Analyte detection device

Abstract

This invention discloses an analyte detection device. A pin is provided on the signal output terminal of the sensor, and an electrode is provided on the detection terminal. The pin and electrode are connected by a wire and arranged on the same side of an insulated sensor substrate. The pin faces the sensor substrate, and an external circuit connects the pin to an elastic conductor, which in turn connects to the electrical connection area of ​​the transmitter. After changing the orientation of the pin at the signal output terminal, the sensor substrate no longer bends. When installing the analyte detection device, the auxiliary needle can easily insert the sensor into the user's skin, improving the sensor's detection reliability.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority of the following patent application: PCT patent application filed on May 31, 2021, application number PCT / CN2021 / 097173. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates primarily to the field of medical devices, and in particular to an analytical substance detection device. Background Technology

[0004] In a healthy person, the pancreas automatically monitors blood glucose levels and secretes the necessary insulin / glucagon. However, in diabetic patients, the pancreas malfunctions and cannot secrete insulin as needed. Therefore, diabetes is a metabolic disease caused by abnormal pancreatic function and is a lifelong condition. Currently, medical technology cannot cure diabetes; it can only control the occurrence and development of diabetes and its complications by stabilizing blood sugar levels.

[0005] Diabetic patients need to have their blood sugar checked before injecting insulin. Most current testing methods can continuously monitor blood sugar and send the data in real time to a remote device for user viewing; this method is called Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). This method requires a testing device to be attached to the skin surface, with its probe inserted into the subcutaneous tissue fluid to complete the test.

[0006] In existing analyte detection devices, before installation, the base of the sensor's detection end is bent away from the auxiliary needle, which hinders the insertion of the detection end into the user's skin and affects the sensor's detection reliability. This is because electrodes are arranged on one side of the detection end base, causing the base to bend towards the side without electrodes. The electrodes and the pins on the signal output terminal are located on the same side of the base, with the pins facing the transmitter to facilitate electrical connection via an elastic conductor to the transmitter's electrical connection area. Therefore, before installation, with the electrode-bearing side of the sensor base facing the auxiliary needle, the base bends away from the auxiliary needle.

[0007] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a more reliable analyte detection device in the current technology. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This invention discloses an analyte detection device. A pin is provided on the signal output terminal of the sensor, and an electrode is provided on the detection terminal. The pin and electrode are connected by a wire and arranged on the same side of an insulated sensor substrate. The pin faces the sensor substrate, and an external circuit connects the pin to an elastic conductor, which in turn connects to the electrical connection area of ​​the transmitter. When the pin at the signal output terminal is reversed, the side of the substrate without the electrode faces the auxiliary needle. The substrate will bend towards the auxiliary needle. Due to the obstruction of the auxiliary needle, the sensor substrate no longer bends. When installing the analyte detection device, the auxiliary needle can smoothly insert the sensor into the user's skin, improving the detection reliability of the sensor.

[0009] This invention discloses an analyte detection device, comprising: a transmitter having an electrical connection area; a base housing having a sensor base; a sensor having a signal output terminal and a detection terminal, the signal output terminal having a pin and the detection terminal having an electrode, the pin and the electrode being connected by a wire, the pin, the wire, and the electrode being arranged on an insulating substrate and located on the same side of the substrate, with the pin facing the sensor base; an elastic conductor having spaced-apart conductive areas and insulating areas, the conductive areas being electrically connected to the electrical connection area; and an external circuit, the pin and the elastic conductor being electrically connected through the external circuit.

[0010] According to one aspect of the invention, the elastic conductor has a cuboid structure.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, a first surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with a signal output terminal, a second surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with an external circuit, and a third surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with an electrical connection region.

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, a first surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with a signal output terminal and an external circuit, and a third surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with an electrical connection region.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, the external circuit is a three-dimensional circuit laid on the sensor base.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, the external circuit is one of a conductive gel, conductive paste, conductive coating, conductive tape or conductive adhesive applied to the sensor base.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the first surface of the elastic conductor is opposite to the third surface.

[0016] According to one aspect of the invention, the conductive region and the insulating region pass through the elastic conductor in the longitudinal direction, respectively.

[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, conductive and insulating regions surround the surface of the elastic conductor.

[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, the conductive regions are spaced-apart elastic conductors, and the insulating regions are air regions that separate the conductive regions.

[0019] According to one aspect of the invention, the elastic conductor is one of conductive strips, conductive foam, or conductive foam.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, the signal output end is bent relative to the detection end, and the signal output end is laid flat on the sensor base.

[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, the electrical connection area is a metal conductive contact.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the number of metal conductive contacts is the same as the number of pins.

[0023] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the present invention has the following advantages:

[0024] In the analyte detection device disclosed in this invention, the pins are arranged facing the sensor base. An external circuit connects the pins to an elastic conductor, which in turn connects them to the electrical connection area of ​​the transmitter. When the pins at the signal output end are reversed, the side of the base without electrodes faces the auxiliary needle. The base bends towards the auxiliary needle, but due to the obstruction of the auxiliary needle, the sensor base no longer bends. Therefore, when installing the analyte detection device, the auxiliary needle can smoothly insert the sensor into the user's skin, improving the sensor's detection reliability.

