Apparatus for measuring hemoglobin and method for measuring hemoglobin concentration by using same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for measuring hemoglobin and a method for measuring hemoglobin concentration by using same.

Description

Hemoglobin measuring device and hemoglobin concentration measuring method using the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hemoglobin measuring device and a hemoglobin concentration measuring method using the same, and more particularly, to a method for measuring the hemoglobin concentration in blood collected by a cuvette.

[0002]

[0003] The material described in this section merely provides background information for the present disclosure and does not constitute prior art.

[0004] Hemoglobin is a protein found in blood and plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen. Therefore, a hemoglobin deficiency can lead to physical problems such as anemia. Therefore, measuring the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood is crucial for some patients. Many simple hemoglobin measuring devices are available on the market for easy hemoglobin measurement.

[0005] These simple hemoglobin measuring devices require the user to make an incision in a body part using a tool such as a lancet, drop the blood into a tray of the device, and use this blood to measure the hemoglobin concentration in the blood. However, this method can result in discomfort, as the user is forced to collect excessive amounts of blood.

[0006] Accordingly, a method in which the user collects his or her own blood using a tool called a cuvette and inserts it into a hemoglobin measuring device is widely used.

[0007] Conventional cuvettes are typically made of glass, a hydrophilic material. Glass cuvettes are difficult to manufacture, expensive, and can cause injury if dropped or broken. Furthermore, conventional cuvettes often trap air bubbles during blood collection, reducing the accuracy of blood analysis. Furthermore, they also have a high defect rate during manufacturing.

[0008] Furthermore, conventional hemoglobin measuring devices utilize optical elements, requiring a minimal light path, resulting in their large size. This limits their portability and mobility.

[0009]

[0010] In addition, in the case of these simple hemoglobin measuring devices on the market, deterioration may occur in the light-emitting elements, etc., provided in the measuring device due to numerous repeated uses. The deterioration of the light-emitting elements has the problem of reducing the output of the irradiated light, and the measured hemoglobin concentration may become inaccurate. Specifically, as the intensity of the light output from the light-emitting element decreases, the hemoglobin concentration may be measured higher than the actual concentration. In the case of anemic patients, the problem is that a hemoglobin concentration higher than the actual concentration may be measured, which may lead to the failure to take appropriate measures, which may result in fatal consequences for the patient.

[0011] Additionally, commercially available simple hemoglobin measuring devices utilize optical elements, requiring a minimal light path, resulting in their large size. This limits their portability and mobility.

[0012]

[0013] Accordingly, the present disclosure aims to provide a cuvette that is inexpensive to manufacture and has high productivity.

[0014] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a cuvette that can be safely used by users.

[0015] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a cuvette with high analytical accuracy.

[0016] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a cuvette having excellent sample collection capacity while being inexpensive to manufacture.

[0017] Additionally, the present disclosure aims to provide a cuvette having a low defect rate during manufacturing.

[0018] Additionally, the present disclosure aims to provide a user-friendly cuvette.

[0019] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a hemoglobin measuring device with good portability and mobility.

[0020] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a method capable of measuring the concentration of hemoglobin with high accuracy even when deterioration occurs in a light-emitting element.

[0021] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a hemoglobin measuring device that can be designed in a space-intensive manner and is thus easy to carry and move.

[0022] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0023]

[0024] According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, a cuvette (100) configured to capture a sample is provided, comprising: a handle (110) configured to be gripped; a suction part (120) formed integrally with the handle (110), having an open upper surface and configured to suck a sample through an opening (121) formed at one end; a hydrophilic film (140) coupled to the suction part (120) to form a receiving space with the suction part (120); and an adhesive layer (130) that couples the two between an attachment surface (125) of the suction part (120) and the hydrophilic film (140).

[0025]

[0026] In addition, preferably, the suction portion (120) according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is formed of one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polystyrene (PS), polyester (PES), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

[0027]

[0028] In addition, preferably, the suction unit (120) according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes an inclined surface (122) extending from the opening (121) toward the inside of the cuvette (100); an inner bottom surface (123) extending from an end point of the inclined surface (122) toward the inside of the cuvette (100); a circular protrusion (124) protruding upward from the inner bottom surface (123); and an air discharge unit (126) formed by penetrating the suction unit (120).

[0029]

[0030] In addition, preferably, the height of the opening (121) according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the distance (d1) between the starting point of the inclined surface (122) and the hydrophilic film (140) is 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm, the distance (d2) between the ending point of the inclined surface (122) and the hydrophilic film (140) is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, and the distance (d3) between the protrusion (124) and the hydrophilic film (140) is 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm.

[0031]

[0032] In addition, according to the second or third embodiment of the present disclosure, a cuvette (200, 300) configured to capture a sample, comprising: a handle (210, 310) configured to grip; and a suction part (220, 320) formed integrally with the handle (210, 310) and configured to suck a sample through an opening (221, 321) formed at one end; wherein the suction part (220, 320) has a shape in which the upper surface, the lower surface, and both sides are all closed, and at least a portion thereof is formed of a hydrophilic biofiber material.

[0033]

[0034] In addition, preferably, the suction unit (220) according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first inclined surface (222a) formed at one end of the inner bottom surface (223) of the suction unit (220) and extending from the opening (221) toward the inside of the cuvette (200); a second inclined surface (222b) formed at one end of the inner upper surface (225) of the suction unit (220) and extending from the opening (221) toward the inside of the cuvette (200); a circular protrusion (224) formed to protrude upward from the inner bottom surface (223); and an air discharge unit (226) formed to penetrate the upper surface of the suction unit (220).

