.
Sight glass type level sensors evolved from manual systems in which
an operator observed the level in a container through a transparent
window. Sight glass type sensors which today are implemented using
light sensors, generally require a window through which to project
and receive light.
Ultrasonic fill level sensors direct a beam of ultrasonic energy
toward an object and detect the time delay associated with that
beam of energy reflecting off the object and returning to the sensor.
Thus, the time delay correlates to a particular height of the contents
in the container.
The assignee of the present application also owns technology related
to the optical detection of the level of material in a translucent
plastic waste container. See, e.g., application Ser. Nos. 10/945,223;
10/946,252; 10/946,161; 10/945,773; 10/946,164; 10/946,207; 10/946,208;
and 10/946,054, herein incorporated by reference. As described below,
in some embodiments, measurements are made by illuminating one side
of the container and collecting the light received by an array of
photo detectors located on the opposite side of the container. In
one embodiment, a microprocessor interprets the light received at
the array of receptors, compensates for ambient light and the relative
transmissivity of individual containers, and determines whether
the container is full.
In some embodiments, a piezo transducer can be used to determine
a volume of air remaining in a container by conducting a frequency
sweep of the transducer to determine the resonance of the air in
the container. Once the volume of air in the container is known,
the air volume can be subtracted from the known total container
volume to obtain the volume occupied by the container contents.
In another alternative embodiment, a distance-measuring sensor (such
as SONAR, RADAR or optical distance-measuring sensors) can be located
above and directed through the opening of the container in order
to determine a "height" of the container contents. In
another embodiment, a sensor can be provided for determining whether
a container includes any waste at all. Such a "waste presence"
sensor can be used in combination with a timer to determine a replacement
schedule for a particular container based on a maximum acceptable
dwell time for a particular waste item in a container. Still other
embodiments may use optical sensors to measure a fill level of a
container.
FIGS. 18-19 illustrate one embodiment of a level sensor which can
be used to automatically determine a fill level of a container using
an optical method. As shown in the schematic illustration of FIG.
18, one embodiment of a fill level sensing system comprises a light
source 230 and a light detector 232 positioned on opposite sides
of a container 80. In alternative embodiments, the light detector
232 need not be located immediately opposite the light source, for
example, in some embodiments the detector can be located on a wall
adjacent to the source 230. The sensor system of FIGS. 18 and 19
generally operates on the principle that an "empty" container
will permit more light to pass from the source, through the container,
and to the sensor than will a "full" container. This is
simply due to the fact that the contents of the container 80 will
absorb and/or reflect a substantial portion of the light which enters
the container from a light source.
As used herein, the terms "empty" and "full"
shall be given their ordinary meaning and shall be used to define
relative amounts of debris, or other matter, in a container. For
example, in certain embodiments, the sensor may indicate that the
container is ready to be emptied or discarded, not because it is
completely saturated, but because it has reached the desired point
of fill or saturation. In some situations, it may be desirous to
empty or remove a container when anywhere from about 1% to about
100%, often from about 25% to about 100% of that container contains
waste material. In other situations, it may be desirable to remove
a container when about 50% to about 95% of its volume is occupied
by waste material.
In some other embodiments, a parameter other than weight or filled
volume may be used to determine when a container is "full."
For example, in one embodiment, a sensor to detect radioactivity
is used to determine the amount of radioisotope in a container or
receptacle. The radioactivity sensor may be used in connection with
a fill sensor, or it may be used alone. Thus, in some embodiments,
a container may be emptied, discarded, or replaced based on a certain
amount of radioactivity, rather than (or in addition to) the surface
area, volume, weight, density and/or another parameter of the material
in that container.
In yet another embodiment, a sorting and disposal system can be
provided without any automatic level detection apparatus. For example,
in such an embodiment, the containers can be configured to allow
a clinician, maintenance person, or other user to visually verify
a fill level of the container. In such embodiments, the containers
can be made of a substantially transparent or translucent material.
Alternatively, the containers may be substantially opaque but can
include a transparent viewing window to allow visual verification
of a fill level. Such viewing windows could extend substantially
an entire height of the container, or could extend only a height
of a desired portion of the container.
In some embodiments, the source 230 and detector 232 are located
along a "fill line" which generally defines a "fill
plane." The fill plane 240 is generally the level within the
container 80 which a processor 242 defines as "full."
In some embodiments, the actual free surface of contents within
a container may not necessarily be planar. In such embodiments,
the "fill plane" used by the processor and fill level
sensing system is simply an average height of the material.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18, a light source 230 is
located at a "front" of the container and a detector 232
is located at a "rear" of the container. In alternative
embodiments, the positions of the light source 230 and detector
232 can be reversed, or positioned at any other position around
the container 80. In still further embodiments, multiple sources
and/or detectors can also be used as desired.
As discussed above, the containers 80 are typically made of a translucent
material which allows at least some amount of light to pass through
its walls. The embodiments of a fill level sensor illustrated in
FIGS. 18 and 19 are particularly advantageous when used to measure
a fill level of a container with translucent sidewalls. However,
the skilled artisan will recognize that certain advantages of the
embodiments described herein may be advantageously applied to systems
using containers having transparent sidewalls or containers with
transparent windows in otherwise relatively opaque sidewalls. As
used herein, the term "translucent" is used in its ordinary
sense and refers without limitation to a material which allows the
diffuse transmission of light when illuminated, while remaining
substantially non-transparent when not illuminated.
The light source can comprise any suitable source of light such
as incandescent bulbs, white or colored LED's, or other sources.
In some embodiments, the light source 230 is located such that it
is vertically centered on a desired "fill line" 240 of
the container. The light source can be laterally centered relative
to the container, or can comprise a width that is about as wide
as the container 80. In still further embodiments, a plurality of
light sources can be used to illuminate a container from multiple
points.
As illustrated in FIG. 19, the light detector 232 can comprise
an array of photo detectors 236 such as cadmium sulfide photo detectors
or photodiodes. In the illustrated embodiment, the array of photo
detectors 236 comprises three rows 244, 246 and 248 of detectors
236. The upper row 244 contains a single detector 236 while the
middle 246 and lower 248 rows contain a plurality of detectors 236
(three in the illustrated embodiment). In alternative embodiments,
the upper row 244 can be provided with additional detectors which
equal or exceed the number of detectors in the other rows. Similarly,
the middle 246 and lower 248 rows can include fewer or more than
three detectors as desired. The number of detectors in each row
will typically be determined by the algorithm used to determine
the fill level of the container and/or the degree of accuracy desired.
In some embodiments, it may also be desirable to provide more than
three rows of detectors. For example, in some embodiments, a fill
level detection system can be provided with four, five or more rows
of detectors.
In some embodiments, the middle row of detectors is positioned
to lie just above the fill line 240 of the container 80, and the
lower row 248 of detectors 236 is positioned just below the fill
line 240. The upper row 244 of detectors 236 can be located substantially
above the fill line, and can be used to calibrate the detectors
middle 246 and lower 248 rows as will be described in further detail
below.
In some embodiments, the upper and middle rows can be spaced by
a distance 250 of between about 1/2'' and about 2 inches, in other
embodiments the upper and middle rows can be spaced by a distance
250 of between about 1 inch and about 11/2 inches, and in one particular
embodiment, the upper and middle rows are spaced by a distance 250
of about 11/4 inches. Similarly, the middle and lower rows can be
spaced by a distance 252 of between about 1/2'' and about 2 inches,
in other embodiments, the middle and lower rows can be spaced by
a distance 252 of between about 1 inch and about 11/2 inches, and
in one particular embodiment, the middle and lower rows are spaced
by a distance 252 of about 11/4 inches. In some embodiments, the
detectors 236 of the middle 246 and lower 248 rows are spaced horizontally
by a distance 254 of between about 1/2 inch and about 3 inches,
in other embodiments, the detectors 236 of the middle 246 and lower
248 rows are spaced horizontally by a distance 254 of between about
1 inch and about 2 inches, and in one particular embodiment by a
horizontal distance 254 of about 11/2 inches. In some embodiments,
the sensors are evenly spaced, while in other embodiments, the sensors
of the middle row are horizontally spaced differently than the sensors
of the lower row. In further alternative embodiments, the spacing
of the detectors 236 can be determined by factors such as the size
of the container or the material to be placed within the container.
In operation, the individual photo detectors 236 pick up light
transmitted through the container and output corresponding signals
to a processor 242. On one hand, the light intensity arriving at
the detectors 236 depends on the fill level of the container 80.
