3D Printed Graphene Blood Glucose Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional blood glucose sensing devices face challenges such as pain during blood sample collection, high costs of test strips, and noncompliance due to the expense and degradation of biosensors, which are exacerbated by inefficient production, packaging, storage, and distribution processes.
Innovation Solution
A blood glucose sensing device fabricated using three-dimensional printing with graphene electrodes and glucose monitoring chemistry, including enzymes like glucose oxidase, which allows for direct electron transfer without redox mediators, enhancing electrical conduction and reducing costs through improved manufacturing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional test strips are used for blood glucose monitoring, then glucose measurement can be achieved, but the cost is high and compliance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the electrode from conventional materials to graphene, which has superior electrical conductivity. This parameter change enables the electrode to achieve the same measurement precision while reducing the amount of expensive reagents needed, thereby lowering manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining graphene with conductive polymers or other materials to create electrodes with optimized electrical properties. This composite approach allows for reduced reagent loading while maintaining measurement accuracy, addressing both precision and cost concerns
2Use of energy by moving object
If conventional electrodes are used, then basic electrical conduction is achieved, but electrical conduction efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional metal-based electrodes with graphene-based electrodes that utilize the unique electrical properties of graphene. This substitution improves electrical conduction efficiency by leveraging graphene's high electron mobility, while the additive manufacturing process keeps the structural complexity manageable
3Productivity
If traditional manufacturing processes are used for biosensors, then production can be achieved, but production efficiency is low and distribution is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional planar screen-printing manufacturing to three-dimensional printing. This dimensional change enables more complex electrode geometries to be fabricated directly, simplifying the manufacturing process by integrating multiple steps into a single additive manufacturing operation and improving production efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The additive manufacturing process allows for on-demand production of electrodes, enabling localized manufacturing that reduces the need for complex distribution networks. This self-service approach to production eliminates many steps in the traditional manufacturing and distribution chain
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The 3D-printed device effectively detects glucose concentrations between 0-400 mg/dL with high accuracy, offering a cost-effective solution for diabetes management and potentially reducing noncompliance issues by providing a more affordable and durable testing method.
Implementation Method 1
allows for direct electron transfer without redox mediators
Implementation Method 2
enhancing electrical conduction
Implementation Method 3
including enzymes like glucose oxidase
Implementation Method 4
glucose oxidase, which allows for direct electron transfer
Data Source
AI summary
A blood glucose sensing device includes a substrate, multiple three-dimensionally (3D) printed electrode leads comprising graphene arranged on or over the substrate, and glucose monitoring chemistry arranged in or on (e.g., adsorbed in) at least one of the 3D printed electrode leads. An end portion of a counter electrode lead may partially surround an end portion of a working electrode lead, and a reference lead may be further provided, Optionally, the 3D printed electrode leads may include a thermoplastic material, such as an aliphatic polyester. The glucose monitoring chemistry may include an enzyme.