[0025] Furthermore, the elastic conductor includes spaced conductive and insulating regions, which can simultaneously achieve conductivity between circuits and insulation between different circuits. It has a compact structure and is convenient for the integrated design of analyte detection devices.

[0026] Furthermore, the elastic conductor has a rectangular structure, which facilitates stable placement and fixation on the sensor base, preventing loosening and improving the reliability of the analyte detection device.

[0027] Furthermore, the first surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with the sensor signal output terminal, that is, the elastic conductor is placed on the signal output terminal, which saves the installation space of the elastic conductor and facilitates the integrated design of the analyte detection device.

[0028] Furthermore, the second side of the elastic conductor contacts the external circuit, and the third side contacts the electrical connection area of ​​the transmitter, making full use of the structural characteristics of the cuboid elastic conductor and facilitating circuit design.

[0029] Furthermore, the external circuit is a three-dimensional circuit laid on the sensor base. The three-dimensional circuit can be laid along the frame structure of the base without occupying additional space, which is conducive to the integrated design of the analyte detection device.

[0030] Furthermore, by bending the signal output end relative to the detection end and laying the signal output end flat on the sensor base, the installation height of the sensor can be reduced, thereby reducing the overall thickness of the analyte detection device and improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the bottom shell according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of a sensor mounted on a base according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of a single-sided electrode sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a transmitter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figures 4a-4b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an elastic conductor, pins, and electrical connection regions according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4a This is a top view. Figure 4b for Figure 4a Side view of the structure;

[0036] Figure 4c This is a top view of the structure of an elastic conductor and a pin according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figures 4d-4e This is a top view schematic diagram of the elastic conductor, pin, and electrical connection area according to different embodiments of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an elastic conductor, pins, and electrical connection areas according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figures 6a-6b This is a structural schematic diagram of the electrical connection region and the electrical connection position of the elastic conductor according to different embodiments of the present invention;

[0040] Figures 7a-7b This is a schematic diagram of the structure according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing the elastic conductor being electrically connected to the pins and the electrical connection area respectively. Figure 7b For along Figure 7a Cross-sectional view obtained by the middle section line A-A';

[0041] Figures 8a-8b This is a schematic diagram of the structure according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing the elastic conductor being electrically connected to the pins and the electrical connection area respectively. Figure 8b For along Figure 8a Cross-sectional view obtained by the middle section line B-B';

[0042] Figure 9a This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electrical connection region according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 9b To and Figure 9a A three-dimensional structural diagram of the elastic conductor that cooperates with the electrical connection area and the signal output terminal;

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a structure in which the signal output terminal is disposed on the top of an elastic conductor according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing that different parts of the signal output terminal are disposed at different positions on the elastic conductor according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 12a This is a schematic diagram showing the bending of the detection end of the sensor when it is mounted upright on the base according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 12b This is a schematic diagram of the detection end when the sensor is inverted and mounted on the base according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the sensor being mounted upside down on the base according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a three-dimensional electrode sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional electrode sensor mounted on a base according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0051] As mentioned earlier, in existing analyte detection devices, the base of the sensor detection end is bent away from the auxiliary needle before installation, making it difficult to insert into the user's skin during installation and affecting the sensor's detection reliability.

[0052] To address this issue, the present invention provides an analyte detection device with pins arranged facing the sensor base. An external circuit connects the pins to an elastic conductor, which in turn connects to the electrical connection area of ​​the transmitter. When the pins at the signal output end are reversed, the side of the base without electrodes faces the auxiliary needle. The base bends towards the auxiliary needle, but due to the obstruction of the auxiliary needle, the sensor base no longer bends. During installation of the analyte detection device, the auxiliary needle can smoothly insert the sensor into the user's skin, improving the sensor's detection reliability.

[0053] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0054] Furthermore, it should be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various components shown in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to actual scale; for example, the thickness, width, length, or distance of some units may be enlarged relative to other structures.

[0055] The following description of exemplary embodiments is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the invention or its application or use in any way. Techniques, methods, and apparatus known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail herein, but where applicable, such techniques, methods, and apparatus should be considered part of this specification.

[0056] It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined or described in a figure, it will not need to be discussed further in the subsequent description of the figures.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the bottom shell 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of the sensor 113 mounted on the base 111 according to an embodiment of the present invention. (Refer to reference...) Figure 1 and Figure 2a , and will be explained in detail.

[0058] The bottom shell 10 is used to assemble the sensor 113 and the transmitter 12. In an embodiment of the present invention, the bottom surface of the bottom shell 10 is provided with an assembly hole 101 for assisting in the installation of the sensor 113, and a first engaging structure 102 is provided around the assembly hole 101 to assist in installing the sensor 113 onto the bottom shell 10. Figure 2a and Figure 3 The side wall of the bottom shell 10 is also provided with a second engaging part 104 for fixing the transmitter 12. Correspondingly, the transmitter 12 is provided with a first engaging part 123 that can engage with the second engaging part 104.

[0059] In this embodiment of the invention, there are two second engaging portions 104, and the two second engaging portions 104 are respectively disposed on the side wall of the bottom shell 10.