In addition, a number of secondary factors also affect the light
intensity reaching the detectors 236. These include the strength
of the light source 230, the color and opacity of the container
80, the amount of ambient light, and other factors such as dust
in the air. The light intensity at the top detector row 244 is almost
completely governed by these secondary factors, since it is located
well above the fill line 240. By contrast, the light intensity arriving
at the middle 246 and lower 248 detector rows will be affected more
by the fill level of the container contents as the container 80
becomes more full (e.g., as the fill level approaches the fill line).
When the container 80 is empty and the overall light intensity
is greatest, a baseline reading is recorded and calibration coefficients
are generated for each of the detectors 236 and detector rows 244,
246, 248. As the container fills, the received light reaching the
detectors decreases slightly as material in the container blocks
a portion of the diffused light transmitted through the container
80. During this phase, the top detector reading is used to compensate
the readings of the middle and lower detector rows accordingly.
When the container contents reach the fill line, the bottom row
of detectors will be blocked by the container contents, while the
middle 246 and upper 248 detector rows remain unobstructed. This
results in a substantial drop in the light intensity reaching the
bottom row 248 of detectors, and correspondingly, a substantial
difference in signal strength between the middle 246 and lower 248
detector rows. When this signal difference reaches a pre-determined
threshold level, the processor determines that the container is
"full."
In some embodiments, the items being deposited into a container
may be stacked unevenly or oddly oriented within a container so
that the contents of a container vary from a neat horizontal fill
level. For example, some large items, such as syringes or other
contaminated medical devices, may stack oddly within a container,
thereby creating voids of unfilled space in a central portion of
a container, above which waste items may be stacked. Such variations
in filling can lead to measurement errors. Thus, in some embodiments,
a level sensing system can be provided with error processing capabilities
to account for variations in orientation and/or uneven loading of
a container.
For example, in some embodiments, the signals from the plurality
of detectors in each row are averaged to provide a consensus value
for the respective detector row. This advantageously allows the
processor to determine an average fill level in the event of an
uneven fill surface. For example, in an idealized case, a container
filled with a plurality of spherical particles through a hole in
the top center of a regularly-shaped container will typically have
a free surface in a shape of a cone with a peak at the center, and
dropping off evenly in each direction. In such a case, the center
detector of the lower row 248 will typically receive a lower light
intensity than the detectors on either side. Thus, by using the
data from all of the detectors in a horizontal row, a processor
can calculate an approximate average fill level in order to prevent
over-filling of the container.
These or other error-processing techniques can also be used to
compensate for manufacturing defects in a container that might result
in erroneous results. For example, if a plastic container wall comprises
an air bubble or a dark spot in a region adjacent one or more of
the detectors, these abnormalities could cause erroneous readings
by those detectors. To compensate for this, a system may give less
weight (or no weight at all) to signals from detectors that are
out of a statistically expected range of variation from the remaining
detectors. By taking an average signal across all detectors in various
combinations and/or by assigning varying weights to individual detectors,
a control algorithm can teach itself to recognize and adapt to such
error-causing situations in order to obtain consistent readings.
In some embodiments, the functionality of a fill level sensing
system employing a light source and a plurality of optical detectors
can advantageously be enhanced by containers with "frosted"
or translucent walls. Another advantage of certain embodiments of
a level sensing system as described herein is that such systems
can be polychromatic sensitive (e.g., configured to sense light
of various colors with consistent accuracy). Thus, in addition to
measuring a fill level of a container, the above-described sensors
can be configured to determine a color of a container (each container
color being associated with a particular container type as discussed
above). In some embodiments, these and other advantages are achieved
through the use of cadmium sulfide photosensitive cells. In alternative
embodiments, optical level sensors can be constructed using other
optical detectors, including other photoconductive cells, photo
diodes, or other sensors capable of detecting light in the visible
or infrared spectrum.
In some embodiments, each one of a plurality of fill-level sensors
is controlled by a single processor in a waste sorting system. In
one embodiment, a plurality of photo detector arrays can be connected
to a single multi-channel bus, and a plurality of light sources
can be controlled by a processor. In this embodiment, the processor
can illuminate a single container at a time. Thus, the detectors
behind each of the "dark" containers would be at high
impedance, and would therefore be out of the circuit,
In some embodiments, a fill level sensing system employing optical
sources and detectors can include an additional photo detector that
is generally configured to measure changes in "ambient"
light within the system in order to appropriately adjust the readings
from the detector arrays measuring fill level. An ambient light
detector can comprise a single optical detector, or a plurality
of detectors in a circuit. In one such embodiment, an additional
ambient light detector is provided within a waste sorting system
in a location selected to measure any light entering the system
from the exterior of the sorting system. For example, the ambient
light detector can be located adjacent a container-replacement door
or any other portion of the system that is open to external light.
In one embodiment, optical detectors may be located on opposite
sides of a container, or on the same side of the container.
FIG. 22A illustrates one embodiment of a circuit schematic which
can be used in building an optical fill level sensor such as that
illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19. The skilled artisan will recognize
that this is merely one exemplary schematic, and that alternative
embodiments of the system of FIGS. 18 and 19 can be built using
any appropriate components.
FIGS. 20-22 are flow charts illustrating embodiments of software
algorithms used by a level detector for use in a sorting system.
FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating an overview of a level testing
algorithm. When the system determines that a new container has been
inserted, the level sensor establishes new baseline values for the
detectors in order to define the "empty" state. The level
sensing system then reads values of the detectors 236 and inputs
the detector values to an inference engine (FIGS. 21 and 22).
The inference engine can use a "fuzzy logic" method similar
to the Sugeno method. In one embodiment, the inference engine uses
a table of empirically-determined data to establish rule weights.
The inference engine can also use multiple grouping of detectors
in addition to individual detector levels to calculate a final fill
level of the container. In some embodiments, the empirically-determined
lookup table can be developed by performing various calibration
experiments using an optical level sensing system to measure containers
at known fill levels. In addition to any controlled experiments,
the lookup table can be supplemented by analysis of information
it receives during use in measuring fill levels of new containers.
For example, as optical anomalies are detected and accounted for,
the software can adapt to correct for them.
FIGS. 21 and 22 are flow charts illustrating one embodiment of
an inference engine. In order to avoid misleading readings during
filling, the system can be configured to determine when the detectors
are at a steady state (e.g., when the movement of waste within the
container drops below a threshold level). This is particularly helpful
in embodiments in which a waste material is a liquid, and thus may
continue moving for a period of time.
Once steady state is reached, the inference engine compares the
values of the detector readings and ultimately derives a final fill
value which can be stored and/or output to a user-readable device
such as a liquid crystal display. In alternative embodiments, an
output of the system can include other visible, audible or tactile
alerts, such as LEDs, buzzers, bells, vibrators, etc. In some embodiments,
an output signal is used to notify the user that a particular container
is ready to be emptied, discarded, replaced etc. In an alternative
embodiment, an output signal is provided substantially continuously
or at various intervals, so that the user can determine or monitor
the amount of material in a given container at any given time. For
example, in some embodiments, the fill-level of a container can
be measured at regular intervals, such as every ten minutes, every
hour, every two hours, every six hours, every 12 hours, or every
24 hours. In still further embodiments, the system can comprise
a sensor (such as an optical sensor) to determine when an item is
deposited into a container. Then a fill-level of the container can
be measured after each item is deposited in the container.
FIG. 23 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a video fill level
sensing system. The embodiment of FIG. 23 employs a camera 270 to
continuously detect an intensity of light exiting the container
from the source. In the illustrated embodiment, a light source 272
is positioned to illuminate the container 80, and a curved mirror
274 and pinhole video camera are located adjacent another side of
the container 80. The system can also include a software-based processor
276 and other electronic hardware. In the illustrated embodiment,
the light source 270 is located adjacent one vertical side of the
container 80 and the camera and mirror are positioned on the opposite
side of the container. In alternative embodiments, the light source
270 and camera/mirror assembly can be located on adjacent sides
of the container 80. Alternatively still, the light source 270 can
be located above the container such that light is directed downward
into the container, thereby allowing the waste to absorb as well
as reflectively diffuse the light source onto the walls of the container
80.
In some embodiments, the camera 270 is directed at the mirror 274
to detect light emitted from the container 80 and gathered by the
mirror 274. The curved mirror 274 provides a linearization of scanline
width by distorting the optics of the camera. In one embodiment,
the camera 270 is a pinhole camera, which is selected due to the
depth of field this type of lens provides. In one embodiment, the
curved mirror 274 has a shape substantially similar to a shoehorn,
e.g., it is curved about two perpendicular axes (e.g., longitudinal
and transverse axes). Alternative mirror configurations can also
be used as desired. The particular curvature of the mirror 274 is
determined empirically depending on the width of scanline needed
and the height of the measured area (e.g., the height of the container
wall). Variation in the curvature of the mirror along its length
allows the scanline to be optimized in order to emphasize areas
of higher interest and to de-emphasize lower interest areas. The
mirror can be convexly curved at the height of higher interest areas,
and concavely curved to de-emphasize lower interest areas.
