A HORMONE THERAPY PILL DISPENSER WITH REMINDER SYSTEM

Abstract

The present invention discloses a hormone therapy pill dispenser with an integrated reminder system, wherein said system (100) includes an automated dispensing mechanism (10), a programmable interface (20), and a multi-modal reminder system (30) with auditory, visual, and tactile alerts. It features a secure locking mechanism (40), connectivity options (50) for mobile synchronization, a learning algorithm for personalized reminders, a compact design for portability, and a battery backup system (60). This device enhances medication adherence, ensuring accurate and consistent hormone therapy management.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
The field of the invention relates to medical devices, specifically to a smart pill dispenser designed for hormone therapy management. It integrates automated dispensing with a built-in reminder system, facilitating precise dosage administration, improving patient adherence, and ensuring effective hormone treatment in healthcare settings or at home.

BACKGROUD OF THE INVENTION:
Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
Hormone therapy plays a critical role in managing various medical conditions, including endocrine disorders, gender transition, menopause, and certain cancers. Ensuring consistent medication adherence is vital for the effectiveness of hormone therapy, as irregular intake can result in suboptimal outcomes, ranging from ineffective symptom control to serious health complications. Patients undergoing hormone therapy often face challenges related to strict dosing schedules, particularly when multiple doses are required throughout the day. This can be overwhelming, especially for individuals with busy lifestyles, cognitive impairments, or complex therapy regimens that require precise timing.
In addition to dosage adherence, many patients experience difficulty in maintaining a consistent routine due to forgetfulness or confusion about the dosage times. Research has demonstrated that one of the major reasons for non-adherence in hormone therapy is the lack of an effective reminder system, which can result in missed doses or incorrect pill consumption. This inconsistency can lead to hormone level fluctuations, affecting treatment efficacy and causing side effects such as mood swings, hot flashes, fatigue, or exacerbation of the underlying medical condition. These challenges highlight the need for a solution that ensures precise, timely, and consistent administration of hormone therapy medications.
Existing solutions in the market, such as basic pillboxes, require manual management and offer limited features. While some advanced pill dispensers have emerged, many lack a user-friendly interface or comprehensive features tailored specifically to hormone therapy. Furthermore, the reminder functions in conventional dispensers are often limited to basic alarm settings, which might not be adaptable to varying therapy schedules or provide sufficient alerts to ensure adherence. As hormone therapy demands flexibility, customization, and reliability, there is a growing need for an innovative system that addresses the complexities of managing these medications while accommodating patient-specific needs.
To address these issues, an automated hormone therapy pill dispenser with an integrated reminder system is proposed. This invention aims to enhance the effectiveness of hormone therapy by offering a device that not only stores and dispenses pills but also incorporates a real-time reminder system. By focusing on patient compliance, the device seeks to minimize dosage errors, maintain stable hormone levels, and improve overall treatment outcomes. The device is designed to be user-friendly, making it suitable for individuals of all ages, including elderly patients who may have difficulty handling traditional pill dispensers.
The proposed pill dispenser employs advanced technologies to streamline the medication management process. It features an automated mechanism that releases the correct dose at pre-set intervals, based on the patient's therapy schedule. The dispenser is programmed to store various types of hormone pills, with a built-in compartmentalized system that segregates pills according to the time of administration. This reduces the risk of incorrect dosage and ensures the right medication is dispensed at the right time. In addition, the device is equipped with a programmable interface that allows healthcare providers or caregivers to set up the dosage schedule according to the patient's prescription. This feature makes it adaptable to different hormone therapy regimens, whether they require daily, weekly, or even multiple doses per day.
An essential aspect of the invention is the reminder system, which aims to enhance adherence to medication schedules. Unlike basic alarm systems, this dispenser integrates auditory, visual, and tactile alerts, making it suitable for patients with varying sensory needs. The auditory reminders include customizable sounds that alert the patient when it is time to take the medication. The visual reminders involve flashing LED indicators, which can be particularly useful for patients with hearing impairments. Additionally, the tactile alert function provides a vibrating notification, which is ideal for individuals with visual and auditory challenges or those who might be in a noisy environment. This multi-modal reminder system increases the likelihood of the patient responding to alerts and adhering to the prescribed therapy schedule.