[0035]

[0036] In addition, preferably, the suction unit (320) according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first inclined surface (322a) formed at one end of the inner bottom surface (323) of the suction unit (320) and extending from the opening (321) toward the inside of the cuvette (300); a second inclined surface (322b) formed at one end of the inner upper surface (325) of the suction unit (320) and extending from the opening (321) toward the inside of the cuvette (300); a first circular protrusion (324a) formed to protrude upward from the inner bottom surface (323); a second circular protrusion (324b) formed to protrude downward from the inner upper surface (325); and an air discharge unit (326) formed to penetrate the upper surface of the suction unit (320).

[0037]

[0038] In addition, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, in a hemoglobin measuring device using the above cuvette (100, 200, 300), a first light-emitting unit (12) configured to irradiate light toward the lower side; a second light-emitting unit (14) configured to irradiate light toward the right side; a first light-receiving unit (32) arranged parallel to the second light-emitting unit (14) on the right side of the second light-emitting unit (14); a second light-receiving unit (34) arranged parallel to the first light-emitting unit (12) on the lower side of the first light-emitting unit (12); And a beam splitter (20) disposed at a point where a path from the first light-emitting unit (12) to the second light-receiving unit (34) and a path from the second light-emitting unit (14) to the first light-receiving unit (32) intersect; and the cuvette (100, 200, 300) is disposed between the beam splitter (20) and the second light-receiving unit (34).

[0039]

[0040] Also, preferably, the wavelength of light irradiated by the first light emitting portion (12) is 525 nm to 530 nm, and the wavelength of light irradiated by the second light emitting portion (14) is 840 nm.

[0041]

[0042] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for measuring a hemoglobin concentration using a hemoglobin measuring device (1) including a first light-emitting unit (12), a second light-emitting unit (14), a first light-receiving unit (32) that receives a portion of the light irradiated by the first light-emitting unit (12) and a portion of the light irradiated by the second light-emitting unit (14), and a second light-receiving unit (34) that receives another portion of the light irradiated by the first light-emitting unit (12) and a portion of the light irradiated by the second light-emitting unit (14), is provided, the method comprising: (A) calculating a first correction standard and a second correction standard using the hemoglobin measuring device (1) used a number of times less than a preset number of times; and (B) measuring the concentration of hemoglobin in blood using the hemoglobin measuring device (1) used a number of times greater than a preset number of times.

[0043]

[0044] In addition, preferably, the step (A) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes: (a1) a step in which the first light-receiving unit (32) measures the absorbance (A1_REF) of the wavelength (first wavelength) of light irradiated by the first light-emitting unit (12) and the absorbance (A2_REF) of the wavelength (second wavelength) of light irradiated by the second light-emitting unit (14); (a21) a step in which the step (a1) is repeated multiple times; and (a22) a step in which the control unit (40) calculates a first correction reference which is an average of the absorbances (A1_REF) of the first wavelength and a second correction reference which is an average of the absorbances (A2_REF) of the second wavelength.

[0045]

[0046] In addition, preferably, the step (B) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: (b1) a step in which light is irradiated from each of the first light-emitting unit (12) and the second light-emitting unit (14); (b2) a step in which the first light-receiving unit (32) measures the absorbance (A1_REF) of the first wavelength and the absorbance (A2_REF) of the second wavelength, and the second light-receiving unit (34) measures the absorbance (A1) of the first wavelength and the absorbance (A2) of the second wavelength; (b3) a step in which the control unit (40) calculates the corrected absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the second light-receiving unit (34) using the first correction standard calculated in the step (a22) and the absorbance (A1_REF, A2_REF) of the first light-receiving unit (32) measured in the step (b2); And (b4) the control unit (40) calculates the hemoglobin concentration of the sample in the cuvette (100) using the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light receiving unit.

[0047]

[0048] In addition, preferably, in the step (b3) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit (34) is calculated using [Mathematical Formula 1] and [Mathematical Formula 2].

[0049]

[0050] In addition, preferably, in the step (b4) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the hemoglobin concentration of the sample in the cuvette (100) is calculated using the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit (34) and [Mathematical Formula 3].

[0051]

[0052] Also, preferably, the first wavelength according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is 525 nm to 530 nm, and the second wavelength is 840 nm.

[0053]

[0054] As described above, according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the cuvette has the effect of being mass-producible and having a low production cost, thereby achieving excellent productivity.

[0055] In addition, the cuvette according to all embodiments of the present disclosure has the effect of allowing users to use it safely without worrying about it breaking.

[0056] In addition, the cuvette according to all embodiments of the present disclosure can discharge air bubbles mixed in during sample suction or blood collection to the outside of the cuvette, thereby improving analysis accuracy.

[0057] In addition, the cuvette according to all embodiments of the present disclosure is configured to collect only a small amount of blood, so that the user does not need to collect an excessive amount of his / her blood, resulting in a user-friendly effect.

[0058] In addition, the cuvette according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure has a portion formed by plastic injection molding and another portion formed of a hydrophilic material, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while providing excellent collection capacity.

[0059] In addition, the cuvettes according to the second and third embodiments of the present disclosure are injection-molded using a plastic including a hydrophilic biomaterial, and thus have excellent capturing capabilities while being inexpensive to manufacture.

[0060] In addition, the hemoglobin measuring device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is designed to be space-intensive, as each light-emitting unit is arranged at a 90-degree angle and each light-receiving unit is also arranged at a 90-degree angle, thereby improving portability and mobility.