In some alternative embodiments, the light source can include bands
of varying color or intensity along the height of the container
in order to provide emphasis to portions of the container, or to
provide "watermark" levels that can be measured against.
In some embodiments, the software can be configured to interpret
information received from the camera to learn about points of interest
in order to further optimize a measurement algorithm. For example,
rather than programming an algorithm to anticipate areas of higher
or lower interest, the algorithm can be configured to recognize
variations in light intensity during calibration in order to detect
such areas of higher or lower interest.
The processor and its support hardware provide the sampling of
multiple luminance intensities along the wall of the container 80
adjacent the mirror 274. The analog video signal is amplified and
ground-referenced by the video amplifier. This amplified signal
is scanned for a selected scanline to digitize for quantifying its
luminance value. The amplified video is also applied to the Sync
Separator module, which produces timing pulses for the scanline
selector module. The processor receives the scanline data from the
scanline selector, digitizer and sync separator. The video level
sensor can determine a current fill level of the waste in the container
80 using a similar software method to that described above with
reference to FIGS. 18 and 19. FIG. 23A illustrates one embodiment
of a circuit schematic which can be used in building a video fill
level sensor such as that illustrated in FIG. 23. The skilled artisan
will recognize, however, that this is merely one exemplary embodiment.
In alternative embodiments, the system of FIG. 23 can be built using
any appropriate components.
Many of the above embodiments of fill level sensors were described
with reference to a single container. In some alternative embodiments,
it may be desirable to provide a single fill level detection system
configured to selectively measure a fill level of any one of a plurality
of containers. For example, in one embodiment, a light source may
be provided on a first side of a plurality of containers, and a
light detector can be movable into a position opposite the light
source of the containers. In one embodiment, this may take the form
of a circular arrangement of containers in which a light detector
is located at a center of a circular arrangement of containers.
One or more light sources can be positioned on an outer portion
of the circular arrangement such that the light source and/or the
light detector is capable of measuring a fill level of each one
of the plurality of containers around the circle.
In some embodiments, the sorting system can also include a weight
scale (such as a load cell, pressure transducer, mechanical scale
or other device) configured to weigh either a single spent drug,
container or individual segregated spent drugs. In one embodiment,
the information from the scale can be sent to a printer providing
a means for printing a manifest for the container. Additionally,
such information could be combined with other information available
to a clinician in order to determine a quantity of a drug or substance
that has been used or consumed. Many hospitals are automating the
dispensing of drugs. The automation is usually embodied in a piece
of equipment that a doctor or nurse accesses with a patient and
clinician code and the correct amount of drug is dispensed. The
automation provides pharmacists, nurses, doctors and administrators
with information from a database on what drugs are dispensed and
to which patient. These systems can typically indicate how much
of a drug was administered, but entering this information typically
requires a clinician to return to the dispenser (which may be inconvenient,
and thus not done regularly). This information can be quite useful
because it will demonstrate any inefficiencies or mistakes in administrating
the drugs as well as point out any theft of drugs. In some embodiments,
a sorting and disposal system can be configured to track dispensing
information because at the point of throwing the spent drug away,
they are automatically providing information to a central database.
In another embodiment, the invention comprises one or more level
sensors, wherein the level sensor comprises a bar, wherein the bar
is periodically adapted to pass through a container at approximately
the fill level. In one embodiment, a position indicator (or other
visual indicator) coupled to the bar is also provided, wherein movement
of the bar causes movement of the position indicator. In some embodiments,
the position indicator may be comprised of a physical flag. In one
embodiment, a detector adapted to detect movement of the position
indicator is also provided. Thus, in one embodiment, the invention
detects movement of the bar, thereby sensing the level of waste
in a container. The position indicator can be fixed, tied, attached,
connected, or otherwise coupled to the bar. Physical contact between
the position indicator and bar is not needed.
In one embodiment, the container comprises a level sensor that
comprises a bar, wherein the bar is adapted to pass through the
container. In one embodiment, a photo-detector adapted to detect
movement of the bar is also provided, thereby sensing the level
of waste in a container. A position indicator, or other mechanism,
may also be coupled to the bar for detection by the photo-detector.
The photo-detector can be adapted to either detect transmission
of light or to detect the absence of transmission. Thus, in some
embodiments, the photo-detector can be a photo-interruptor. One
of skill in the art will understand that several optical sensors
can be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
One of skill in the art will also understand that non-optical sensors
(such as mechanical sensors, electrical sensors, and acoustic sensors)
may also be used in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
For example, mechanical sensors, electrical sensors, and/or acoustic
sensors may be used to detect the movement of the bar, and thus
detect the level of waste in a container.
In yet another embodiment, a method of detecting the level of material
in a hazardous waste container is provided. In one embodiment, the
method comprises passing a bar through the container at the approximate
fill level, wherein the bar is coupled to a position indicator (or
other mechanism), wherein the position indicator (or other mechanism)
activates a photo-interruptor to determine whether the container
is full. The method further comprises detecting whether the bar
is free to move or is blocked by the contents, thereby detecting
the level of material in a hazardous waste container.
In a further embodiment, a method of detecting the level of material
in a hazardous waste container (opaque or translucent) by passing
a bar through the container is provided. In one embodiment, the
bar is passed at the approximate fill level and a detector is used
to determine whether the bar is free to move or is blocked by the
contents. A position indicator fixed (or otherwise coupled) to the
bar activates a photo-interruptor, to detect the end position and
determine whether the container is full. The bar operates in conjunction
with a lid, that excludes access to the contents of the container.
The lid may also have a position indicator and photo-interruptor
for determining its position.
Some embodiments of the present invention can also be used for
receptacles containing materials other than medical or pharmaceutical
waste. Thus, in some embodiments, the level sensor can be used with
non-medical, non-pharmaceutical containers, holders, or vessels.
The level sensor apparatus, in one embodiment, comprises a bar,
a position indicator tied to the bar, a photo detector, and processing
electronics. The level sensor apparatus, in one embodiment, is used
to determine when a container is full, thereby necessitating the
need for action, such as emptying or replacing the container. The
level sensor apparatus, in one embodiment, is directed at the problem
of level detection in hazardous waste containers. In one embodiment,
the level sensor comprises a bar, induced under spring force (or
other force) to pass through a container approximately at the fill
level. The bar is activated periodically, such as when the container
lid is operated. Since the bar may come into contact with hazardous
waste, it may become soiled in use or otherwise contaminated. In
a preferred embodiment, the bar is part of the container, so that
it may be disposed, or cleaned for reuse, along with the container.
In another embodiment, a position indicator (or similar feature),
is coupled to the bar, so that movement of the bar causes movement
of the position indicator. In a preferred embodiment, the position
indicator resides outside the container, so that the associated
detecting means are not in contact with the hazardous waste. However,
one of skill in the art will understand that the position indicator
may also be located within the container. The position indicator
can be fixed, tied, attached, connected, or otherwise coupled to
the bar. However, physical contact between the position indicator
and bar is not needed. Moreover, one of skill in the art will understand
that a position indicator is simply provided in one exemplar embodiment,
and therefore, other indicators can also be used.
In one embodiment, a photo-interruptor, or other detecting means,
is utilized to detect movement of the position indicator. In a preferred
embodiment, the detector is situated on the outside the container,
so that it is not in contact with the hazardous waste. However,
one of skill in the art will understand that the detector may also
be located within the container.
In one embodiment, the bar is released at intervals to sweep across
the container. In a preferred embodiment, the bar operates each
time the lid is opened. The bar can operate in a horizontal, circular,
or other motion. In a preferred embodiment, the lid and bar are
both rotary, and share a common axis. Thus, both the lid and bar
describe a circular motion as they rotate from the closed to the
open position.
In one embodiment, the opening forces may be applied by compression,
extension, or torsion springs, or by other motive forces, such as
a torque motor. In a preferred embodiment, the spring forces are
provided by torsion springs.
In one embodiment, the lid may be closed manually, by a motor,
or by other means. In a preferred embodiment, the lid is closed
manually. In one embodiment, in the closed position, the lid and
bar are restrained by one or more latches, which control the opening
of the lid by opposing the opening spring force. In a preferred
embodiment, the lid is latched, and the bar is in turn restrained
by the lid by an interfering stop. Thus, the latch reacts to the
sum of the two spring forces. In one embodiment, when the door opens,
the latch releases the lid, and both the lid and bar open simultaneously
under independent spring forces. In one embodiment, as the lid is
rotated closed, the bar remains in contact with the lid and is pushed
along ahead of it the lid until the latch clicks into the closed
position. As the lid rotates open, the bar follows the rotation
of the lid.