The device also offers connectivity features to further enhance its usability and effectiveness. It includes Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities that allow synchronization with mobile devices, enabling users to receive notifications on their smartphones or tablets. Through a dedicated mobile application, patients can monitor their medication adherence history, track remaining doses, and receive notifications for refill reminders. The app also allows caregivers or healthcare professionals to remotely check adherence, making it a valuable tool for managing hormone therapy for elderly patients or those with cognitive impairments. By providing real-time data, this connectivity ensures transparency in therapy management and allows healthcare providers to make informed decisions about the patient's treatment plan.
Furthermore, the dispenser is designed with safety features to prevent unauthorized access or tampering. It incorporates a secure locking mechanism that only releases medication at the designated time, ensuring that patients cannot access more than the prescribed dose. This is especially beneficial for hormone therapy, where overdosing or taking medication out of sequence can result in adverse effects. The device also includes a battery backup to ensure continuous operation, even during power outages, thus maintaining medication adherence without interruptions.
The automated hormone therapy pill dispenser also considers patient comfort and convenience. It is designed to be compact and portable, allowing patients to carry it discreetly in their bags or pockets, making it suitable for both home and travel use. The lightweight and durable design ensure that it can withstand daily handling while maintaining functionality. In addition, the dispenser is easy to refill, with a simple loading mechanism that minimizes errors during the refilling process. It can accommodate different pill sizes and shapes, making it versatile and compatible with various hormone medications available in the market.
The integration of a learning algorithm is another innovative feature of the proposed device. By analyzing the user's adherence patterns, the algorithm can suggest adjustments to the reminder system, such as increasing the frequency of alerts during times when doses are more likely to be missed. This adaptive feature enhances the effectiveness of the reminder system, personalizing the therapy experience according to the patient's specific needs. As a result, patients can achieve better hormone balance, experience fewer side effects, and improve their overall quality of life.
Therefore, the automated hormone therapy pill dispenser with a reminder system addresses the critical challenges of medication adherence in hormone therapy. By combining automation, real-time reminders, connectivity, and patient-centered design, this invention aims to optimize hormone therapy outcomes and provide a reliable solution for patients managing complex medication regimens. The device represents a significant advancement in medical technology, offering an effective means to improve adherence, enhance patient safety, and promote consistent treatment outcomes.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
The prime object of the invention is to provide a smart, automated pill dispenser specifically tailored for hormone therapy management. It aims to ensure precise, timely, and consistent administration of hormone medications, thereby enhancing treatment adherence and overall patient outcomes.
Another object of the invention is to incorporate an integrated reminder system that uses auditory, visual, and tactile alerts to notify users when it is time to take their hormone therapy pills. This multi-modal alert system is designed to be adaptable to various sensory needs, improving patient compliance and reducing the risk of missed doses.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a user-friendly interface that allows patients, caregivers, or healthcare providers to easily program the dispenser according to the prescribed hormone therapy schedule. The dispenser can accommodate different dosing regimens, making it suitable for daily, weekly, or multiple-dose schedules, thereby ensuring flexibility in managing diverse hormone therapy requirements.
Still another object of the invention is to offer connectivity features such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi integration, enabling synchronization with mobile devices. This connectivity allows users to receive notifications on their smartphones, track adherence history, and receive refill alerts. It also facilitates remote monitoring by caregivers or healthcare professionals, thereby improving patient management, especially for the elderly or individuals with cognitive impairments.
A further object of the invention is to provide a secure locking mechanism that prevents unauthorized access or tampering with the medication. This ensures that only the prescribed dose is dispensed at the scheduled time, minimizing the risk of overdose or sequence errors, which are critical considerations in hormone therapy.
Additionally, an object of the invention is to offer portability and convenience for patients. The compact and lightweight design makes it suitable for both home use and travel, allowing patients to maintain adherence even when they are away from home. The dispenser is also designed to be easily refillable, accommodating different pill sizes and shapes to ensure compatibility with a wide range of hormone medications.
Another significant object of the invention is to incorporate a learning algorithm that adapts to the user's adherence patterns. This feature enhances the personalization of the reminder system by adjusting alert frequency based on the likelihood of missed doses, thereby optimizing adherence and hormone level stability.