[0061] In addition, as described above, the hemoglobin measurement method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure has the effect of being able to measure the concentration of hemoglobin with high accuracy by taking into account the decrease in output due to deterioration of the light-emitting element.

[0062] In addition, the measuring device used in the hemoglobin measuring method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure has the effect of being designed in a space-intensive manner, as each light-emitting part is arranged at a 90-degree angle and each light-receiving part is also arranged at a 90-degree angle.

[0063]

[0064] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a hemoglobin measuring device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 2 illustrates the interior of a hemoglobin measuring device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 3 illustrates the configuration of a hemoglobin measuring device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of a cuvette used for hemoglobin measurement according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 4b is a bottom perspective view of a cuvette used for hemoglobin measurement according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a cuvette according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from the front.

[0070] Fig. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the suction portion taken along line I-I' of Fig. 4a of the present disclosure.

[0071] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the state of use of a cuvette according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 8a is a front perspective view of a cuvette according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 8b is a bottom perspective view of a cuvette according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 9 is a left side view of a cuvette according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 10a is a front perspective view of a cuvette according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 10b is a bottom perspective view of a cuvette according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] Fig. 11 is a left side view of a cuvette according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a hemoglobin measurement method using a hemoglobin measurement device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079]

[0080] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components are given identical reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present disclosure, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to obscure the gist of the present disclosure.

[0081] In describing components of embodiments according to the present disclosure, symbols such as first, second, i), ii), a), b) may be used. These symbols are only for distinguishing the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the symbols. When a part in the specification is said to "include" or "have" a component, this does not mean that other components are excluded, but rather that other components may be included, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0082] In the present disclosure, “lower / downward” means the direction from the first light-emitting unit (12) in FIG. 3 toward the cuvette (100), and “upper / upward” means the opposite direction.

[0083] Additionally, in the present disclosure, “right” means the direction from the second light-emitting unit (14) to the first light-receiving unit (32) in FIG. 3, and “left” means the opposite direction.

[0084]

[0085] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a hemoglobin measuring device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 shows the inside of a hemoglobin measuring device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 shows the configuration of a hemoglobin measuring device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086]

[0087] A hemoglobin measuring device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to measure the concentration of hemoglobin in a sample (i.e., blood) using spectrophotometry. To this end, the hemoglobin measuring device (1) includes all or part of a light emitting unit (10), a beam splitter (20), a light receiving unit (30), a control unit (40), and a cuvette (100).

[0088] The light-emitting unit (10) is configured to receive power and irradiate light toward a sample. In the present disclosure, the light-emitting unit (10) may include a first light-emitting unit (12) and a second light-emitting unit (14).

[0089] The first light-emitting unit (12) includes a light-emitting element and is configured to receive an electric power source and radiate light of a wavelength range targeted by the user with a relatively constant output. In the present disclosure, the wavelength of light radiated by the first light-emitting unit (12) (hereinafter, "first wavelength") may preferably be 525 nm to 530 nm.

[0090] The first light emitting unit (12) can irradiate light toward the lower side. However, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and light may also be irradiated toward the upper side depending on the position where the cuvette (100) is placed.

[0091] The second light-emitting unit (14) includes a light-emitting element and is configured to receive power and radiate light of a wavelength range targeted by the user with a relatively constant output. In the present disclosure, the wavelength of light radiated by the second light-emitting unit (14) (hereinafter, "second wavelength") may preferably be 840 nm.

[0092] The second light emitting unit (14) can irradiate light toward the right. However, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and light may also be irradiated toward the left depending on the position where the first light receiving unit (32) is positioned.

[0093] Meanwhile, the light emitting element used in the light emitting unit (10) may be an LED or photodiode that generates a specific wavelength. Alternatively, a white LED and an optical filter assembly that transmits only a specific wavelength may be used.

[0094] The beam splitter (20) is configured to transmit at least a portion of the incident light in a first direction and the other portion in a second direction. In this case, the second direction may preferably mean a direction rotated 90 degrees with respect to the first direction. Preferably, the beam splitter (20) is configured to transmit 50% of the incident light and refract the remaining 50% in a 90 degree direction.

[0095] According to the present disclosure, when light of the first wavelength passes through the beam splitter (20), it can be divided into two light branches, one in the downward direction from which it originally proceeded, and the other in the right direction refracted at 90 degrees to the original direction from which it originally proceeded.

[0096] Likewise, when light of the second wavelength passes through the beam splitter (20), it can be split into two light beams, one in the right direction from which it originally traveled and the other in the downward direction refracted at 90 degrees to the original direction from which it originally traveled.

[0097] For this purpose, the beam splitter (20) must be placed at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the direction in which the light of the first wavelength is irradiated.

[0098] The light receiving unit (30) is configured to receive light irradiated from the light emitting unit (10). To this end, the light receiving unit (30) may include a first light receiving unit (32) and a second light receiving unit (34).

[0099] The first light receiving unit (32) is arranged parallel to the second light emitting unit (14) on the right side of the second light emitting unit (14) and receives light that has passed through the beam splitter (20). That is, the first light receiving unit (32) can receive light that travels straight among the light irradiated by the second light emitting unit (14) and light that has been refracted among the light irradiated by the first light emitting unit (12).

[0100] The first light receiving unit (32) can convert the wavelength of the received light into an electrical signal and transmit it to the control unit (40).

[0101] The second light-receiving unit (34) is arranged parallel to the first light-emitting unit (12) and below the first light-emitting unit (12), and receives light that has passed through the beam splitter (20) and the cuvette (100) in sequence. That is, the second light-receiving unit (34) can receive light that travels straight among the light irradiated by the first light-emitting unit (12) and light that has been refracted among the light irradiated by the second light-emitting unit (14).