In yet another embodiment, if the container is not full, the lid
and bar both complete their full excursion and arrive at the open
position. If the container is full, the lid rotates open, but the
motion of the bar is impeded by the container contents, and cannot
reach the open position. Thus, according to one embodiment, the
bar photo-interruptor remains unactivated, and the circuit detects
a full container.
Other embodiments that incorporate one or more level sensors are
described below, in conjunction with restricted access containers.
Sorting Algorithm
Embodiments of a pharmaceutical waste sorting and disposal system
will generally employ a waste sorting algorithm to assign each item
of waste to a particular waste category and correspondingly to a
particular waste container. A waste sorting algorithm can take a
variety of forms, and can include a range of functionalities.
In some embodiments, as discussed above, determination of the waste
categories themselves can depend on a number of factors, including
RCRA hazardous waste definitions, state and federal EPA regulations,
OSHA regulations, and any institution-specific regulations. For
example, RCRA definitions generally include a P list, a U list and
four characteristics of hazardous waste: ignitability, corrosivity,
toxicity and reactivity. Materials exhibiting each of these characteristics
typically call for different handling, treatment and/or disposal.
Thus, in some cases waste categories can be defined based on groups
of materials that require the same or similar handling, treatment,
or disposal. However, in some cases, two materials that may be handled
and/or treated in a similar manner might react adversely if they
are combined with one another. Thus, in further embodiments, determination
of the waste categories can also depend on the combinability of
materials exhibiting one or more of the above characteristics.
Once a series of unique waste categories is established, lists
of known pharmaceuticals, chemicals, materials and waste items can
be selectively assigned to at least one of the waste categories.
In some embodiments, as discussed above, when a waste item is presented
to a sorting station, the item is identified according to a waste
item identifier. Such identifiers can include a trade name, a generic
name, a National Drug Code (NDC), one or more components or ingredients
of the item, or any other sufficiently unique or relevant waste-identifying
datum. Thus, a category database can be developed which correlates
a number of known waste identifiers with respective waste categories
according to existing federal, state, local, institution-specific
or other rules and regulations.
In some embodiments, it may also be desirable to provide a database
which lists ingredients of a plurality of known pharmaceuticals
or other chemicals that have not yet been correlated to a waste
category by the category database. Such an ingredient database can
be used by the sorting algorithm in an intermediate step between
identifying an item and assigning the item to a category on the
basis of one or more ingredients. In some embodiments, an ingredient
database may reside within the waste sorting and disposal system.
In alternative embodiments, an ingredient database can reside at
a remote location, such as on a server operated by a manufacturer
of a particular item, or another remote location. The waste sorting
and disposal system can be configured to access such remote databases
via any available network, including the internet. In some embodiments,
the remote or local databases may receive updates to maintain the
sorting process current. In some embodiments, the updating occurs
periodically based on a predetermined time interval (e.g., once
every 24 hrs, week, month, etc.). In another embodiment, the updating
occurs when a user prompts the system for an update. In yet another
embodiment, the updating occurs when the system encounters a waste
item for which no appropriate waste classification can be found.
In some embodiments, on a first level, assignment of waste items
to waste categories can be performed simply by sorting the items
according to known characteristics. In some embodiments, a waste
sorting algorithm simply involves locating a waste item identifier
in a look-up table or database which lists known identifiers correlated
to respective waste categories, such as the category database described
above. Thus, to the extent that an item can be assigned to a waste
category based solely on one or more waste item identifiers, the
sorting algorithm can comprise a simple look-up routine. If needed,
the sorting algorithm may also seek additional information such
as from the ingredient database described above, or any other available
source of additional information.
Cases may arise where a single waste item possesses two or more
waste identifiers (such as ingredients) belonging to two or more
different waste categories. Thus, in the event that a particular
waste item can reasonably be assigned to two or more waste categories,
yet is only physically capable of being placed in a single container,
the waste sorting algorithm can be configured to assign the item
to a single category by reviewing a number of secondary variables.
Such secondary variables may include a dosage or quantity of specific
ingredients; a dilution or concentration level of one or more ingredients;
a relative hazardousness level of one or more specific ingredients;
a relative reactiveness of one or more ingredients; a shape, size,
type or other feature of a waste item container (e.g., a pill bottle,
syringe, etc); a physical property of the item (e.g., liquid, solid
or gas), or any other datum that may be available to a user, but
that might not be automatically determinable by the sorting station.
If such a piece of additional information is needed in order to
complete an assignment of an item to a container, the sorting station
can prompt a user to input further information. Such additional
information can be input by selecting from multiple answer choices
or by typing.
FIG. 24 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a sorting
algorithm. In the illustrated embodiment, a user initiates the process
by presenting 300 a waste item to be identified by the sorting station.
The sorting station then detects 302 a waste item identifier in
any manner discussed above, such as scanning a barcode, reading
an RFID tag, or scanning a textual or graphic label. The system
then searches 304 the category database using any information or
identifier determined from the item in an attempt to discover whether
the determined identifier has previously been correlated to a waste
category. If the identifier is found 306 to have been correlated
to a waste category, the system continues by assigning the item
to the appropriate waste category, and facilitating disposal of
the item in the appropriate container.
On the other hand, if the identifier is not found in the category
database (e.g., if the system discovers that the determined waste
item identifier is insufficient to determine an appropriate waste
category), the system may search an ingredient database 308 for
additional information or further details about the item. If additional
information is found 320 in an ingredient database, the additional
information, along with the originally-detected waste item identifier
can be used to again search the category database 322. If this information
is found to be sufficient 324 to assign the item to a waste category,
then the system assigns the item 326 to that category, determines
an appropriate container 328 and facilitates disposal 330 of the
item in a container associated with the assigned category. The system
can also store 340 the identifier/category assignment combination
in the category database for use in accelerating the sorting of
future waste items with the same identifier.
However, if the search of the ingredient database yields insufficient
information to assign the item to a waste category, the system may
seek additional information by prompting a user 342 to input additional
information. Such a prompt may request specific information, such
as a choice between known alternatives, or may be more general in
nature. The information received 344 from the user can then be combined
with previously-obtained information about the item, and the category
database can again be searched in an attempt to assign the item
to a category. If this information, in combination with the previously-obtained
information, is sufficient to assign the item to a waste category
346, then the system assigns the item 326 and facilitates disposal
330 of the item in the appropriate container. As above, the system
can also store 340 the identifier/category assignment combination
in the category database for use in accelerating the sorting of
future waste items with the same identifier.
If the information received 344 from the user is insufficient 346
for the system to make a category assignment, the system can either
prompt the user for still more information 342, or the system can
simply assign 350 the item to the most conservative waste category
for disposal of the item as hazardous waste.
FIG. 25 illustrates one embodiment of a portion of a sorting algorithm
which can be used in determining the best container for a particular
item. Once the sorting algorithm has assigned an item to a waste
category, the system determines 328 the container type associated
with the assigned waste category. In the illustrated embodiment,
the station searches the stock of the containers currently loaded
into that station to determine whether the assigned container type
is present in that particular sorting station 360. If the container
type is present, the station proceeds to indicate 362 the appropriate
container to the user, and the user may then deposit 330 the item
into the selected container. However, in some embodiments, if the
selected container type is not present, the station can assess 366
whether another sorting station nearby contains a container of the
assigned type. If a station with the selected container is nearby,
the system can direct the user 370 to the nearby station to deposit
the item. If a station with the selected container type is not nearby,
the system can re-assign 368 the waste item to the most conservative
(e.g., the highest level hazardous waste) category for which a container
is loaded into the station.
In an alternative embodiment, a station may indicate that the selected
container is full and thus cannot accept any further waste items.
In such a case, the station can instruct the user to replace the
container with an empty one of the same type. Alternatively, the
station can instruct the user to use a container in a nearby station.
In some embodiments, the station may offer the user a choice between
replacing a container and using a nearby station.
The term "nearby" is a relative term, and can include
any actual distance deemed appropriate by a particular user or system
administrator. For example, in some embodiments, a station located
on another floor of the hospital may be considered nearby, while
in other embodiments, a sorting station across the hallway may not
be considered nearby for the purposes of re-directing disposal of
the waste item.
In some embodiments it may be inappropriate or undesirable to re-assign
an item to a higher level container in the event that an appropriate
waste category cannot be determined (e.g., as in step 350 of FIG.