Moreover, an object of the invention is to ensure continuous operation by including a battery backup system. This feature prevents interruptions in medication adherence during power outages, maintaining the consistency required for effective hormone therapy.
Finally, the invention aims to provide a safe, effective, and reliable solution for hormone therapy management, addressing the critical challenges of adherence and dosage accuracy. It strives to promote better treatment outcomes, reduce side effects associated with irregular dosing, and improve the overall quality of life for patients undergoing hormone therapy.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The invention presents a smart, automated pill dispenser specifically designed for hormone therapy management, integrating advanced features to improve medication adherence, dosage accuracy, and user experience. It combines a precise dispensing mechanism with a real-time reminder system, ensuring consistent hormone administration. The device is intended to support patients by reducing the risk of missed doses, dose timing errors, and hormone level fluctuations, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of hormone therapy.
An inventive aspect of the invention is to provide an integrated reminder system that employs multi-modal alerts, including auditory, visual, and tactile notifications. This feature caters to diverse sensory needs, improving adherence by ensuring that patients receive timely reminders to take their medication, regardless of environmental distractions or sensory impairments.
Another inventive aspect of the invention is the inclusion of a user-friendly interface that allows seamless customization of the pill dispensing schedule. The device's programming feature accommodates daily, weekly, or multiple-dose regimens, making it adaptable to various hormone therapy protocols. This aspect ensures that the dispenser aligns with the specific needs of each patient, enhancing the precision and reliability of medication management.
Yet another inventive aspect of the invention is the integration of connectivity features such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi synchronization, which enables communication with mobile devices. This connectivity not only provides notifications and refill alerts on smartphones but also allows patients, caregivers, or healthcare professionals to remotely monitor adherence. By facilitating real-time data access and analysis, this feature contributes to more informed decision-making in hormone therapy management.
Still another inventive aspect of the invention is the secure locking mechanism designed to prevent unauthorized access or tampering. The locking system ensures that only the prescribed dose is dispensed at the designated time, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of overdosage or incorrect medication intake. This aspect is particularly critical for hormone therapy, where accurate dosing is crucial for maintaining hormone balance and achieving optimal treatment outcomes.
A further inventive aspect of the invention is the inclusion of a learning algorithm that personalizes the reminder system based on the user's adherence patterns. By analyzing adherence history, the algorithm adjusts the frequency and type of reminders to optimize medication intake. This adaptive feature tailors the therapy experience to individual needs, supporting consistent hormone levels and reducing the likelihood of therapy interruptions.
Moreover, an inventive aspect of the invention is the portable and compact design, which allows patients to use the dispenser both at home and during travel. This portability ensures continuous adherence to hormone therapy schedules, regardless of the patient's location. The device's lightweight construction and easy refill mechanism further enhance its convenience, making it a practical solution for patients managing hormone therapy.
Additionally, an inventive aspect of the invention is the provision of a battery backup system that maintains device operation during power outages. This ensures uninterrupted dispensing and adherence, maintaining stable hormone levels and minimizing therapy disruptions, which are essential for effective hormone therapy management.
Overall, the invention's inventive features offer a comprehensive solution for managing hormone therapy, emphasizing adherence, safety, personalization, and user convenience. By integrating automation, connectivity, secure access, and adaptive reminders, the dispenser aims to optimize hormone therapy outcomes and improve the quality of life for patients.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
Please provide brief description of the drawings contain a single figure using following description for reference and in exact format:
The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of "A High-Gloss Transparent Wood Enamel," highlighting key aspects of its formulation and application. These figures are intended for illustrative purposes to aid in understanding the invention and are not meant to limit its scope.
FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a high-gloss transparent wood enamel, showing its composition, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The drawings provided will be further described in detail in the following sections. They offer a visual representation of the high-gloss transparent wood enamel's formulation, application methods, and resulting finish, helping to clarify and support the detailed description of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that the embodiments may be combined, or that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
The present invention is described in brief with reference to the accompanying drawings. Now, refer in more detail to the exemplary drawings for the purposes of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the present invention.
As used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives including "comprises" and "comprise" include each of the stated integers or elements but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers or elements.
As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to "a device" encompasses a single device as well as two or more devices, and the like.