[0102] The second light receiving unit (34) can convert the wavelength of the received light into an electrical signal and transmit it to the control unit (40).

[0103] According to the present disclosure, the light received by the first light receiving unit (32) is light before passing through the cuvette (100) and is used to correct the intensity of the light received by the second light receiving unit (34). In addition, the light received by the second light receiving unit (34) is light that has passed through the cuvette (100) and is used to analyze a sample within the cuvette (100).

[0104] According to the present disclosure, the first light-emitting unit (12) and the second light-emitting unit (14) are each arranged at 90 degrees, and the first light-receiving unit (32) and the second light-receiving unit (34) are also each arranged at 90 degrees, so that the hemoglobin measuring device (1) can be designed in a space-intensive manner.

[0105] The control unit (40) can transmit a signal to the light emitting unit (10) that controls the amount of power applied to the light emitting unit (10). In addition, the control unit (40) can receive an electrical signal transmitted from the light receiving unit (30) and control a signal applied to the light emitting unit (10) based on the electrical signal. In this regard, a specific method is described in FIG. 12.

[0106]

[0107] Description of the cuvette (100) according to the first embodiment

[0108] The cuvette (100) is placed between the beam splitter (20) and the second light receiving unit (34) and is configured to store a sample (i.e., blood) therein.

[0109] Since light must be transmitted through the cuvette (100), at least a portion of the cuvette (100) is made of a transparent material.

[0110] The cuvette (100) may be made of glass, but is preferably made of a rigid, optically transparent material that can be molded, such as polystyrene (PS), polyester (PES), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). This allows for mass production, and has the advantage of low production costs and excellent productivity.

[0111] Additionally, there is no risk of it breaking, so it has the advantage of being safe for users to use.

[0112] FIG. 4a is a front perspective view of a cuvette used for hemoglobin measurement according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4b is a bottom perspective view of a cuvette used for hemoglobin measurement according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, a cuvette (100) according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes a handle (110) and a suction portion (120).

[0114] The handle (110) is configured to be gripped by the user.

[0115] The suction part (120) is formed integrally with the handle (110) and is configured to come into contact with the sample and suck the sample.

[0116] When the opening (121) of the suction part (120) is brought into contact with a sample, the sample can be sucked into the interior of the suction part (120) by a capillary phenomenon. Since the suction part (120) is formed with an internal height of less than 1 mm, it is advantageous for sucking the sample by a capillary phenomenon.

[0117] An air discharge portion (126) formed by penetrating the suction portion (120) may be disposed on the bottom surface of the suction portion (120). Air bubbles mixed in during sample suction or air bubbles mixed in during blood collection may be discharged through the air discharge portion (126). Bubbles included in the sample may change the light transmittance of the sample. This is considered a major cause of errors in analysis results. Meanwhile, the cuvette (100) according to the present disclosure has the advantage of improving analysis accuracy by discharging such bubbles to the outside of the cuvette (100).

[0118] The suction part (120) has an open upper surface, and a hydrophilic film (140) is attached to the open surface, so that a receiving space can be formed between the suction part (120) and the hydrophilic film (140).

[0119]

[0120] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a cuvette according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the front. Fig. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a suction portion taken along line I-I' of Fig. 4a of the present disclosure.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the configuration of the suction unit (120) and the configuration of the cuvette (100) will be described in detail.

[0122] The suction portion (120) may further include an inclined surface (122), an inner bottom surface (123), a protrusion (124), and an attachment surface (125).

[0123] The inclined surface (122) is formed to extend from the opening (121) toward the inside of the cuvette (100). At this time, it is preferable that the inclined surface (122) be formed so that its height increases in the direction toward the inside of the cuvette (100).

[0124] The distance between the starting point of the slope (122) and the hydrophilic film (140), i.e., the height (d1) of the opening (121), is preferably 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0125] The distance (d2) between the end point of the inclined surface (122) and the hydrophilic film (140) is preferably 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. That is, as the flow path of the sample is narrowed by the inclined surface (122), the sample can stably diffuse into the inside of the cuvette (100) along the inclined surface (122).

[0126] The inner bottom surface (123) is formed to extend from the end point of the inclined surface (122) toward the inside of the cuvette (100).

[0127] The protrusion (124) is formed to protrude upward from the inner bottom surface (123) and is preferably formed in a circular shape. The distance (d3) between one surface of the protrusion (124) and the hydrophilic film (140) is preferably 0.2 mm or less. Alternatively, the distance (d3) may be 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm. As a result, the sample can be spread thinly enough to allow light to pass through.

[0128] At this time, the light passing through the beam splitter (20) and heading downward passes through the protrusion (124) of the cuvette (100).

[0129]

[0130] The cuvette (100) may further include an adhesive layer (130) and a hydrophilic film (140) in addition to the handle (110) and the suction portion (120).

[0131] As previously described, the cuvette (100) is composed of a hydrophobic material such as polystyrene (PS), polyester (PES), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). This may make it difficult to capture blood, which is composed of water. In this case, by configuring one side of the cuvette (100) with a hydrophilic film (140), which is a hydrophilic material, the capillary phenomenon and thus the sample capture capacity can be improved.

[0132] By composing only one side of the cuvette (100) with a hydrophilic material, the overall cuvette (100) manufacturing cost is reduced, while the sample collection capacity is excellent.

[0133] The adhesive layer (130) is configured to bond the suction portion (120) and the hydrophilic film (140) together.