24), or that an appropriate container cannot be located within an
acceptable proximity (e.g., in step 368 of FIG. 25). In such embodiments,
it may be desirable to provide a temporary holding space for items
that cannot be placed in any currently present container to the
extent allowed by regulations governing satellite storage of hazardous
waste. Such items can then be analyzed at a later time by a hazardous
waste analyst in order to determine the most appropriate disposal
of the item. Once such an analysis is performed, the analyst preferably
enters such information into the category database in order to facilitate
future sorting of items having similar characteristics.
In some embodiments, the waste sorting software can be configured
to maintain a log file of all identified waste items and the categories/container
to which each item was assigned. Such information can be used by
hospital administrators, regulatory auditors, pharmacists, or other
entities to determine what items were disposed of and how. This
information can be used to further optimize the sorting algorithm,
to audit compliance with regulations, to audit usage or disposal
of specific items, to alter a container arrangement in a station
to increase sorting efficiency, or any of a variety of other purposes.
By enlisting the use of one or more embodiments of the present
system, hospitals can demonstrate to their communities and their
staff that they are participating in the improvement of the environment.
It has been demonstrated by the US Geological Survey that the groundwater
in the United States is contaminated with drugs. Although in trace
amounts, the cumulative effect of these contaminants have been shown
to be endocrine system disrupters contributing to the rise in cancers,
birth defects and other ailments. By properly sorting the spent
drugs into appropriate containers, the waste can be properly processed
in order to leave only an inert residue that cannot contaminate
the ground water.
Thus, embodiments of a medical waste sorting and disposal system
advantageously provide a convenient means for clinicians to automatically
sort pharmaceutical waste streams in order to comply with RCRA without
the need to manually classify and sort each item individually. Additionally,
the system advantageously provides hospitals with a means for participating
in the improvement of the environment while avoiding fines for non-compliant
waste disposal methods.
Additionally, as described above, some embodiments of the system
can be configured to create a manifest to provide administrators
suitable tracking information on the amount of a drug that has been
actually used. Many hospitals are now moving toward implementing
drug dispensing automation. The automation provides the hospital
pharmacist and administrator information on what drugs are dispensed
but not a convenient way of generating information on how much of
a drug is used.
Medical Waste Treatment System
In one embodiment, a medical waste treatment system is provided.
The medical waste treatment system is a product that renders infectious
waste non-infectious, compacts it to a fraction of the original
volume and uniquely maintains the treated material in a compact
form. The cost of present embodiments of a medical waste treatment
system is much less than competing technologies, because the footprint
of the equipment is, in one embodiment, about one fourth the size.
Competing technologies have cycle times that are long (usually about
one hour) which necessitate large vessels for acceptable throughput
versus the medical waste treatment system which has a cycle time
of less than five minutes.
In one embodiment, the operating cost goal (about $0.09/lb) will
be equal or better than most common technology, autoclave sterilization.
Other competing technologies may have lower operating costs but
they have many drawbacks. Incinerators may be one option, but it
is possible that the EPA may tighten regulations and force many
of the remaining incinerators to shut down. Many states do not allow
incinerators to operate within their boundaries. For example, much
of California's infectious waste is trucked to a Kansas City incinerator.
The transportation costs add to the actual operating costs. Plasma
technologies have equipment costs that are very high ($1-$3 million)
and are, therefore, only suitable for central processing plants.
In one embodiment, a medical waste treatment system as a truck
mounted service to hospitals is provided. The medical waste treatment
system has significant advantages over truck mounted chemical processors.
The medical waste treatment system unlike the chemical processors
has a residue that is substantially innocuous such as common sand.
It has been demonstrated that if there are any concentrations of
organic matter, such as blood, the chemicals tend to be consumed
by the organics leaving some of the remaining waste in a load untreated
or partially treated. In one embodiment, the medical waste treatment
system uses a unique heat technology that quickly and uniformly
decontaminates the waste regardless of the amount of organics present.
In several embodiments, the heat technology comprises use of sand
or wax (including, but not limited to, paraffin) or a combination
thereof. In one embodiment, the sand and/or wax is heated to a temperature
of about 150.degree. C. to about 250.degree. C., preferably between
about 165.degree. C. to about 225.degree. C. In one embodiment,
the sand and/or wax is heated for less than about five minutes.
One particular advantage of this method is the ability to produce
highly stiff and/or compacted medical waste. In some embodiments,
the volume and/or surface area of the treated medical waste is reduced
to about 1/10 of its original size.
In addition to truck mounted systems, stand alone versions of the
system or a central off-site processing unit can be made available
for hospital purchase. In this way, infectious waste can be treated
efficiently.
Up to about 50% of infectious medical waste can be plastic, of
which about 25% can include disposable PVC waste. Utilizing sand
or wax to treat such plastic waste may not be any more cost effective
than an autoclave or other processing approach for these materials.
It also may cause a number of problems such as the PVC outgassing
chlorine because the temperature may be greater than 320.degree.
F. (the effective melting temperature of PVC).
Thus, in one embodiment, a potential processing system for such
plastic waste includes a rough grinder to grind the heterogeneous
infectious medical waste into 2'' by 5'' strips. A second grinder
grinds the waste into small pellets that are less than 0.25'' in
diameter. The waste pellets are mixed with a whitening agent and
moisture that in the presence of UVC and/or UVA will cause an oxidative
reaction which in turn will denature protein or organics, thereby
inactivating some if not all of the microorganisms or spores present
in the pelletized waste. This will set up the microorganisms and
spores for a shorter sterilization procedure.
In some embodiments, the moisture can be removed by a dryer and
then conveyed to a hopper of a plastic extruder. The extruder can
be set to temperature less than 320 degrees F. but hot enough to
melt the PVC. Plasticizers and other additives may be introduced
to get the heterogeneous pelletized mix of waste to flow homogeneously
and not clump or dissociate. This process is also the final sterilization
procedure. Many of the states have adopted a document called the
STAAT II (and soon STAAT III) sterilization guideline that spells
out the amount of reduction of spores and microorganisms required
for sterilization.
In some embodiments, the effluent from this plastic-treating process
could then be used as a filler for a product that is extruded into
useful products rather than being placed in a landfill. Reducing
disposal of solid waste is desirable because of the disposal cost
(0.02 to 0.05 cents per pound). In one embodiment, the effluent
can be used in the manufacture of fence posts and building materials.
For example, the effluent may be used for a security fence that
is composed of a hollow extrusion that forms posts and walls. Extruded
hospital waste may provide such hollow extrusions with more weight
and structural integrity than wood. In another embodiment, multiple
compressed Mylar sheets may be applied to the exterior of the fence
to provide additional benefits (e.g., rendering the wall bullet
resistant or proof).
Other embodiments are possible, for example freeway dividers, caskets,
asphalt filler for roads or any proprietary design that incorporates
previously extruded hollow profiles that are filled with the extruded
sterilized infectious medical waste can be used.
Medical Waste-water Monitoring System
In one embodiment, a medical waste water management system is provided.
In one embodiment this system is a water quality sampling service
that is supplied to hospitals, clinics and labs. The product would
be installed at the P trap of a sink. The medical waste-water monitoring
system would sense water draining and a sample of water would be
directed to a cuvette on a carousel. The samples could be taken
randomly or in some predetermined sequence at a number of different
sinks throughout a facility. The carousel of cuvettes would be removed,
and then sent to an inside or outside lab for analysis. The analysis
would pinpoint the location of any water pollution. Training classes
to reinforce the proper disposal of pharmaceuticals are provided
according to one embodiment of the invention. The service would
continue on a less frequent basis once clinician habits had improved.
Despite a plethora of federal, state and local regulations, many
clinicians continue to inappropriately dispose of pharmaceuticals
in the sink. This is especially true of pharmaceutical spiked IV
fluids. Verification of this practice has been established in a
recent market research effort with 150 hospitals in which 60% of
the respondents admitted to inappropriate disposal of drugs down
the drain.
One advantage of several embodiments of this system is that it
can pinpoint the source of the infraction. By combining this service
along with the other products and services owned by the assignee
of the present application will provide valuable improvement and
advantages.
Air Quality Monitoring System
The air quality monitoring system is a service that utilizes a
device to sample the air quality, primarily in the pharmacy, oncology
and operating room areas. It is intended to detect hazardous drugs
including chemotherapeutics and anesthetics that become volatilized.
The service is intended to provide clinicians with drug specific
air quality information. The service will also suggest ways of eliminating
the contaminants with both devices and a change in protocol. One
advantage of some embodiments of this approach is that drug specific
information that can be obtained.