As used herein, the terms "for example", "like", "such as", or "including" are meant to introduce examples that further clarify more general subject matter. Unless otherwise specified, these examples are provided only as an aid for understanding the applications illustrated in the present disclosure, and are not meant to be limiting in any fashion.
As used herein, the terms ""may", "can", "could", or "might" be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. These exemplary embodiments are provided only for illustrative purposes and so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention disclosed may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.
Various modifications will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition and persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.
With reference to FIG. 1, in an embodiment of the present invention, the hormone therapy pill dispenser with an integrated reminder system (100) is designed to optimize medication adherence and enhance the effectiveness of hormone therapy. It consists of an automated dispensing mechanism (10) that is specifically configured to store and release hormone pills at pre-programmed intervals. This mechanism is central to the dispenser's function, ensuring that hormone medications are administered accurately and consistently. The mechanism uses a compartmentalized storage system that organizes pills according to the prescribed schedule. It is capable of holding different types of hormone pills and segregates them to prevent any mix-up. When the programmed time arrives, the mechanism precisely releases the designated dose into a dispensing slot, making it easily accessible to the user. The automated dispensing mechanism (10) is designed to prevent manual handling errors, thereby ensuring that the user receives the correct dose each time.
The programmable interface (20) is another critical component of the invention. This interface allows users, caregivers, or healthcare providers to set specific dosing schedules that match the requirements of hormone therapy. It is adaptable to daily, weekly, or multiple-dose regimens, accommodating the diverse needs of patients undergoing different forms of hormone therapy. The interface uses a digital display, along with buttons or a touchscreen, to facilitate easy programming. Patients or caregivers can set precise intervals for dispensing, adjust the dosage based on prescription changes, and customize the schedule to reflect their treatment needs. The user-friendly design of the interface ensures that it can be operated by individuals with varying levels of technical expertise, including elderly patients or those with limited mobility.
The multi-modal reminder system (30) is one of the invention's standout features, designed to enhance adherence by notifying users when it is time to take their medication. This system includes three types of alerts: auditory, visual, and tactile. The auditory alerts consist of customizable sounds that can be adjusted in terms of volume and tone, making them suitable for users with different hearing capabilities. Visual alerts are provided through LED indicators that flash at the designated time, making the system suitable for users with hearing impairments. The tactile alerts are provided via vibrations, which are particularly useful for users who may be in noisy environments or have both visual and auditory challenges. This combination of alert modes ensures that the reminder system effectively reaches the user, reducing the likelihood of missed doses. Furthermore, the alerts can be personalized based on the user's preferences, ensuring that the reminders are both effective and non-intrusive.
The secure locking mechanism (40) is an essential safety feature of the dispenser. It is designed to prevent unauthorized access or tampering with the medication, which is particularly important for hormone therapy, where dose accuracy is critical. The locking mechanism ensures that only the pre-set dose is dispensed at the scheduled time, minimizing the risk of overdosing or taking medication out of sequence. This feature is especially beneficial in cases where the dispenser is used in shared living environments or by patients with cognitive impairments. The locking mechanism is programmed to remain engaged until the next scheduled dose, adding an extra layer of security to the medication management process. In addition, the dispenser includes a safety lock override for healthcare professionals, allowing authorized access in emergency situations.
Connectivity features (50) are integrated into the dispenser to enhance its functionality and user engagement. These features enable synchronization with mobile devices via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, allowing users to receive notifications, refill alerts, and adherence reminders on their smartphones. The connectivity also extends to a dedicated mobile application that provides users with access to adherence history, medication analytics, and remote monitoring options. This application enables caregivers and healthcare providers to monitor the patient's adherence in real-time, making it a valuable tool for managing complex hormone therapy regimens. The application can also provide dosage history reports, refill reminders, and user support, ensuring a comprehensive approach to medication management. By enabling remote monitoring, the connectivity features improve therapy outcomes, especially for patients who require ongoing supervision or are unable to independently manage their medication schedules.
