The final prototype is a flip-top pill bottle cap that uses an ultrasonic distance sensor to determine whether the pill bottle has been opened and thus if the medication has been taken. Input comes from the ultrasonic distance sensor and user input from an app (more on the app further down).
Users interpret output in the form of colored/ blinking LED lights and a 7-digit display showing their dosage. Red and green LEDs were used despite the occurrence of red/green colorblindness because we determined that following conventional go/stop signals would make for better interpretability for most users. A slow blink was incorporated into the go signal in order to keep the device functional for colorblind users.
Device Code
App
In making the prototype, the corresponding app was not fully coded but its functions were outlined:
- Input
- Dosage/Schedule
- Number of pills in bottle
- Bottle length
- Alarm preferences
The user or the user’s caretaker inputs critical information regarding the user’s medication schedule. This enables the device to remind user to take medication at appropriate times and to remind the user to refill their medication when it’s running low.
- Output
- Visual and audio reminders to take medication
- Interface with device for alarms, dose display, and LED indicator
Visual and audio signals on the bottle inform user on whether they have taken their medication. Further reminders and alarms are set in the app, including alarms if bottle has been left open or if medication has not been taken by a certain time.
- Other Capabilities
- Sensor diagnostic
- Device reset/override
- Log refills/send refill reminders
The app will be able to temporarily turn off the device for the purpose of changing out an empty medication bottle or resetting after an error. It will also be able to run a diagnostic on the sensor to ensure proper function.
Demonstation
View Design Review 3 for more information on RemindRx.