[0060] In other embodiments of the present invention, there are four second engaging portions 104, which are disposed on opposite sidewalls of the bottom shell 10, with two on each side.

[0061] In other embodiments of the present invention, the number of second engaging portions 104 is six, and the six second engaging portions 104 are correspondingly disposed on the side wall of the bottom shell 10, with two on each side.

[0062] In this embodiment of the invention, bending the force-applying part can cause the bottom shell to fail. The failure modes of the bottom shell include one or more combinations of the following: the bottom plate of the bottom shell 10 is broken, the bottom shell is damaged, the second engaging part is broken, and the bottom shell is deformed. In short, after the bottom shell fails, the first engaging part 123 and the second engaging part 104 are disengaged, and the transmitter 12 can be detached from the bottom shell 10. Since the electrical connection part is not located in the force-applying part, the user will not damage the electrical connection part when disassembling the transmitter 12. After replacing the bottom shell 10, the transmitter 12 is installed on the new bottom shell without affecting the electrical connection between the electrical connection part 122 and the pin 116 of the new bottom shell, thus ensuring the stability of the electrical connection.

[0063] In this embodiment of the invention, the fixing part and the force-applying part are relative concepts. Depending on the structural design of the bottom shell 10 and the transmitter 12, the positions of the fixing part and the force-applying part can be selected differently.

[0064] In other embodiments of the present invention, the line l connecting the two second engaging portions 104 divides the bottom shell 10 into an X side and a Y side. A force-applying portion is provided on the Y side, and a fixing portion is provided on the X side.

[0065] Therefore, in this embodiment of the invention, the process of separating the bottom shell 10 and the transmitter 12 is as follows: use one finger to fix the fixing part on the X side, and use another finger to apply a force F to the force application part on the Y side in one direction, so that the second engaging part 104 fails, thereby separating the second engaging part 104 from the first engaging part 123, and separating the transmitter 12 from the bottom shell 10.

[0066] In this embodiment of the invention, the force-applying part is the outward protrusion 103 on the side of the bottom shell. The shape, size and number of the protrusion 103 are not limited. Preferably, the protrusion 103 is semi-circular, which makes it convenient for users to press with their fingers and saves space, ensuring a smaller and more compact bottom shell structure.

[0067] In other embodiments of the present invention, the bottom shell 10 may also be of other shapes, as long as it can meet the condition of mounting the transmitter 12 and the sensor 113 on the bottom shell 10, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0068] There are various ways to mount the sensor 113 onto the base shell 10, and no specific limitation is made here. Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the base shell 10 includes a sensor base 111. The sensor 113 is mounted onto the base shell 10 via the sensor base 111. A second engaging structure 112 is provided around the sensor base 111. The second engaging structure 112 engages with the first engaging structure 102 to mount the sensor base 111 into the mounting hole 101, thereby mounting the sensor 113 onto the base shell 10.

[0069] In another embodiment of the invention, after the sensor 113 is mounted on the bottom shell 10, the auxiliary mounting structure of the sensor 113 is removed, and the sensor 113 is not supported by the sensor base 111 or other components, but is mounted on the bottom shell 10 alone.

[0070] In other embodiments of the present invention, the sensor 113 may also be assembled onto the housing 10 in other assembly methods, without specific limitations.

[0071] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the invention, the sensor base 111 is also provided with a sealing ring 130 and a groove 131 for placing the sealing ring 130.

[0072] Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of a single-sided electrode sensor structure. Please refer to the reference. Figure 2a , Figure 2b The sensor 113 includes a signal output terminal 113a and a detection terminal 113b. The signal output terminal 113a needs to be electrically connected to the electrical connection area 122 of the transmitter 12 to transmit the detection signal to the transmitter 12. The detection terminal 113b is used to penetrate the subcutaneous tissue of the human body to detect the parameter information of the body fluid analyte.

[0073] The signal output terminal 113a is provided with mutually insulated pins 116. Typically, the sensor 113 also includes electrodes and / or electrode leads for detecting analyte parameter information. The detection signal from the electrodes needs to be output through pin 116.

[0074] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present invention do not limit the arrangement of pin 116 on signal output terminal 113a. For example, pin 116 may be disposed on the surface of signal output terminal 113a or embedded in signal output terminal 113a.

[0075] Generally, the sensor 113 has at least two detection electrodes, namely, at least a working electrode and a counter electrode. Therefore, in the embodiment of the present invention, the surface of the signal output terminal 113a has at least two pins 116 for electrical connection with different electrodes. Specifically, in the embodiment of the present invention, the sensor 113 is a three-electrode system, namely a working electrode, a counter electrode, and a reference electrode. Therefore, the number of pins 116 is three.

[0076] like Figure 2a As shown, in an embodiment of the present invention, the signal output terminal 113a is bent or folded towards the bottom surface of the base 10. The signal output terminal 113a is attached to the surface of the sensor base 111 or embedded in the sensor base 111. This design reduces the height of the sensor 113 protruding from the base 10, thereby reducing the thickness of the detection device.

[0077] In other embodiments of the present invention, the sensor 113 may also be other shapes or forms (such as non-bent), and no specific limitation is made here.