The dispenser incorporates a learning algorithm that analyzes adherence patterns and adjusts the reminder frequency to optimize medication intake. This adaptive feature makes the device highly effective in promoting consistent hormone therapy adherence. The algorithm reviews the user's adherence history, identifying patterns of missed doses or delayed intake, and adjusts the alert system accordingly. For example, if the user frequently misses doses during a certain time of day, the algorithm increases the frequency or intensity of reminders during that period. This personalization enhances the effectiveness of the reminder system, supporting better adherence and maintaining stable hormone levels. The adaptive nature of the learning algorithm ensures that it can accommodate changing adherence patterns, making it a dynamic solution for hormone therapy management.
Portability and compactness are key design features of the dispenser, making it suitable for both home use and travel. The dispenser is constructed from lightweight yet durable materials, ensuring that it can be carried easily without compromising its structural integrity. Its compact design allows users to discreetly carry it in a bag or purse, making it convenient for patients who travel frequently or need to maintain adherence outside their homes. Despite its compact size, the dispenser has ample capacity to hold a sufficient supply of hormone pills, reducing the need for frequent refills. The refill mechanism is straightforward, with clear instructions to ensure that users or caregivers can easily reload the dispenser without errors. This combination of portability, ease of refilling, and secure dispensing makes the device a practical solution for maintaining consistent hormone therapy adherence.
The dispenser also features a battery backup system (60) to ensure continuous operation, even during power outages. This backup system is designed to maintain the functionality of both the dispensing mechanism and the reminder system, preventing interruptions in medication adherence. The backup system uses rechargeable batteries that provide extended operational time, giving users peace of mind in the event of power disruptions. The inclusion of a battery backup is especially beneficial for patients living in areas with unreliable power supply or those who rely on the dispenser as their primary means of hormone therapy management. The backup system also includes indicators to notify users when the battery level is low, prompting timely recharging to ensure uninterrupted operation.
The dispenser is versatile in its ability to accommodate various pill sizes and shapes, making it compatible with a wide range of hormone medications. It uses adjustable compartments within the dispensing mechanism (10), allowing users to store different types of pills based on their therapy needs. This versatility is crucial for hormone therapy, as it often involves different medications with varying sizes and dosing schedules. By offering compatibility with multiple pill types, the dispenser reduces the need for additional devices, simplifying medication management for patients undergoing complex therapy regimens.
The mobile application interface, as part of the connectivity features (50), offers additional tools for enhanced therapy management. It provides users with access to medication adherence analytics, dosage history reports, and user support resources. These features help users understand their adherence patterns, identify potential areas for improvement, and receive guidance on optimizing their medication intake. The application also offers a user-friendly dashboard that presents information in a clear and concise manner, making it easy for users to navigate and understand their therapy progress. For caregivers and healthcare professionals, the app provides a comprehensive overview of the patient's adherence, allowing for timely interventions when necessary.
Therefore, the hormone therapy pill dispenser with an integrated reminder system (100) is a comprehensive solution designed to improve medication adherence, safety, and convenience. Its innovative features, including the automated dispensing mechanism (10), programmable interface (20), multi-modal reminder system (30), secure locking mechanism (40), connectivity features (50), learning algorithm, portable design, and battery backup system (60), make it an effective tool for managing hormone therapy. By addressing the key challenges of hormone therapy management, this dispenser promotes consistent adherence, accurate dosing, and improved treatment outcomes for patients. The combination of automation, adaptability, and user-centric design makes this invention a valuable addition to the field of medical devices, particularly in the management of hormone therapy.

Working of the invention: The hormone therapy pill dispenser with an integrated reminder system (100) operates through a coordinated mechanism designed to dispense hormone pills accurately at pre-set intervals, while simultaneously ensuring that users receive timely reminders to maintain adherence. The working process begins with the automated dispensing mechanism (10), which stores the hormone pills in individual compartments based on the prescribed therapy schedule. These compartments are pre-loaded and organized according to specific dosage times, allowing the device to release the correct dose at the designated intervals. The compartments are designed to accommodate different pill sizes and shapes, making the dispenser versatile for various hormone therapy medications.
When the programmed time arrives, the dispensing mechanism (10) activates, pushing the designated dose into an accessible dispensing slot. The mechanism utilizes a motorized system that is linked to a timing circuit, ensuring precise operation based on the pre-set schedule. The timing circuit is pre-programmed via the programmable interface (20), which allows users or caregivers to set specific dosing schedules that match the patient's hormone therapy regimen. The interface supports daily, weekly, or even multiple-dose schedules, making it adaptable to various hormone therapy requirements. Users can input dosing times, adjust intervals, and modify settings easily through the digital display, which can be operated using buttons or a touchscreen. The programmable interface (20) is designed for ease of use, ensuring that patients can interact with it without difficulty.