[0134] The adhesive layer (130) is bonded to the attachment surface (125) of the suction portion (120), and the hydrophilic film (140) is bonded to the adhesive layer (130), so that an accommodation space can be formed between the suction portion (120) and the hydrophilic film (140).

[0135]

[0136] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the state of use of a cuvette according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] Referring to Figure 7, it can be seen that at least a portion of the user's blood has been sucked into the suction port (120) of the cuvette (100). At this time, the cuvette (100) can collect a relatively small amount of blood due to its small internal volume. This provides the advantage of user friendliness, as the user does not need to collect excessive amounts of blood.

[0138]

[0139] Description of the cuvette (200) according to the second embodiment

[0140] Fig. 8a is a front perspective view of a cuvette according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 7b is a bottom perspective view of a cuvette according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, a cuvette (200) according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure includes a handle (210) and a suction portion (220).

[0142] The handle (210) is configured to be gripped by the user.

[0143] The suction part (220) is formed integrally with the handle (210) and is configured to come into contact with the sample and suck the sample.

[0144] When the opening (221) of the suction part (220) is brought into contact with a sample, the sample can be sucked into the interior of the suction part (220) by a capillary phenomenon. Since the internal height of the suction part (220) is formed to be less than 1 mm, it is advantageous for sucking the sample by a capillary phenomenon.

[0145] On the upper surface of the suction portion (220), an air discharge portion (226) is arranged that is formed by penetrating one surface of the suction portion (220). The shape and configuration of the air discharge portion (226) according to the second embodiment are the same as those of the air discharge portion (126) according to the first embodiment, and thus, the related description will be replaced with the description of the discharge portion (126).

[0146] The suction unit (220) according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure is in a form in which the upper surface, lower surface, and side surfaces are all closed and only the opening (221) side is open, and an accommodation space can be formed inside the suction unit (220) itself.

[0147] At least a portion of the suction portion (220) may be formed of a hydrophilic biofiber material. Here, the hydrophilic biofiber material is, for example, a material formed by acetylating the hydroxyl group (-OH) of cellulose, a polysaccharide fiber. The hydrophilic biofiber material described above uses relatively inexpensive materials, so it has the effect of reducing the manufacturing cost while also having excellent capture capacity.

[0148]

[0149] FIG. 9 is a left side view of a cuvette according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] Referring to Fig. 9, the configuration of the suction unit (220) will be described in detail.

[0151] The suction portion (220) may further include a first inclined surface (222a), a second inclined surface (222b), an inner bottom surface (223), a protrusion (224), and an inner upper surface (225).

[0152] The first inclined surface (222a) and the second inclined surface (222b) are formed to extend from the opening (221) toward the inside of the cuvette (200). At this time, it is preferable that the first inclined surface (222a) and the second inclined surface (222b) are formed so that their heights increase in the direction toward the inside of the cuvette (200).

[0153] The distance (d1) between the first inclined surface (222a) and the second inclined surface (222b) is preferably 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0154] The inner bottom surface (223) is formed to extend from the end point of the first inclined surface (222a) toward the inside of the cuvette (200).

[0155] The protrusion (224) is formed to protrude upward from the inner bottom surface (223), and is preferably formed in a circular shape. At this time, light passing through the beam splitter (20) and directed downward passes through the protrusion (224) of the cuvette (200).

[0156] The inner upper surface (225) is formed to extend from the end point of the second inclined surface (222b) toward the inside of the cuvette (200).

[0157] The distance (d2) between the inner bottom surface (223) and the inner upper surface (225) is preferably 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. In addition, the distance (d3) between the protrusion (224) and the inner upper surface (225) is preferably 0.2 mm or less. Alternatively, the distance (d3) may be 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm. This allows the sample to be spread thinly enough to allow light to pass through.

[0158] That is, as the size decreases as it goes from d1 to d2 and d3, the path through which the sample flows becomes narrower, allowing the sample to stably spread into the inside of the cuvette (200).

[0159]

[0160] Description of the cuvette (300) according to the third embodiment

[0161] Fig. 10a is a front perspective view of a cuvette according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10b is a bottom perspective view of a cuvette according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0162] Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, a cuvette (300) according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure includes a handle (310) and a suction portion (320).

[0163] The handle (310) is configured to be gripped by the user.

[0164] The suction part (320) is formed integrally with the handle (310) and is configured to come into contact with the sample and suck the sample.

[0165] When the opening (321) of the suction part (320) is brought into contact with a sample, the sample can be sucked into the interior of the suction part (320) by a capillary phenomenon. Since the internal height of the suction part (320) is formed to be less than 1 mm, it is advantageous for sucking the sample according to the capillary shape.

[0166] An air discharge portion (326) is disposed on the upper surface of the suction portion (320) and is formed by penetrating one surface of the suction portion. The shape and configuration of the air discharge portion (326) according to the third embodiment are identical to those of the air discharge portion (126) according to the first embodiment, and thus the related description will be replaced with the description of the discharge portion (126).

[0167] According to the third embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper surface, lower surface, and side surface of the suction unit (320) are all closed and are open only toward the opening (321), and an accommodation space can be formed inside the suction unit (320) itself.

[0168] At least a portion of the suction unit (320) may be formed of a hydrophilic biofiber material. The description related to the material of the suction unit (320) according to the third embodiment is replaced with the description of the suction unit (220) according to the second embodiment.

[0169]

[0170] Fig. 11 is a left side view of a cuvette according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] Referring to Fig. 11, the configuration of the suction unit (320) is described in detail.

[0172] The suction portion (320) may further include a first inclined surface (332a), a second inclined surface (332b), an inner bottom surface (323), a first protrusion (324a), a second protrusion (324b), and an inner upper surface (325).