[0078] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the transmitter 12 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] The transmitter 12 is provided with mutually insulated electrical connection areas 122. The electrical connection area 122 is used to electrically connect with the pin 116, thereby receiving electrical signals from the sensor 113. Therefore, the electrical connection area 122 corresponds to the pin 116.

[0080] Here, "corresponding" means that the two are equal in number and their positions are basically corresponding. Obviously, in this embodiment of the invention, there are three electrical connection areas 122 to match the three-electrode system of the sensor 113.

[0081] In this embodiment of the invention, the electrical connection area 122 is exposed and protrudes from the transmitter housing 121. Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the electrical connection area 122 is a metal conductive contact. Preferably, a smaller metal conductive contact allows for a more compact internal structure of the detection device, further reducing the size of the detection device.

[0082] In this embodiment of the invention, a battery (not shown) is disposed inside the transmitter housing 121. In other embodiments, the battery may also be disposed in the bottom housing 10 for providing power to the transmitter 12.

[0083] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present invention do not limit the shape or position of the electrical connection area 122. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, the electrical connection area 122 does not protrude from the surface of the transmitter housing 121, but is flush with the surface of the transmitter housing 121. In another embodiment of the present invention, the electrical connection area 122 is located inside the transmitter housing 121, as will be described in detail below. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the cross-section of the electrical connection area is rectangular or circular. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the conductive portion of the electrical connection area is disposed on the surface of the connector, or the electrical connection area 122 itself is the connector. The connector can be inserted into the same elastic conductor, as will be described in detail below.

[0084] Figure 4aThis is a top view of an elastic conductor, pin, and electrical connection area according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4b for Figure 4a Side view of a medium elastic conductor. Figure 4c This is a top view of the structure of an elastic conductor and pins according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figures 4d-4e This is a top view of the elastic conductor, pins, and electrical connection area in different embodiments of the present invention.

[0085] First of all, it should be pointed out that Figure 4a The thin dashed line represents the outline of the portion of the pin covered by the elastic conductor, and the thick dashed line represents the outline of the portion of the signal output terminal covered by the elastic conductor. The thin and thick dashed lines in the subsequent figures have the same meaning as here, and will not be repeated below.

[0086] The detection device of this embodiment includes an elastic conductor 114. The elastic conductor 114 is in contact with the signal output terminal 113a. Using only one elastic conductor 114 reduces the number of internal structures in the detection device. Furthermore, the elastic material deforms under pressure, thus providing a locking effect. Therefore, the elastic conductor 114, whether used as a conductive structure or as an auxiliary structure for electrical connections, can be more tightly connected to each other, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection.

[0087] In one embodiment of the present invention, a signal output terminal 113a is disposed at the bottom (first surface) of the elastic conductor 114, and a pin 116 is indirectly electrically connected to the corresponding electrical connection area 122. Here, the bottom of the elastic conductor 114 refers to the portion of the elastic conductor 114 close to the skin.

[0088] At this point, the elastic conductor 114 includes at least two conductive regions 114a and at least one insulating region 114b. The conductive regions 114a and the insulating regions 114b respectively serve to conduct electricity and provide electrical insulation. The conductive regions 114a and the insulating regions 114b cannot be separated from each other; that is, the conductive regions 114a and the insulating regions 114b are each part of the overall elastic conductor 114.

[0089] An insulating region 114b is provided between adjacent conductive regions 114a. Different pins 116 or different electrical connection regions 122 are electrically connected to different conductive regions 114a, thereby making any two pins 116 or any two electrical connection regions 122 electrically insulated from each other.

[0090] Inside the elastic conductor 114, the conductive region 114a and the insulating region 114b pass through the elastic conductor 114 in the longitudinal direction, such as Figure 4bAs shown. Here, the longitudinal direction refers to the direction from pin 116 to the corresponding electrical connection area 122, or the direction of current between pin 116 and electrical connection area 122. When pin 116 is electrically connected to electrical connection area 122, this design ensures that the elastic conductor 114 can only conduct electricity longitudinally and not laterally. The elastic conductor 114 connects pin 116 to the corresponding electrical connection area 122 while simultaneously insulating different pins 116 or different electrical connection areas 122. One elastic conductor 114 simultaneously serves the functions of electrical conduction and electrical insulation, reducing the complexity of the internal structure of the detection device, making the internal structure more compact, and improving the reliability of the electrical connections of the detection device.

[0091] It should be noted that in other embodiments of the present invention, the conductive region 114a or the insulating region 114b may also have a certain inclination, or be arranged in other directions or in other ways inside the elastic conductor 114. There are no specific limitations here, as long as the above-mentioned conditions of electrical conduction and electrical insulation can be met.

[0092] Please refer to the reference. Figure 2a , Figure 4a and Figure 4b Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the elastic conductor 114 has a cuboid structure. Conductive regions 114a and insulating regions 114b are spaced apart and respectively penetrate the elastic conductor 114. In another embodiment of the invention, different conductive regions 114a are arranged within the same insulating region 114b, i.e., surrounded by the same insulating region 114b, such as... Figure 4d As shown. In another embodiment of the invention, the top view of the elastic conductor 114 may be annular, as shown. Figure 4e As shown. In another embodiment of the present invention, the top view of the elastic conductor 114 may also be circular.