Hospital Hazard Prevention
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, hospitals and nursing
facilities are among the most hazardous work environments. Each
year, an average of seven occupational injuries or illnesses out
of 100 employees occurs. About half result in lost work time. Working
with or exposure to toxic chemicals is the single largest contributing
risk factor associated with occupational injury and illness in healthcare
Although nanoemulsion disinfectants and microfiber materials for
cleaning and disinfection have worked successfully to reduce toxicity,
much opportunity remains to improve the hospital environment, making
it safer for the healthcare worker. Reducing hospital hazards will
also result in savings to the hospital.
In one embodiment, a system for a service to analyze and implement
reductions in hospital hazards is provided. Implementing the solutions
with hospital personnel will be a process similar to making cost
reductions in organizations with significant numbers of administrative
procedures.
Handheld Devices
In one embodiment, the waste sorting device comprises a computer,
barcode scanner, memory, and wireless communication connected or
coupled to an array of containers with automated opening means.
In order to address anticipated cost concerns, less expensive means
of sorting medical waste have been considered. One embodiment of
a low-cost medical waste sorting system and method comprises the
use a wireless handheld computer or similar wireless device having
a barcode scanner. Such a wireless device can be used to scan waste
items and determine the waste classification of the item being discarded.
In one embodiment, the scanner communicates with an array of collection
containers (either directly, via the system's control unit or via
some other system component) using an infrared (IR) light beam (similar
to that used by television or stereo remotes). The IR beam causes
the correct container to open. This approach has the potential of
redistributing hardware costs in a more favorable way. Thus, in
one embodiment, the cost of the container array is reduced by implementing
the IR receiver and container controls in dedicated electronics.
Of course those of skill in the art will recognize that the handheld
computer or device may communicate with the other components of
the sorting system in various other hardwired and wireless ways,
including, but not limited to, Ethernet, cable, radio frequency
identification (RFID), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc. Likewise, in another
embodiment, hardware costs may be reduced as the necessary portable
devices are issued to personnel rather than being dedicated to particular
room locations. For example, the handheld computer count can average
1 per nurse rather than 1 per room. Since there are generally many
more rooms than nurses in a particular healthcare facility, significant
cost savings (e.g., 3 to 5 fold per one embodiment of the invention)
are envisioned for the computing, wireless communication and bar
code scanning hardware.
In another embodiment, costs are further reduced by displaying
the waste item information on the screen of the handheld computer.
The user can then place the item in the appropriate conventional
waste container. Under such embodiments, where each nurse or other
individual responsible for discarding waste must be equipped with
his or her own handheld computer, the cost of the automated container
array are avoided. Some embodiments also allow leveraging existing
handheld computer hardware, if used, by placing Eco-Rex.TM. or other
drug information software on a multi-purpose handheld computer,
such as those used for barcode medication administration. A handheld
device is particularly advantageous in certain embodiments because
it permits the use of waste containers situated within, coupled
to, or in communication with a wall unit. Wall units used in conjunction
with handhelds may be more economical and cost-effective for certain
healthcare institutions.
In some embodiments, handheld devices may facilitate disposal of
waste items by indicating to the user, via a display, the closest
disposal location for that particular waste item. For example, in
one embodiment, a user may use his or her handheld device to scan
a medical waste item while in a patient's room. In one embodiment,
the handheld device and the facility may be equipped with the appropriate
wireless technology to enable the system to determine the current
location of the user. Thus, the display on the handheld device may
be configured to locate the closest suitable waste container capable
of handling the particular waste item. In other embodiments, the
system may use level sensing and/or container sensing means to direct
the user to the appropriate waste container. The handheld system
may be well-suited to track multiple features of drug administration
and/or personnel. For example, if handheld units are associated
with a specific individual, the institution may be able to monitor
drug administration and disposal on an individual basis. Whether
handheld or not, some embodiments of the present invention may be
particularly useful for monitoring the percentage of hospital drugs
that are properly disposed.
Container Sensing
One feature of some embodiments of the invention is the ability
to automatically detect containers. Knowledge of whether or not
a container is present allows the device to disable a bay that is
not populated with a container. In another embodiment, each container
is also provided with a machine-readable pattern that is applied
to the container surface by a label or the like. One embodiment
of different machine-readable patterns for containers is shown in
FIG. 26.
In one embodiment, when a bay is empty, the machine will know not
to direct waste to that bay. However, when a bay is occupied, the
device, using the information provided by the machine-readable pattern,
will correctly identify the container and direct the waste accordingly.
In another embodiment, containers can be "hot-swapped,"
(e.g., changed from one bay to another during use, and the device
will register the order or position of the containers and/or container
positions. In one embodiment, the system instantly registers the
container mix and/or container positions.
In one embodiment in which the device is capable of identifying
containers, usage information can be collected and used to implement
a use-fee based payment schedule.
In another embodiment, the usage information can be used to detect
improper or unauthorized disposal of waste into the containers by
comparing the accumulated machine usage data to corresponding data
retained by the particular facility (e.g., sales figures). Another
advantage of some embodiments involves the ability to track container
change out, storage time, and usage information.
In one embodiment, the containers are manufactured using common
tooling techniques known in the art and injection moldings that
are made with a single color (e.g., white). Container types may
be distinguished for human recognition using color coded labels.
In other embodiments, specialized tooling is used. In yet another
embodiment, containers are manufactured with one or more special
distinguishing characteristics, including color, size, shape, material,
codes, etc.
In one embodiment, labels are used in conjunction with the containers.
Optionally, the labels may also contain the above mentioned machine-readable
patterns to allow machine recognition.
In one embodiment, the container labels (e.g., adhesive labels)
may also include optional serialization that would permit tracking
of the waste items placed into a specific container. Consequently,
a container can later be identified by its serial number and tracked
on a computer. Further, this information can optionally be used
to print a manifest describing the contents of a given container.
This is especially helpful since regulatory authorities often require
a manifest to be placed on waste containers. Presently, these requirements
are sometimes met by "over manifesting" (e.g., listing
all possible types of waste that may be discarded in the container).
However, as regulation of such waste becomes more stringent, this
practice may be disallowed in the future. In addition, some embodiments
of the invention use serialized containers that provide an elegant
method of detailed container manifesting.
In yet another embodiment, the number of times a particular reusable
container has been used will be tracked. One advantage of such a
tracking system is to aid users in determining when a reusable container
is approaching the end of its life cycle. This is particularly useful
for containers that may be reused for only a predetermined number
of times.
Manual Input System for Additional Waste Characteristics (e.g.,
not Empty/Empty, Sharp/not-Sharp)
In some embodiments of the invention, the system determines one
or more characteristics of the item that is to be sorted or disposed.
In one embodiment, the system incorporates a manual input system
that prompts the user to indicate information regarding certain
waste item characteristics that may not be automatically detectable
by the system. For example, in some embodiments, the system may
query a user as to whether the waste item is empty or not-empty.
This distinction can be important as waste items that are not empty
(e.g., those that still contain a volume of bulk chemistry) pose
a greater risk of groundwater contamination if landfilled. For example,
drugs on the EPA P-list must be triple-rinsed before they are allowed
into a public solid waste disposal facility. The user prompt may
occur either prior to or following the scanning of the waste item
for a determination of the National Drug Code (NDC) number. Further,
the user may be prompted to provide this information in one of several
ways. For example, the user may be queried using either a visual
instruction or a voice command.
In a further embodiment of the invention, the system interacts
with the user to determine whether the item to be disposed contains
a needle, and therefore, should be handled as bio-hazardous waste.
For example, the system prompts the user, by one of several means,
to indicate whether a sharps item is being disposed. In some embodiments,
a visual instruction or voice command is used to prompt the user
to indicate such information. In most hospitals, because a needle
is assumed to have been in contact with the bodily fluids of a patient,
it is treated as infectious. Such items are referred to as "bio-hazardous"
by lab personnel and as "regulated medical waste" by waste
haulers. Thus, a preliminary determination as to whether a particular
waste item qualifies as a sharps determines whether the item needs
to be handled as infectious. In one embodiment, if the waste item
is an empty sharp, it would normally be directed to the "red
sharps" waste stream. If the waste item is a non-empty sharp,
then it must be handled according to the chemical risk, possibly
ending up in a container with mixed medical and hazardous waste.
Thus, disposal costs of the waste may be influenced by such preliminary
qualifications. Proper handling may result in lowering of disposal
costs, added safety for personnel, and an increased sensitivity
for the environment.
Waste Sorting Decision Matrix
In one embodiment of the invention, the system for sorting waste
comprises a computer equipped with one or more software applications
and a database system that control the handling of each identified
NDC. In one embodiment, the system could be enabled to identify
the specific prompts and actions for each of the approximately 135,000
drugs in the NDC database. In an alternative embodiment, the actions
are grouped into approximately two-dozen different handling procedures.