As the dispensing mechanism releases the dose, the multi-modal reminder system (30) is simultaneously triggered to notify the user. This system operates using three types of alerts: auditory, visual, and tactile. The auditory alert consists of customizable sounds that are emitted from a built-in speaker, signaling to the user that it is time to take the medication. Users can select from various sounds and adjust the volume to suit their preferences, ensuring that the alerts are effective in different settings. The visual alert is provided by LED indicators, which begin flashing when the dose is ready for consumption. This is particularly useful for users with hearing impairments, as it provides a clear visual cue. The tactile alert function, on the other hand, is implemented through vibrations, making it suitable for users in noisy environments or those with both visual and auditory limitations. The combination of these alerts ensures that users receive effective reminders, reducing the likelihood of missed doses.
The secure locking mechanism (40) plays a vital role in the working of the dispenser by preventing unauthorized access to the medication. It is designed to lock the dispensing compartments after each dose is released, ensuring that users cannot access additional doses outside the prescribed schedule. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining the safety and accuracy of hormone therapy, as it minimizes the risk of overdosing or taking medication out of sequence. The locking system is electronically controlled and operates in sync with the dispensing mechanism, engaging automatically after each dose is dispensed. In case of an emergency, authorized personnel such as caregivers or healthcare professionals can override the lock using a secure code or key, ensuring that access is available when necessary without compromising the device's safety features.
Connectivity features (50) enhance the working of the dispenser by allowing synchronization with mobile devices. These features enable communication between the dispenser and a dedicated mobile application via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Once connected, users can receive notifications, track adherence history, and monitor refill status directly on their smartphones. The mobile application provides real-time alerts when a dose is dispensed or missed, ensuring that users remain informed about their therapy progress. It also offers refill reminders, prompting users to reload the dispenser when the medication supply is running low. The application further allows remote monitoring, making it a useful tool for caregivers or healthcare professionals who need to oversee the patient's adherence to the prescribed therapy.
A learning algorithm is integrated into the system to improve adherence over time. This algorithm analyzes the user's adherence patterns and adjusts the frequency and intensity of the reminders accordingly. For example, if the user consistently misses doses during a specific time of day, the algorithm increases the alert frequency or changes the type of reminder to make it more noticeable. This adaptive feature personalizes the reminder system based on the user's behavior, ensuring that the alerts become more effective in promoting consistent adherence. By dynamically adjusting the reminder settings, the algorithm helps maintain stable hormone levels, which is critical for effective therapy outcomes.
Portability is a significant aspect of the dispenser's working, as it is designed to be compact and lightweight, allowing users to carry it conveniently. Despite its portability, the device maintains its functionality, providing continuous adherence support whether the user is at home or traveling. The device's refill process is straightforward, with clear instructions that guide users in loading the pills into the appropriate compartments. This ease of use ensures that the dispenser can be operated independently by patients or with minimal assistance from caregivers.
The battery backup system (60) is designed to ensure uninterrupted operation during power outages. When the device detects a power failure, it automatically switches to battery mode, maintaining the functionality of the dispensing mechanism (10), programmable interface (20), reminder system (30), and connectivity features (50). The rechargeable battery provides sufficient backup time to cover extended power interruptions, ensuring that the user's adherence is not affected. This feature is especially beneficial for patients in areas with frequent power outages or those who rely solely on the dispenser for their hormone therapy management.
In addition to these primary functions, the dispenser also includes safety checks that monitor the correct operation of the dispensing mechanism (10), locking system (40), and alert system (30). If any malfunction is detected, the device triggers an error notification, prompting the user to seek assistance. This feature ensures that the device operates reliably and maintains the integrity of the hormone therapy regimen.