[0093] In other embodiments of the present invention, the elastic conductor 114 may have other shapes, which are not specifically limited here, as long as they can meet the conditions for realizing the above-mentioned functions of the elastic conductor 114.

[0094] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 4a and Figure 4b When the elastic conductor 114 is electrically connected to the pin 116 and the electrical connection area 122 respectively, an insulating region 114b is spaced between any two pins 116 connected to the elastic conductor 114. Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the insulating region 114b between any two pins 116 includes a portion of an insulating region 114b (e.g., Figure 4a and Figure 4b Between 116a and 116b), or one insulation region 114b, or more than one insulation region 114b (e.g. Figure 4a and Figure 4b Between 116c and 116b). Similarly, the insulating region 114b separating any two electrical connection regions 122 connected to the elastic conductor 114 includes a portion of an insulating region 114b, or an insulating region 114b, or more than one insulating region 114b. However, it is obvious that the pin and the corresponding electrical connection region (such as between 116a and 122a, between 116b and 122b, or between 116c and 122c) share a conductive region 114a to achieve electrical conduction between them. The conductive region of the common portion includes a portion of a conductive region 114a (such as between 116c and 122a, between 116b and 122b, or between 116c and 122c). Figure 4a and Figure 4b (between 116c and 122c), or one conductive region 114a, or more than one conductive region 114a.

[0095] Combination Figure 4a and Figure 4b Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the aforementioned part of an insulating or conductive region, an insulating or conductive region, and more than one insulating or conductive region are merely the span of the pin or electrical connection area in a one-dimensional direction (such as the direction of the conductive region arrangement).

[0096] In other embodiments of the invention, a portion of an insulating or conductive region, an insulating or conductive region, and more than one insulating or conductive region may also represent the coverage of a pin or electrical connection area over the insulating or conductive region in a two-dimensional direction (in area), such as... Figure 4c As shown. Taking the pin as an example, Figure 4c The dashed lines in the diagram represent partial outlines of the pin. Clearly, pin 116 can cover a portion of an insulating or conductive region, or one or more insulating or conductive regions.

[0097] Clearly, when the number or range of conductive or insulating regions between the above structures is large, the reliability of electrical connections or electrical insulation between the structures will be significantly improved.

[0098] In this embodiment of the invention, the material of the elastic conductor 114 includes elastic plastic, elastic rubber, etc. Using the elastic conductor 114 can achieve better electrical contact while also providing a buffering effect. When the material of the elastic conductor 114 is elastic rubber, the elastic conductor 114 is an elastic conductor. An elastic conductor simultaneously functions as both a conductor and an insulator, and also provides a buffering effect.

[0099] Clearly, when the sensor 113 is a two-electrode system, there are two pins and two electrical connection areas. In this case, the elastic conductor 114 only needs to include two conductive areas 114a and an insulating area 114b disposed between the two conductive areas 114a. That is, two different pairs of pins and electrical connection areas are electrically connected through different conductive areas 114a to achieve electrical conduction. At the same time, the two pins or two electrical connection areas are separated by the insulating area to achieve electrical insulation.

[0100] Other embodiments of the sensor of the present invention may include more electrodes. Therefore, the elastic conductor 114 includes more conductive and insulating regions spaced apart from each other, allowing for more flexible electrical connections, such as... Figure 5 As shown.

[0101] It should be noted that in other embodiments of the present invention, the sensor includes at least three electrodes, that is, the signal output terminal 113a is provided with at least three pins, of which at least two pins are electrically connected to the corresponding electrical connection area through different conductive areas 114a, and the connection method and principle are the same as described above. For other pins and electrical connection areas not connected to the elastic conductor 114, the embodiments of the present invention do not limit their connection method or connection principle. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor is a three-electrode system, in which only the working electrode and the counter electrode are electrically connected to the electrical connection area through the above-mentioned elastic conductor by their corresponding pins, while the reference electrode is electrically connected to the transmitter in other ways.

[0102] Figures 6a-6b This is a schematic diagram showing the structural positions of the electrical connection region 122 and the elastic conductor 114 in different embodiments of the present invention.

[0103] For ease of labeling and description, Figure 6a and Figure 6b The electrical connection region 122 and the elastic conductor 114 will be shown separately.

[0104] like Figure 6a As shown, in this embodiment of the invention, the electrical connection area 122 is a protruding, spherical, cap-shaped metal conductive contact. Correspondingly, the elastic conductor 114 has a recess (not shown) at the position where it connects with the protruding metal conductive contact, making the connection tighter. Simultaneously, this connection between the protrusion and the recess also serves to fix the position of the elastic conductor 114; that is, regardless of the external force applied to the detection device, the position of the elastic conductor 114 remains fixed and does not shift, ensuring that the elastic conductor 114 performs normal conductive and insulating functions.

[0105] It should be noted that the elastic conductor 114 may not have a recess. When pressed by the protruding metal conductive contact, a recess that matches the metal conductive contact will automatically appear on the elastic conductor 114, ensuring the function of electrical connection or electrical insulation.