In this embodiment, the database only needs to associate the NDC
with a code representing the corresponding procedure. A separate
database can then be used to define the details for prompts and
actions associated with each waste group. This classification simplifies
processing and database maintenance. One of skill in the art will
understand that the number of handling procedure classes may vary
in order to facilitate processing.
In one embodiment, the sorting system comprises a computer that
is programmed to operate as a state machine. A state machine is
a concept originated by Turing and is sometimes called Finite State
Automata or a Turing machine. A state machine remains in a known
condition or state until a specific set of inputs causes a transition
to a new state. For each state, a finite library of subsequent states
is possible based on a finite library of input sets. In one embodiment,
the computer has a state for each class of waste. Subsequent state
transitions are invoked for various flags, as described below.
2-Button Action File
In some embodiments, the sorting system uses a manual input system
in conjunction with a waste item identification device to further
enhance the disposal of waste. For example, in one embodiment, the
sorting system uses a 2-button action file to determine prompts
and action steps for each type of item scanned. Questions are prompted
sequentially, and thus, require the sustained attention of the user
on the display and/or keypad to provide the necessary answers or
to follow the necessary instructions. Under this approach, the system
uses only two buttons, which may be incorporated into a low-cost
textual display, such as an alphanumeric LCD having as few as one
line of text. In addition, questions to the user can be worded for
a yes/no answer. In a more elaborate embodiment, a graphical display
may be used. The graphical display may even be color, such as a
small computer monitor.
In one embodiment, the keys can be 2 dedicated buttons or may be
soft keys on a low cost text display. FIG. 27 provides examples
of a 2-button action file. FIG. 28a provides an example of a 2-button
keyboard and display indicating a first prompt requiring a yes/no
response. FIG. 28b provides an example of a 2-button keyboard and
display indicating a second prompt requiring a yes/no response.
4-Button Concept
In one embodiment, the 2-button prompt concept is modified to simultaneously
obtain information regarding more than one inquiry, thus avoiding
"menu layering," e.g., sequentially presenting menus.
Various embodiments of the 4-button concept are feasible. For example,
pairs of buttons serve to distinguish between "sharps"
and "non-sharps" and "empty" and "not empty"
in respective quadrants. Questions can be textual or graphical and
can be color coded to enhance the user interface. In one embodiment,
the buttons can be physical switch keys with permanent nomenclature
(e.g., silk-screened). However, the buttons may also be represented
by electrically activated annunciators or as touch screen zones
of a high resolution display.
In one embodiment, once familiar with using a particular machine,
a user can go to the keypad as the item is being scanned and select
from the four available selections without waiting for the prompt,
thereby saving time.
First 4-Button Graphics
FIG. 30a illustrates one embodiment of a switch arrangement that
utilizes four graphic images. Such a design can be used to simultaneously
obtain key information from the user. In FIG. 30a, the two left
buttons are for sharps, while the two right buttons are for non-sharps.
In addition, the two top buttons are for empty waste items, while
the two bottom buttons are for non-empty waste items. Therefore,
if the waste item is a sharps and is empty, the user should select
the top, left button.
4-Button Action File
In one embodiment, a 4-button action file is used to determine
prompts and action steps for each type of item scanned. Questions
to the user are prompted simultaneously, and thus making it easier
for the user to respond. The keys can be fixed or represented on
a monochrome or a color graphics display. Moreover, keys can be
implemented using 4 dedicated buttons or with 4 soft keys (e.g.,
on a low cost text display). Examples of a 4-button action file
are provided in FIG. 29.
Second 4-Button Graphics
One of skill in the art will understand that several graphic designs
can be used in accordance with several of the embodiments disclosed
herein. For example, FIG. 30b shows a second design for a switch
arrangement using four graphic images specifically designed to obtain
information related to whether a waste item is or is not a sharps
and whether a waste item is or is not empty.
Software Flags (Modes of Operation)
In some embodiments, the user (or another entity) can define configuration
settings or "flags" for the device which change the entry
point into the Action File and, in one embodiment, can increase
the number of items in the Action File. Effectively, this permits
a user to alter the system's mode of operation. For instance, if
an embodiment includes the use of a cost/eco flag, there may be
two lines in the Action File (e.g., one to handle waste as the most
cost effective route and another to handle waste in the most ecologically
conscious route). However, if the method of disposal were to be
the same regardless of the setting of the flag, there may be only
one item in the Action file. In an alternate embodiment, the Action
File can have two items that are identical. Examples of several
flags (or modes of operation) are described below.
COST-ECO Flag
In one embodiment, a "COST-ECO" flag is used. Implementing
a COST-ECO flag may permit a hospital to specify a level of concern
for waste disposal. If the hospital specifies the COST setting,
the device operates in a manner that satisfies all regulatory and
other legal requirements at the lowest cost. In practice, this can
mean landfilling items with multiple toxic ingredients because they
do not qualify as hazardous under Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA). Under RCRA regulations, medical waste is considered
hazardous only if it contains an active ingredient on one of the
EPA lists (e.g., P-list, U-list, or D-list).
Alternatively, the ECO flag emphasizes greater concern for the
environment and shows a willingness by the facility to spend more
money for the potential environmental benefit. When the ECO flag
is set, the device assigns multi-ingredient waste items, endocrine
disruptors, estrogen mimics, and other high risk waste items into
recommended waste streams that exceed the minimum regulatory and
legal requirements.
Waste Hauler Flag
Certain waste haulers are licensed to handle bio-hazardous (regulated
medical waste or RMW) waste, while others are licensed to handle
toxic (hazardous) waste. In one embodiment, a flag may be used that
allows sorting into different containers to accommodate the available
waste haulers requirements. Thus, it may possible to prevent filling
a container with a particular type of waste if the waste hauler
cannot handle such waste.
POTW (Publicly Owned Treatment Works) Flag
Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) facilities may or may not
be set up to handle and/or treat certain wastewater contaminants.
Thus, in one embodiment, a POTW flag may be used. By adding a POTW
flag to each item in the database, it is possible to identify whether
a waste item can be directly discharged into a particular sewer
system.
Jump Drive and Barcode for Configuration
In one embodiment, the sorting system will receive updates to the
database to account for new drugs, repackaged drugs, admixtures,
and the like. In one embodiment, the carts are not hardwired to
an Ethernet connection port (CAT-5) and, thus, instead rely on a
wireless communication to connect with the hospital's or facility's
network (e.g., intranet). Since data security is a foremost concern
in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, in one embodiment,
new devices may be precluded from accessing the network until properly
authenticated. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 49, one or more
firewall systems are used to enhance a facility's data security
networks. Typically, hospital devices conform to the Lightweight
Extensible Authentication Protocol (LEAP) standard. In order for
a device to become LEAP authenticated, it typically needs to present
certain keys. On a general-purpose computer, it is possible for
the system administrator of a particular network to manually enter
these keys (e.g., via keyboard and monitor). For those embodiments
of the invention that are particularly cost-effective, less expensive,
special-purpose, "headless" (no display or keyboard) devices
can be used. Thus, alternative methods of supplying the necessary
authentication codes are used.
For example, in one embodiment, the authentication codes are inserted
during the manufacturing process. However, this may not be possible
if the customer is not known at the time of manufacture. Another
method involves the temporary connection to a keyboard and display
device in order to enter the codes. A third method uses a laptop
computer connection for assigning codes. A fourth method is to temporarily
dock the collection device to an Ethernet port and load the codes
from another computer. These approaches, although usable in accordance
with several embodiments of the invention, may require knowledge
that is unavailable at a particular point in time, or may require
unreasonable hardware intervention. A preferred method of loading
the LEAP authentication codes is to insert a flash or thumb drive
into a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port to download the codes. The
USB drive could also be used for other computer setup tasks.
In one of the several embodiments that use a barcode reader, the
system employs authentication codes to a series of barcodes that
may be presented to the scanner sequentially. Thus the device will
read one or more barcodes and use the information to set up LEAP
authentication. For those embodiments that do not use a bar code
reader, other alternatives may be used (e.g., RFID, magnetic card,
etc.).
Repackaged Drugs and Admixture Sorting
Several embodiments of the invention are adapted to receive waste
from multiple sources. In one scenario, three main classes of pharmaceutical
items are expected to reach the collection devices that are located
in a point of care patient area. These can be described as (i) pass-through
drugs; (ii) repackaged drugs; and (iii) admixtures.