Overall, the working of the hormone therapy pill dispenser is based on a synchronized process that integrates automated dispensing, adaptive reminders, secure access, connectivity, and continuous operation. The combination of these features ensures that patients receive accurate doses of hormone medication at the prescribed intervals, enhancing adherence and optimizing therapy outcomes. By providing a reliable and user-friendly solution, the dispenser improves medication management, reduces the risk of missed doses, and promotes better health outcomes for patients undergoing hormone therapy.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION:
The prime advantage of the invention is to provide accurate, automated dispensing of hormone pills at pre-programmed intervals, ensuring consistent medication adherence and reducing the risk of missed doses or incorrect intake.
Another advantage of the invention is its integrated multi-modal reminder system, which uses auditory, visual, and tactile alerts. This improves notification effectiveness for diverse sensory needs, enhancing adherence and supporting treatment outcomes.
Yet another advantage of the invention is the user-friendly programmable interface, allowing easy customization of dosing schedules. It accommodates daily, weekly, or multiple-dose regimens, making it adaptable to various hormone therapy requirements.
Still another advantage of the invention is the secure locking mechanism, which prevents unauthorized access and tampering. This feature ensures safety by dispensing only the prescribed dose at the scheduled time.
An additional advantage of the invention is its connectivity features, enabling synchronization with mobile devices. This allows real-time notifications, refill alerts, and remote monitoring, improving adherence and therapy management.
Another advantage of the invention is its learning algorithm, which analyzes adherence patterns and adjusts reminder frequencies. This adaptive feature personalizes alerts, increasing the likelihood of consistent medication intake.
Yet another advantage of the invention is its portable, compact design, allowing users to carry the dispenser conveniently. This supports medication adherence both at home and during travel, promoting uninterrupted therapy.
An additional advantage of the invention is its battery backup system, which ensures continuous operation during power outages. This feature maintains medication adherence without interruption, even in areas with unreliable power supply.
Another advantage of the invention is its versatility in accommodating various pill sizes and shapes, making it compatible with different hormone medications. This reduces the need for multiple devices, simplifying medication management.
Finally, the invention's mobile application interface provides users with adherence analytics, dosage history reports, and user support, enhancing therapy management. This comprehensive approach promotes better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.
, Claims:1. A hormone therapy pill dispenser with an integrated reminder system (100), comprising:
a. an automated dispensing mechanism (10) configured to store and release hormone pills at pre-programmed intervals,
b. a programmable interface (20) allowing users to set specific dosing schedules,
c. a multi-modal reminder system (30) incorporating auditory, visual, and tactile alerts to notify users when medication is due,
d. a secure locking mechanism (40) preventing unauthorized access or tampering, ensuring that only the prescribed dose is dispensed,
e. connectivity features (50) enabling synchronization with mobile devices for real-time notifications, adherence tracking, and remote monitoring,
f. a learning algorithm that analyzes adherence patterns and adjusts reminder frequency to optimize medication intake,
g. a portable and compact design that allows for home and travel use, and
h. a battery backup system (60) to ensure continuous operation during power interruptions.
2. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the multi-modal reminder system includes customizable sounds, LED indicators, and vibration alerts, providing diverse notification options suitable for patients with different sensory needs.
3. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the programmable interface is adapted to accommodate daily, weekly, or multiple-dose schedules, allowing flexible customization based on patient-specific hormone therapy requirements.
4. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the connectivity features include Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing synchronization with a dedicated mobile application for notifications, refill alerts, adherence history tracking, and remote monitoring by caregivers or healthcare professionals.
5. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the secure locking mechanism is activated to release only the pre-set dose at the programmed time, minimizing the risk of overdose or out-of-sequence medication intake.
6. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the learning algorithm adjusts the alert system based on the user's adherence history, enhancing the personalization of the reminder system by increasing the alert frequency during periods when doses are more likely to be missed.
7. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the portable design includes a lightweight construction and a simple refill mechanism, allowing the device to be easily carried and refilled, thus ensuring continuous adherence to the prescribed hormone therapy.
8. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the battery backup system is configured to maintain operational continuity, preventing interruptions in medication dispensing during power outages, thereby ensuring consistent adherence.
9. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the dispenser is capable of accommodating various pill sizes and shapes, making it versatile and compatible with different hormone medications.
10. The pill dispenser of claim 1, wherein the mobile application interface provides additional features such as medication adherence analytics, dosage history reports, and user support for enhanced therapy management.

Documents