[0106] like Figure 6b As shown, in another embodiment of the present invention, the electrical connection region 122 is disposed inside the transmitter 12. In this case, a corresponding protrusion (not shown) is disposed on the elastic conductor 114, which can enter the interior of the transmitter 12 and be electrically connected to the corresponding electrical connection region 122.

[0107] Figures 7a-7b This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the present invention, showing the structure in which the elastic conductor 214 is electrically connected to the pins and the electrical connection area. Figure 7a This is a top view. Figure 7b For along Figure 7a The cross-sectional view obtained by the mid-section line A-A'.

[0108] In this embodiment of the invention, the three electrical connection regions 222a, 222b, and 222c are indirectly electrically connected to the three pins 216a, 216b, and 216c, respectively. The arrangement of the conductive region 214a and the insulating region 214b in the elastic conductor 214 is described above.

[0109] For details, please refer to Figure 7b In this embodiment of the invention, the signal output terminal 213a is embedded inside the elastic conductor 214. Therefore, all three pins 216a, 216b, and 216c are embedded inside the elastic conductor 214. To fix the position of the sensor, the signal output terminal 213a and the detection terminal 231b are supported by the sensor base 211.

[0110] The principle and method of the elastic conductor 214 in this embodiment of the invention being electrically connected to the pins and the electrical connection area are the same as those described above.

[0111] Figures 8a-8b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another embodiment of the present invention, in which the elastic conductor is electrically connected to the pins and the electrical connection area. Figure 8a This is a top view. Figure 8b For along Figure 8a The cross-sectional view obtained by the mid-section line B-B'.

[0112] In this embodiment of the invention, different pins are disposed on different portions of the signal output terminal 313a, and these different portions of the signal output terminal 313a are independent of each other and do not interfere with each other. Specifically, all three pins are embedded in the conductive region 314a and / or the insulating region 314b of the elastic conductor. Figure 8b As shown, in this embodiment of the invention, the heights at which the three pins are embedded in the elastic conductor are not exactly equal.

[0113] In actual manufacturing, the thickness of each pin may vary. When the transmitter and sensor are connected, these independent and non-interfering pins can reduce or eliminate the impact of poor contact caused by the aforementioned thickness differences, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection between the three.

[0114] Obviously, in other embodiments of the present invention, only two of the three pins may be embedded in the elastic conductor, and the other pin may be disposed at the bottom of the elastic conductor, or the three pins may be embedded at the same height in the elastic conductor. No specific limitation is made here.

[0115] Figure 9a This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electrical connection region 422 in another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9b To and Figure 9a A three-dimensional structural diagram of the elastic conductor that cooperates with the electrical connection area 422 and the signal output terminal 413a.

[0116] Three electrical connection areas 422a, 422b, and 422c are plug-in components and protrude from the transmitter housing 412. The types of plug-in components are as described above. The elastic conductor has three sockets 401 to mate with the three electrical connection areas. Each of the three electrical connection areas can be inserted into its corresponding socket 401.

[0117] In this embodiment of the invention, the length direction of the socket 401 is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the conductive area 414a or the insulating area 414b. In other embodiments of the invention, both directions can be arbitrarily designed according to requirements. For example, in one embodiment of the invention, the length direction of the socket is parallel to the arrangement direction of the conductive areas. The principle and method of its electrical connection are described above.

[0118] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a structure in another embodiment of the present invention, in which the signal output terminal is disposed on the top of the elastic conductor 514.

[0119] In another embodiment of the present invention, the signal output terminal is disposed on the top of the elastic conductor 514, that is, the signal output terminal is disposed between the elastic conductor 514 and the electrical connection area 522. In this case, the electrical connection area 522 is directly electrically connected to the corresponding pin 516. Therefore, the elastic conductor 514 can be a common elastic conductor or an elastic conductor with a conductive area as described above. Preferably, the electrical connection area 522 is a protruding metal conductive contact. Since the pin 516 is supported by the elastic conductor 514 below, the reliability of the electrical connection between the electrical connection area 522 and the pin 516 is high. Similarly, the shape of the elastic conductor 514 can be chosen in the same way as above, and will not be repeated here.

[0120] As mentioned above, different parts of the signal output terminal can be independent of each other and do not interfere with each other. Preferably, in another embodiment of the present invention, the three pins 516 are respectively disposed in different parts of the signal output terminal. Therefore, the three different parts of the signal output terminal are respectively disposed at different positions of the elastic conductor. For example, pin 516b is disposed at the top of the elastic conductor, pin 516a is embedded inside the elastic conductor 514, and pin 516c is disposed at the bottom of the elastic conductor. Figure 11 As shown. When there are more independent pins 516, the positions of different pins can be arbitrarily selected as needed.

[0121] Figure 12a This is a schematic diagram showing the bending of the detection end when the sensor is mounted upright on the base 111 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12b This is a schematic diagram of the detection end when the sensor is inverted on the base 111 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] When sensor 113 is mounted on base 111, pin 116 on signal output terminal 113a faces the elastic conductor 114, therefore the electrode on detection terminal 113b faces the auxiliary needle 140. Before installing the analyte detection device, the base 113c of detection terminal 113b is bent towards the side without electrodes, forming a shape as shown in the image. Figure 12a As shown, the curved detection end 113b is far from the auxiliary needle 140. When installing the analyte detection device, the curved detection end cannot fit tightly against the auxiliary needle 140, and the auxiliary needle 140 cannot properly insert the detection end 113b into the user's skin, affecting the detection reliability of the sensor 113.