[0173] The shape and effect of the first inclined surface (332a) and the second inclined surface (332b) according to the third embodiment are the same as those of the first inclined surface (222a) and the second inclined surface (222b) according to the second embodiment, so the description of the first inclined surface (222a) and the second inclined surface (222b) is replaced with the description of the first inclined surface (222a) and the second inclined surface (222b).

[0174] The inner bottom surface (323) is formed to extend from the end point of the first inclined surface (332a) toward the inside of the cuvette (300).

[0175] The first protrusion (324a) is formed to protrude upward from the inner bottom surface (323) and is preferably formed in a circular shape.

[0176] The inner upper surface (325) is formed to extend from the end point of the second inclined surface (332b) toward the inside of the cuvette (300).

[0177] The second protrusion (324b) is formed to protrude downward from the inner upper surface (325), and is preferably formed in a circular shape. At this time, the second protrusion (324b) and the first protrusion (324a) are preferably formed in the same shape and are arranged to face each other.

[0178] Light passing through the beam splitter (20) and directed downward passes through both the first protrusion (324a) and the second protrusion (324b) of the cuvette (300).

[0179] The distance (d2) between the inner bottom surface (323) and the inner upper surface (325) is preferably 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. In addition, the distance (d3) between the first protrusion (324a) and the second protrusion (324b) is preferably 0.2 mm or less. Alternatively, the distance (d3) may be 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm. This allows the sample to be spread thinly enough to allow light to pass through.

[0180] That is, as the size decreases as it goes from d1 to d2 and d3, the path through which the sample flows becomes narrower, and the sample can stably spread into the inside of the cuvette (300).

[0181]

[0182] Hemoglobin measurement method using a hemoglobin measurement device (1)

[0183] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a hemoglobin measurement method using a hemoglobin measurement device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 12, a hemoglobin measurement method using a hemoglobin measurement device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0185] The first light receiving unit (32) measures the absorbance of the first wavelength (A1_REF) and the absorbance of the second wavelength (A2_REF) (S300).

[0186] Step S300 is repeated multiple times, and the average of the absorbance of the first wavelength (A1_REF) and the average of the absorbance of the second wavelength (A2_REF) are calculated (S310). At this time, the average of the absorbance of the first wavelength (A1_REF) is referred to as the first correction standard, and the average of the absorbance of the second wavelength (A2_REF) is referred to as the second correction standard.

[0187] [Table 1] summarizes the absorbance measured according to the above-mentioned steps S300 to S310 and the hemoglobin concentration calculated using the measured absorbance. Referring to [Table 1], the first correction standard is 2469.9, and the second correction standard is 4000.3.

[0188] A1A1_REFA2A2_REF Hemoglobin concentration (g / dL) 1122124711301400114.72122224711301400114.73122224711301400014.74122124691300399914.75122024701301400014.7 6122124691301400114.77122224701302400014.78122124691301400014.79122124701301400014.710122124691302400114.7Average1221.22469.91301.14000.314.7

[0189] A1: Absorbance of the first wavelength measured by the second light-receiving unit A1_REF: Absorbance of the first wavelength measured by the first light-receiving unit

[0190] A2: Absorbance of the second wavelength measured by the second photodetector

[0191] A2_REF: Absorbance of the second wavelength measured by the first photodetector

[0192]

[0193] Light is irradiated from each of the first light emitting unit (12) and the second light emitting unit (14) (S320).

[0194] The first light receiving unit (32) measures the absorbance of the first wavelength (A1_REF) and the absorbance of the second wavelength (A2_REF), and the second light receiving unit (34) measures the absorbance of the first wavelength (A1) and the absorbance of the second wavelength (A2) (S330). Each measured absorbance is converted into an electrical signal and transmitted to the control unit (40).

[0195] The control unit (40) calculates the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit (34) using the first correction standard and the absorbance (A1_REF, A2_REF) of the light-receiving unit (S340).

[0196] At this time, the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit (34) is calculated using [Mathematical Formula 1] and [Mathematical Formula 2].

[0197]

[0198]

[0199]

[0200] Using the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the compensated second light-receiving unit (34), the hemoglobin concentration of the sample in the cuvette (100) is calculated (S350). At this time, the hemoglobin concentration is calculated using [Mathematical Formula 3].

[0201]

[0202] Here, a is a constant that determines the discrimination power according to hemoglobin concentration, and can be determined through an empirical formula. Furthermore, b is a correction constant, and can be determined through an empirical formula. Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, hemoglobin concentration was calculated assuming that a is 10.659 and b is 15.388.

[0203]

[0204] When initially used, a light-emitting element can radiate light of a target wavelength corresponding to the applied power at a relatively constant intensity. However, with repeated use, the light-emitting element deteriorates and outputs lower output for the same power compared to when initially used. According to the present disclosure, there is an advantage in that the output reduction due to deterioration of the light-emitting element can be compensated for by compensating the amount of light (i.e., absorbance) received by the second light-receiving unit (34) using the light received by the first light-receiving unit (32). The accuracy of a hemoglobin measurement method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be further described with reference to [Table 2] and [Table 3].

[0205] [Table 2] summarizes the results of hemoglobin concentration measurements using a hemoglobin measuring device that has performed more than a preset number of measurement cycles, without any correction using the first light receiving unit (32). Meanwhile, the experimental results according to [Table 2] were performed under the same conditions (i.e., the same power supply) as the experimental results according to [Table 1].