Pass-through drugs are drugs that reach the point of use in the
original package as provided by the manufacturer. Examples include
I.V. bags, syringes, inhalants, patches, and all single use items
such as pills, liquids, creams, or others. According to one embodiment,
once the item is used and presented to the sorting system, a barcode
on the waste item can be easily read and decoded since the system's
database should contain information on all of the roughly 135,000
known FDA registered drugs. Ideally, the barcode for these pass-through
drugs will be (or may contain) the FDA registered NDC number.
Repackaged drugs are those that are received from the manufacturer
in a first package, and are transferred to a second package for
distribution to the point of care patient area. The repackaging
may take place in a pharmacy, another location within the hospital,
or an off-site commercial repackaging house. Examples of commonly
repackaged drugs include bulk packaged pills, powders, or liquids
that usually must be repackaged into smaller portions or "unit
dose" packages for distribution. Repackaging facilitates handling,
billing, and verifying correct medication administration.
The package for repackaged drugs can be bar-coded to be recognized
by embodiments of the invention. Typically, it is the hospital's
responsibility to design the barcode that accompanies repackaged
goods. For example, the selected barcode may be the NDC number of
the larger package. Although this "borrowed" barcode correctly
identifies the drug's chemistry, it is not entirely correct, because
it does not provide package code information as does a full NDC
code. By changing the package and keeping the barcode, a portion
of the barcode becomes technically incorrect. However, it is still
usable by some embodiments of the sorting system and is one of the
preferred barcodes for the second package of a repackaged drug.
The hospital may also generate a site-unique barcode for the second
package. In one embodiment, the site-unique barcode typically starts
with an "L" or "99" to distinguish it from manufacturer
NDC codes. In order for embodiments of the sorting system to dispose
an item with a site-unique barcode, communication between the collection
device and the pharmacy is preferred. In one embodiment, the pharmacy
provides the collection device with an NDC code with which to associate
the barcode appearing on the repackaged item. In one embodiment,
the communication may occur in real-time, when the item is presented
for disposal. However, real-time communication may slow the operation
of the collection device, as the pharmacy computer may be busy or
unacceptably slow due to authentication and encryption requirements
or communication traffic. In one preferred embodiment, the necessary
communication between the collection device and the pharmacy occurs
before the item is discarded (e.g., by a broadcast message from
the pharmacy at the time the order is filled and sent to the floor).
Communications of this sort often take the form of a Health Level
7 (HL7) message. HL7 is an industry standard communication scheme
for information transfer among diverse hospital systems such as
billing, admissions, patient records, medication administration
and the like. The HL7 formatted message will associate the NDC of
the waste item contents with the barcode on the package. In one
preferred embodiment, the HL7 message directed to the sorting system
will safeguard patient-specific information in compliance with all
privacy requirements, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability
and Accountability Act).
In addition to pass-through and repackaged drugs, pharmacies often
create custom recipes containing multiple pharmaceutical ingredients.
These "admixtures" are generally labeled with a site-specific
barcode rather than the NDC code of their ingredients. In one embodiment,
the site-unique barcode is decoded. In one preferred embodiment,
the sorting system is instructed to sort the admixture waste via
an HL7 message or the like. Unlike a single repackaged item, an
admixture message will associate the barcode with multiple NDC numbers
contained in the admixture being discarded. In one embodiment, once
the sorting system is in possession of the list of NDC numbers,
it can quickly identify the container in which the waste item should
be placed, Such a determination is based on individual waste stream
codes for the various constituent ingredients in the waste item.
FIG. 31 illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of the decision
logic related to the identification and classification of the waste
items.
One of skill in the art will appreciate that the flowchart in FIG.
31 shows one example of how the waste sorting system can handle
admixture waste in real-time.
On Screen Waste Stream Display
In one embodiment, a display is provided to indicate selected information,
including, but is not limited to, the NDC decoded from the barcode
on the package, the chemistry formulation derived from the database
lookup (which would match that listed on the package), the waste
composition and categorization determined by the machine (which
should match the open door), and/or the reasons for the particular
waste decision.
Restricted Access Containers
In one embodiment of the invention, the present invention comprises
waste receptacles that are adapted to restrict access to medical
or pharmaceutical waste, once that waste has been deposited in the
receptacle.
In one embodiment, a receptacle for medical or pharmaceutical waste
is provided. In one embodiment, the container is adapted to restrict
access to disposed waste. FIGS. 36 and 44 illustrate some of the
features of some of the embodiments discussed below. In one embodiment,
the container comprises a lid 82 formed in a V-shaped cross section,
with circular outer edges. In a further embodiment, a shield 26
having a circular cross section, wherein the shield is positioned
at the perimeter of the arc formed by said lid 82 is also provided.
In yet another embodiment, a latch assembly 24 is provided. In one
embodiment, the container comprises a V-shaped lid, one or more
shields, and one or more latch assemblies.
In another embodiment, a restricted access container for medical
or pharmaceutical waste is provided wherein the container comprises
a lid having substantially circular outer edges, wherein the lid
is rotatably operated so that the circular outer edges remain at
a constant radius from the axis in all positions, a blocking means
adapted to block access to waste contents in all lid positions,
and a latch assembly.
In one embodiment, the lid is adapted to restrict, exclude, reduce,
or minimize access to deposited waste when in the closed position.
In a preferred embodiment, the lid is further adapted to restrict,
exclude, reduce, or minimize access to deposited waste during the
opening cycle. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the waste receptacle
has a safety feature that restricts (or minimizes) access to disposed
medical or pharmaceutical waste while the receptacle is being opened.
Thus, in one embodiment the container permits disposal of additional
waste while simultaneously restricting access to waste that has
been previously disposed.
Some embodiments of the present invention can also be used for
receptacles containing materials other than medical or pharmaceutical
waste. Thus, in some embodiments, the restricted access lid can
be used with non-medical, non-pharmaceutical containers, holders,
or vessels.
In one embodiment, a rotary level sensor operates in conjunction
with a rotary lid. One function of the lid, according to several
embodiments of the invention, is to open upon command from the electronics,
allowing an item of hazardous waste to be deposited.
A second function of the lid, according to several embodiments
of the invention, is that the open lid is easily recognizable by
the user, from among an array of other container lids, intuitively
directing their attention to the open container, thus avoiding the
need for lights or other indicating means.
A third function of the lid, according to several embodiments of
the invention, is to exclude access to the container contents by
the user or other personnel, at all times. The lid, according to
some embodiments, may be adapted to accomplish none, one, two, or
all three of these functions.
In one embodiment, the restricted access safety feature comprises
a lid formed in a V-shaped cross section, with circular outer edges.
The lid is rotatably operated so that the circular outer edges remain
at a constant radius from the axis in all positions, including open,
closed, and in between open and closed. The V-shaped lid forms an
approximately 135 degrees angle, and its diameter is such that the
resulting opening is large enough to accept the largest anticipated
waste item. In one embodiment, the lid motion is also limited to
approximately 135 degrees. One of skill in the art will understand
that lids of other shapes and other angles can also be used in accordance
with several embodiments of the present invention.
In one embodiment, a shielding means, or shield, is also provided.
For example, in one embodiment, a shield that is circular in cross
section is placed at the perimeter of the arc described by the lid
during a portion of its motion. In one embodiment, the lid, in combination
with the shield, blocks access to the contents during some or most
operating positions. In a preferred embodiment, the lid, in combination
with the shield, blocks access to the contents during all operating
positions.
In one embodiment, a latch assembly is provided. In one embodiment,
a latch assembly is part of the equipment and mates to a container
during use. In a preferred embodiment, the container is formed with
control rods extending outward from one end to mate with openings
in the latch assembly. One control rod is tied to the lid, and the
other is tied to the bar. Rotational position information of the
lid and bar is transferred to concentric inner and outer rings,
which track the rotational motion of the lid and bar. The inner
and outer ring are each supplied with a position indicator and opto-interruptor
for detecting a predetermined position. In a preferred embodiment,
the lid detector is set to indicate when the lid is closed, and
the bar detector is set to detect when the bar is fully open. In
one embodiment, each ring is supplied with a torsion spring to provide
opening force.
Although certain embodiments and examples have been described herein,
it will be understood by those skilled in the art that many aspects
of the methods and devices shown and described in the present disclosure
may be differently combined and/or modified to form still further
embodiments. Additionally, it will be recognized that the methods
described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for
performing the recited steps. Moreover, the methods steps need not
be practiced in any given order in some embodiments. Such alternative
embodiments and/or uses of the methods and devices described above
and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof are intended to
be within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, it is intended
that the scope of the present invention should not be limited by
the particular embodiments described above, but should be determined
by a fair reading of the claims that follow. |