[0123] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the sensor being mounted upside down on the base 111 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] To prevent the detection end 113b from bending before installing the analyte detection device, in this embodiment of the invention, the sensor 113 is mounted upside down on the base 111, with the pin 116 facing the base 111 and the side of the detection end 113b without electrodes facing the auxiliary needle 140. In this case, the base 113c of the detection end 113b will bend towards the auxiliary needle 140, but due to the obstruction of the auxiliary needle 140, the base 113c of the detection end 113b will no longer bend, achieving the desired effect. Figure 12b The effect shown.

[0125] In this embodiment of the invention, after the sensor 113 is flipped, the pin 116 no longer directly contacts the first surface of the elastic conductor 114. Therefore, an external circuit 115 is required to realize the electrical connection between the pin 116 and the elastic conductor 114.

[0126] In one embodiment of the present invention, the external circuit 115 is a three-dimensional circuit laid on the sensor base 111. One end of the three-dimensional circuit contacts the pin 116, and the other end contacts the second surface of the elastic conductor 114. The two ends of the three-dimensional circuit are bent to adapt to the three-dimensional structure of the first and second surfaces of the elastic conductor 114. That is, the three-dimensional circuit realizes the electrical connection between the pin 116 and the second surface of the elastic conductor 114, while the third surface of the elastic conductor 114 is electrically connected to the electrical connection area 122 of the transmitter. The third surface is the surface opposite to the first surface. Since the conductive area surrounds the elastic conductor 114, when the sensor 113 is flipped, the electrical connection between the pin 116 and the electrical connection area 122 is indirectly realized through the three-dimensional circuit and the first, second, and third surfaces of the elastic conductor 114.

[0127] In this embodiment of the invention, the three-dimensional circuit can be fabricated using LDS technology to facilitate the implementation of conductive lines that fit the base frame on the plastic sensor base 111.

[0128] In another embodiment of the present invention, the external circuit 115 is a conductive gel applied to the sensor base 111. The conductive gel is suitable for application on a flat surface, making it impossible to utilize the second surface of the elastic conductor 114. Therefore, in this embodiment, the elastic conductor 114 can be widened, or the signal output terminal 113a of the sensor 113 can be narrowed, allowing the first surface of the elastic conductor 114 to contact one end of the conductive gel, while the other end of the conductive gel is connected to the pin 116. Simultaneously, the third surface of the elastic conductor 114 contacts the electrical connection area 122 of the transmitter, thus indirectly achieving the electrical connection between the pin 116 and the electrical connection area 122.

[0129] In this embodiment of the invention, the electrical connection area 122 has three metal conductive contacts, which is the same as the number of pins 116 of the sensor 113, with each pin 116 corresponding to one metal conductive contact.

[0130] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional electrode sensor structure.

[0131] refer to Figure 14 In this embodiment of the invention, the three-dimensional electrode sensor includes at least two sets of electrodes, respectively arranged on two planes (plane A and plane B) of the substrate 113c. The at least two sets of electrodes can achieve functions such as electrode relay and redundant detection, thereby extending the sensor's service life and improving its detection reliability.

[0132] In some embodiments of the present invention, each group of electrodes may be a dual-electrode system, consisting of a working electrode and a counter electrode. The working electrode and the counter electrode may be arranged on the same side of the substrate or on both sides of the substrate, and are respectively connected to pin 116 (or pin 116') on the same side of the electrode via wires. In other embodiments of the present invention, each group of electrodes may be a three-electrode system, consisting of a working electrode, a counter electrode, and a reference electrode. The working electrode, the counter electrode, and the reference electrode may be arranged on the same side of the substrate or on both sides of the substrate, and are respectively connected to pin 116 (or pin 116') on the same side of the electrode via wires.

[0133] In this embodiment of the invention, whether it is a two-electrode system or a three-electrode system, the pins 116 are distributed on both sides of the sensor substrate 113c. When the elastic conductor 114 contacts the sensor signal output terminal 113a, it can only contact the pins 116' on side A, but cannot contact the pins 116 on side B. Therefore, an external circuit 115 is required to realize the electrical connection between the pins 116 on side B and the elastic conductor 114.

[0134] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a three-dimensional electrode sensor mounted on base 111.

[0135] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 15 In some embodiments of the present invention, the external circuit 115 is a three-dimensional circuit laid on the sensor base 111. One end of the three-dimensional circuit contacts the pin 116 on the B side of the sensor base, and the other end contacts the second side of the elastic conductor 114. Simultaneously, the pin 116' on the A side of the sensor base contacts the first side of the elastic conductor 114, and the third side of the elastic conductor 114 contacts the electrical connection area of ​​the transmitter. The third side is the side opposite to the first side. The two ends of the three-dimensional circuit are bent to adapt to the three-dimensional structure of the first and second sides of the elastic conductor 114. The conductive area and insulating area of ​​the elastic conductor 114 pass through the elastic conductor in the longitudinal direction, or surround the four sides of the elastic conductor, or the conductive area is an elastic conductor with spaced intervals, and the insulating area is the space region in the middle of the conductive area, such as air or vacuum. That is, the three-dimensional circuit indirectly realizes the electrical connection between the pins 116 (116') on both sides of the sensor and the electrical connection area 122 of the transmitter through the elastic conductor 114.