[0206] A1A1_REFA2A2_REF Hemoglobin concentration (g / dL) 1121724691240386015.22121624691239386115.23121624691239386015.24121824701241386015.25121624681240386115.2 6121624681237386215.27121724691241386215.28121724691240386115.29121824681241386015.210121724691240386215.2Average1216.82468.81239.83860.915.2

[0207] A1: Absorbance of the first wavelength measured by the second light-receiving unit A1_REF: Absorbance of the first wavelength measured by the first light-receiving unit

[0208] A2: Absorbance of the second wavelength measured by the second photodetector

[0209] A2_REF: Absorbance of the second wavelength measured by the first photodetector

[0210]

[0211] Referring to [Table 2], the hemoglobin concentration was 15.2 g / dL, which was significantly different from the actual hemoglobin concentration of 14.7 g / dL.

[0212]

[0213] [Table 3] summarizes the results of hemoglobin concentration measurements using a hemoglobin measuring device that has performed a preset number of measurement cycles, and the cases in which corrections were made using the first light receiving unit (32). Meanwhile, the experimental results according to [Table 3] were performed under the same conditions (i.e., the same power supply) as the experimental results according to [Table 1].

[0214] Order A1A1_Correction A1_ref A2A2_Correction A2_ref Hemoglobin concentration (g / dL) 112171217.4246912401285.1386014.8212161216.4246912391283.7386114.8312161216.4246912391284.0386014.8412181218.0247012411286.1386014.8512161216.9246812401284.7386114.86 12161216.9246812371281.3386214.8712171217.4246912411285.4386214.8812171217.4246912401284.7386114.8912181218.9246812411286.1386014.81012171217.4246912401284.4386214.8Average1216.81217.32468.81239.81284.63860.914.8

[0215] A1: Absorbance of the first wavelength measured by the second photodetector A1_Correction: Corrected value of the absorbance of the first wavelength measured by the second photodetector

[0216] A1_REF: Absorbance of the first wavelength measured by the first photodetector

[0217] A2: Absorbance of the second wavelength measured by the second photodetector

[0218] A2_Correction: Corrected value for the absorbance of the second wavelength measured by the second light receiving unit

[0219] A2_REF: Absorbance of the second wavelength measured by the first photodetector

[0220]

[0221] Referring to [Table 3], the hemoglobin concentration is 14.8 g / dL, which shows an error rate of 0.68% compared to the actual hemoglobin concentration of 14.7 g / dL, indicating a highly reliable result.

[0222]

[0223] Fig. 2 illustrates the interior of a hemoglobin measuring device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is an example of an actual hemoglobin measuring device (1), and it should be noted that configurations other than those described above can be appropriately designed and modified by the user.

[0224] As shown in Fig. 2, the first light-emitting unit (12) and the second light-emitting unit (14) are each arranged at 90 degrees, and the first light-receiving unit (32) and the second light-receiving unit (34) are also each arranged at 90 degrees, so that the hemoglobin measuring device (1) can be designed in a space-intensive manner.

[0225]

[0226] FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of a cuvette used for hemoglobin measurement according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B is a bottom perspective view of a cuvette used for hemoglobin measurement according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0227] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the cuvette (100) includes a handle (110) and a suction portion (120).

[0228] The handle (110) is configured to be gripped by the user.

[0229] The suction unit (120) is configured to suck up a sample when it comes into contact with the sample. Specifically, when the opening (121) of the suction unit (120) is brought close to the sample, the sample is sucked into the interior of the suction unit (120) by a capillary phenomenon. Since the cuvette (100) is formed to have a thickness of less than 1 mm, it is advantageous for sucking up the sample. Specifically, since the opening (121) is formed to have a thickness of about 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm and the surface contact angle is 20 degrees or less, it has the advantage of having a relatively large suction power despite its simple structure.

[0230]

[0231] The above description is merely an example of the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the present embodiment. Therefore, the present embodiments are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment, but rather to explain it, and the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present embodiment should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of rights of the present embodiment.

[0232]

[0233] (Explanation of symbols)

[0234] 1: Hemoglobin measuring device

[0235] 10: Light-emitting part

[0236] 12: First light emitting section

[0237] 14: Second light emitting section

[0238] 20: Beam splitter

[0239] 30: Photoreceptor

[0240] 32: First light receiving unit

[0241] 34: Second light receiving unit

[0242] 40: Control unit

[0243] 100, 200, 300: cuvettes

[0244] 110, 210, 310: Handle

[0245] 120, 220, 320: Intake

[0246] 130: Hydrophilic film

[0247] 140: Adhesive layer

Claims

1. A cuvette (100) configured to collect a sample, A handle (110) configured to grip; A suction unit (120) formed integrally with the handle (110), having an open upper surface and configured to suck a sample through an opening (121) formed at one end; A hydrophilic film (140) that forms a receiving space with the suction unit (120) by being coupled to the suction unit (120); and An adhesive layer (130) that combines the attachment surface (125) of the suction portion (120) and the hydrophilic film (140); Cuvette.

2. In paragraph 1, The above suction part (120) is formed of one or more materials among polystyrene (PS), polyester (PES), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Cuvette.

3. In paragraph 1, The above suction part (120) is An inclined surface (122) extending from the opening (121) toward the inside of the cuvette (100); An inner bottom surface (123) formed extending from the end point of the above-mentioned inclined surface (122) toward the inside of the cuvette (100); A circular protrusion (124) formed to protrude upward from the inner bottom surface (123); and Including an air discharge portion (126) formed by penetrating the above suction portion (120); Cuvette.

