Test Unit Cartridge for Analyte Testing Device

Abstract

A test unit cartridge for holding a plurality of test units includes a first test unit that contains a first analyte sensor and a second test unit that contains a second analyte sensor. The first and second analyte sensors use first and second reagents to detect first and second analytes, respectively. The first analyte is different from the second analyte and the first and second test units are functionally non-fungible. The plurality of test units can also include a third test unit that contains two analyte sensors having two reagents for detecting two different analytes using one fluid sample. A method of using the test unit cartridge is also described, which comprises loading the cartridge into an analyte testing device and cocking an actuator of the device that is configured to (i) expose an analyte sensor of a test unit, (ii) ready a lancet, and (iii) advance a lancet cartridge.

Description

[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 187,397 filed Jul. 20, 2011, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 165,621 filed Jun. 21, 2011, which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The field of the invention is analyte testing supplies, more specifically, test unit cartridges.BACKGROUND[0003]Analyte testing devices play a critical roll in modern diagnosis and management of health-related issues. For example, a sample of human blood, urine, and / or saliva can be tested for glucose, fructosamine, hematocrit, hemoglobin blood oxygen saturation, lactates, iron, pH, cholesterol, liver enzymes (AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase / GGT, LDH, bilirubin, etc), hormones, and other compounds.[0004]For many diabetic patients, monitoring glucose levels is inconvenient and uncomfortable, since it requires repeatedly pricking the finger or some other body member in order to draw a blood samp...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]In another aspect of some preferred embodiments, the cartridge includes a “sacrificial” test unit disposed at a beginning of an order of use of the cartridge. The sacrificial test unit is configured to provide a moisture barrier by corking and sealing all apertures of the cartridge. The “sacrificial” test unit can optionally include at least two analyte sensors for detecting multiple analytes. It is also contemplated that each test unit can include features that cork the apertures of the cartridge such that the test units are protected from moisture and dust when not in use.

Problems solved by technology

For many diabetic patients, monitoring glucose levels is inconvenient and uncomfortable, since it requires repeatedly pricking the finger or some other body member in order to draw a blood sample.

However, none of those references teach a cartridge (i.e., a magazine, cassette or other housing or enclosure) for holding two or more non-fungible test units.

However, Schulat fails to contemplate that a magazine can hold test units that test for different analytes.

Smith, however, still does not contemplate a cassette that carries two or more different types of test units (i.e., non-fungible test units).

Thus, while known prior art has appreciated the advantages of a test unit that tests for two or more analytes, the known prior art has failed to provide a cartridge for holding a plurality of test units, wherein at least two of the test units are non-fungible (e.g., a first test unit configured to detect a first analyte and a second test unit configured to test a second analyte that is different from the first analyte).

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