[0136] Continue to refer to Figure 15In some embodiments of the present invention, the external circuit 115 is one of the conductive adhesives such as conductive gel, conductive paste, conductive coating, conductive tape, or conductive glue applied to the sensor base 111. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the external circuit 115 is conductive gel applied to the sensor base 111. As mentioned above, the elastic conductor 114 is widened, or the signal output terminal 113a of the sensor 113 is narrowed, so that the n-side of the first surface of the elastic conductor 114 contacts the n' end of the conductive gel, while the m' end of the conductive gel contacts the pin 116 on the B surface of the sensor. At the same time, the m-side of the first surface of the elastic conductor 114 contacts the pin 116' on the A surface of the sensor, and the third surface contacts the electrical connection area 122. Thus, the conductive gel enables the connection between the double-sided pins 116 (116') of the sensor and the elastic conductor 114, and further enables electrical connection with the electrical connection area 122 of the transmitter.

[0137] In this embodiment of the invention, the number of metal conductive contacts in the electrical connection area 122 is the same as the total number of pins 116 (116'). For example, in a three-dimensional three-electrode system, if there are 6 pins 116 (116'), then the number of metal conductive contacts in the electrical connection area 122 is also 6.

[0138] It is important to note that the individual metal conductive contacts must be insulated from each other, and the connection circuit between pin 116 (116') and the metal conductive contacts must also be insulated from each other. Therefore, pins 116 (116') on side A and side B need to be staggered, as follows: Figure 15 As shown by the solid and dashed lines, different pins 116 (116') can be connected to different conductive areas of the elastic conductor 114, thereby achieving mutual insulation of the connected circuits.

[0139] In this embodiment of the invention, the elastic conductor 114 can be one of the following materials: conductive adhesive strip, conductive foam, or conductive foam. Since the adhesive strip, foam, or foam itself is electrically insulating, it can ensure good insulation between different circuits. By setting spaced conductive areas on the surface of the adhesive strip, foam, or foam, or by having the conductive areas pass through the insulating material in the longitudinal direction of the spaced areas, circuit conduction can be achieved on each surface of the elastic conductor 114.

[0140] In summary, this invention discloses an analyte detection device. A pin is provided on the signal output terminal of the sensor, and an electrode is provided on the detection terminal. The pin and electrode are connected by a wire and arranged on the same side of an insulated sensor substrate. The pin faces the sensor substrate, and an external circuit connects the pin to an elastic conductor, which in turn connects to the electrical connection area of ​​the transmitter. After changing the orientation of the pin at the signal output terminal, the sensor substrate no longer bends. When installing the analyte detection device, the auxiliary needle can smoothly insert the sensor into the user's skin, improving the sensor's detection reliability.

[0141] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An analyte detection device, characterized in that, include: A transmitter, wherein the transmitter is provided with an electrical connection area; A bottom shell, wherein a sensor base is provided on the bottom shell; A sensor includes a signal output terminal and a detection terminal. The signal output terminal is provided with a pin, and the detection terminal is provided with an electrode. The pin and the electrode are connected by a wire. The pin, the wire, and the electrode are arranged on an insulating substrate and located on the same side of the substrate. The pin faces the sensor base. An elastic conductor, the elastic conductor comprising spaced-apart conductive regions and insulating regions, wherein the conductive regions are electrically connected to the electrically connected regions; and An external circuit is provided, through which the pins and the elastic conductor are electrically connected; The sensor is inverted on the sensor base. At the signal output end, the side of the base without the pin faces the elastic conductor, and at the detection end, the side of the base without the electrode faces the auxiliary needle.

2. The analyte detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic conductor has a cuboid structure.

3. The analyte detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with the signal output terminal, the second surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with the external circuit, and the third surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with the electrical connection area.

4. The analyte detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with the signal output terminal and the external circuit, and the third surface of the elastic conductor is in contact with the electrical connection area.

5. The analyte detection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The external circuit is a three-dimensional circuit laid on the sensor base.

6. The analyte detection device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The external circuit is one of the conductive gel, conductive paste, conductive coating, conductive tape, or conductive adhesive applied to the sensor base.

7. The analyte detection device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that, The first and third sides of the elastic conductor are opposite each other.

8. The analyte detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive region and the insulating region respectively pass through the elastic conductor in the longitudinal direction.

9. The analyte detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive region and the insulating region surround the surface of the elastic conductor.

10. The analyte detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive regions are spaced-apart elastic conductors, and the insulating regions are the air regions that separate the conductive regions.

11. The analyte detection apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, The elastic conductor is one of conductive strips, conductive foam, or conductive foam.

12. The analyte detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The signal output end is bent relative to the detection end, and the signal output end is laid flat on the sensor base.

13. The analyte detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrical connection area is a metal conductive contact.

14. The analyte detection device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The number of the metal conductive contacts is the same as the number of the pins.

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