4. In paragraph 3, The height of the above opening (121) and the distance (d1) between the starting point of the inclined surface (122) and the hydrophilic film (140) are 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm, The distance (d2) between the end point of the above-mentioned inclined surface (122) and the above-mentioned hydrophilic film (140) is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, The distance (d3) between the protrusion (124) and the hydrophilic film (140) is 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm. Cuvette.

5. A cuvette (200, 300) configured to collect a sample, a handle (210, 310) configured to grip; and It includes a suction part (220, 320) formed integrally with the handle (210, 310) and configured to suck a sample through an opening (221, 321) formed at one end; The above suction part (220, 320) has a shape in which the upper surface, lower surface and both sides are all closed, and at least a part of it is formed of a hydrophilic bio fiber material. Cuvette.

6. In paragraph 5, The above suction part (220) is, A first inclined surface (222a) formed at one end of the inner bottom surface (223) of the suction portion (220) and extending from the opening (221) toward the inside of the cuvette (200); A second inclined surface (222b) formed at one end of the inner upper surface (225) of the suction portion (220) and extending from the opening (221) toward the inside of the cuvette (200); A circular protrusion (224) formed to protrude upward from the inner bottom surface (223); and Including an air discharge portion (226) formed by penetrating the upper surface of the above suction portion (220); Cuvette.

7. In paragraph 5, The above suction part (320) is A first inclined surface (322a) formed at one end of the inner bottom surface (323) of the suction portion (320) and extending from the opening (321) toward the inside of the cuvette (300); A second inclined surface (322b) formed at one end of the inner upper surface (325) of the suction portion (320) and extending from the opening (321) toward the inside of the cuvette (300); A first circular protrusion (324a) protruding upward from the inner bottom surface (323); A second circular protrusion (324b) protruding downward from the inner upper surface (325); and Including an air discharge portion (326) formed by penetrating the upper surface of the above suction portion (320); Cuvette.

8. In a hemoglobin measuring device using a cuvette (100, 200, 300) according to any one of clauses 1 to 7, A first light emitting unit (12) configured to irradiate light toward the lower side; A second light emitting unit (14) configured to irradiate light toward the right; A first light-receiving unit (32) arranged parallel to the second light-emitting unit (14) on the right side of the second light-emitting unit (14); A second light-receiving portion (34) arranged parallel to the first light-emitting portion (12) on the lower side of the first light-emitting portion (12); and A beam splitter (20) is disposed at a point where a path from the first light-emitting unit (12) to the second light-receiving unit (34) and a path from the second light-emitting unit (14) to the first light-receiving unit (32) intersect; The above cuvette (100, 200, 300) is placed between the beam splitter (20) and the second light receiving unit (34). Hemoglobin measuring device.

9. In paragraph 8, The wavelength of the light irradiated by the first light emitting unit (12) is 525 nm to 530 nm, The wavelength of the light irradiated by the second light emitting unit (14) is 840 nm. Hemoglobin measuring device.

10. In a method for measuring hemoglobin concentration using a hemoglobin measuring device (1) including a first light emitting unit (12), a second light emitting unit (14), a first light receiving unit (32) that receives a portion of the light irradiated by the first light emitting unit (12) and a portion of the light irradiated by the second light emitting unit (14), and a second light receiving unit (34) that receives another portion of the light irradiated by the first light emitting unit (12) and a portion of the light irradiated by the second light emitting unit (14), (A) a step of calculating the first correction standard and the second correction standard using the hemoglobin measuring device (1) used a number of times less than the preset number of times; and (B) a step of measuring the concentration of hemoglobin in blood using the hemoglobin measuring device (1) used more than a preset number of times; including; method.

11. In paragraph 10, Step (A) above, (a1) A step in which the first light-receiving unit (32) measures the absorbance (A1_REF) of the wavelength (first wavelength) of light irradiated by the first light-emitting unit (12) and the absorbance (A2_REF) of the wavelength (second wavelength) of light irradiated by the second light-emitting unit (14); (a21) a step in which the above step (a1) is repeated multiple times; and (a22) A step in which the control unit (40) calculates a first correction standard which is an average of the absorbance (A1_REF) of the first wavelength and a second correction standard which is an average of the absorbance (A2_REF) of the second wavelength; method.

12. In paragraph 11, Step (B) above, (b1) A step in which light is irradiated from each of the first light-emitting portion (12) and the second light-emitting portion (14); (b2) A step in which the first light-receiving unit (32) measures the absorbance (A1_REF) of the first wavelength and the absorbance (A2_REF) of the second wavelength, and the second light-receiving unit (34) measures the absorbance (A1) of the first wavelength and the absorbance (A2) of the second wavelength; (b3) a step in which the control unit (40) calculates the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit (34) using the first correction standard calculated in the step (a22) and the absorbance (A1_REF, A2_REF) of the first light-receiving unit (32) measured in the step (b2); and (b4) a step in which the control unit (40) calculates the hemoglobin concentration of the sample in the cuvette (100) using the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit; method.

13. In paragraph 12, In the above step (b3), the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit (34) is calculated using [Mathematical Formula 1] and [Mathematical Formula 2]. [Mathematical Formula 1] [Equation 2] method.

14. In paragraph 13, In the above step (b4), the hemoglobin concentration of the sample in the cuvette (100) is calculated using the absorbance (A1_correction, A2_correction) of the corrected second light-receiving unit (34) and [Mathematical Formula 3]. [Equation 3] -At this time, a is a constant that determines the discrimination according to hemoglobin concentration, and b is a correction constant. method.

15. In paragraph 11, The first wavelength is 525 nm to 530 nm, The second wavelength is 840 nm, method.

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