System Components

At the heart of the Hugs® system is the Hugs tag. This small radio transmitter incorporates an anti-tamper mechanism that is enabled as soon as the tag is attached to the infant with the tamper-proof strap: the tag is automatically enrolled into the system software and protected. From this time forward, the tag emits a signal every 10 seconds to indicate it is present and functioning. The BabySense™ feature of the system also notifies you if the Hugs tag is not securely on the infant, either because it was attached too loosely or due to weight loss. You are given timely notice to snug up the tag so that it is securely attached.

The Hugs tags are waterproof, hypoallergenic, reusable and carry a one year warranty.

The Kisses Tag

The Kisses® tag is part of the Kisses mother/infant matching option of the Hugs system. The Kisses tag is given to a new mother after it has been bonded with the Hugs tag attached to her baby. Every time mom and baby are brought together, an audible signal from the infant’s tag immediately alerts staff of a mismatch—even if there are other infants in the room.

The Kisses tag weighs just 1 oz., and is styled like a classic wristwatch. It can be attached with a standard hospital band, or any other strap of your choice.

Local Area Receivers

Local Area Receivers (LARs), radio frequency reception devices, are installed at regular intervals throughout the monitored area of the facility. LARs receive the Hugs tag transmissions, time stamp them, and relay them to the Controller PC via a LonWorks® network. LARs are installed in ceilings, usually out of view.

The Controller PC monitors the operation of each LAR to ensure a high level of operational confidence. If the LAR fails to operate for any reason, an alarm occurs.

Exciters

Exciters monitor the exits from the safe area (usually the OB unit). Installed above or beside the doorway, the Exciter emits a detection field that covers the opening. When a tag enters the field, it immediately transmits a special message to the Controller PC via the LARs. In a typical installation (with door contacts connected to the Exciter), an alarm will only occur if the door is open, as the infant is then at immediate risk of being removed without authorization. Once an alarm occurs, an exit alarm message is automatically generated at all system PCs.

Each Exciter also includes two relays, which can be used to control a variety of devices, including magnetic door locks or audio and visual alarm devices. Optional keypads may be connected at the door to allow staff to sign out infants using their password.

Exciters may also be placed strategically throughout the hospital to allow the progress of an abduction attempt to be monitored.

Controller PC

The Windows®-based Controller PC contains the software that controls the operation of the entire system. The software displays facility floor plans and relevant system data, including the status of all Hugs tags. Typically located at a nursing station or at a facility’s security station, the computer monitors and controls all system operations. The Controller PC is equipped with a watchdog timer card to output an alarm signal and reset the computer in the unlikely event of a problem with the hugs system software or the operating system, providing an extra level of security.

Additional computers can be connected at other locations throughout the facility over a local area network (LAN). Nurses, security personnel and administrators can all access the system simultaneously.

The software offers advanced control through an intuitive user interface. Designed for ease-of-use, the software presents only task-critical information to the operator. Different levels of password access ensure security while allowing staff members to perform their jobs efficiently. User accounts can be created and authority assigned according to each facility’s requirements.

The software records all activity, including alarms, in a database. A variety of reports of system activity can be viewed on-screen and printed. Custom reports can be created, and the database can be exported for use with third-party software programs.

The Network

Each Local Area Receiver and Exciter is connected to the Controller PC through a hard-wired LonWorks® network, over which all system activity is communicated.

Each device on the network is continually monitored by the Controller PC, and a warning message will automatically appear in the software if a problem is detected. Devices receive power from a central 12/24 V power supply.