Implantable Analyte Sensor Charge Storage Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable analyte sensors without a charge storage device rely exclusively on external power, leading to gaps in analyte measurement data when not in proximity to the external device, such as during swimming or showering.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a charge storage device and measurement controller that allows the sensor to generate and store analyte measurement signals independently, enabling data transmission to an external device when power is available, and autonomously taking measurements using a low-power oscillator and scheduler.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sensor relies exclusively on external power from the electrodynamic field, then the sensor can operate when in proximity to the external device, but the sensor becomes dormant and cannot take measurements when not in proximity (e.g., during swimming or showering)
Solution Approach 1:
The charge storage device stores electrical energy in advance during periods when the external device is available, enabling the sensor to perform measurements autonomously when the external device is not present. This preliminary energy accumulation resolves the contradiction by allowing continuous operation without requiring complex power management circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor becomes self-powered through the integrated charge storage device, eliminating its complete dependence on the external device. The sensor can independently perform measurements and transmit data without continuous external power supply, thereby achieving reliable continuous monitoring while maintaining relatively simple sensor structure.
2Extent of automation
If the sensor includes a charge storage device to enable independent operation, then the sensor can take measurements autonomously, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charge storage device is integrated directly into the sensor unit, merging the power storage function with the measurement function in a single compact device. This integration enables autonomous measurement capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity by combining functions rather than adding separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The charge storage device serves multiple functions: it stores electrical energy for autonomous operation, enables periodic measurements without external device presence, and allows data transmission when externally connected. This multi-functionality achieves high automation while avoiding proportional increase in device complexity.
3Productivity
If the sensor operates continuously using charge storage device, then uninterrupted data collection is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor performs measurements periodically rather than continuously, using the charge storage device to power measurements at scheduled intervals. This periodic operation maintains data collection continuity while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation, as the sensor can remain in low-power states between measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The charge storage device ensures continuous availability of measurement capability by storing energy that can be drawn upon at any time, maintaining uninterrupted data collection productivity. The continuous useful action is enabled by the stored energy rather than continuous power input, thereby achieving high productivity with controlled energy consumption.
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
Enables continuous analyte monitoring by allowing the sensor to operate independently of the external device's proximity, ensuring uninterrupted data collection and transmission.
Implementation Method 1
The inductive element may be configured to produce a current when in an electrodynamic field generated by an external device
Data Source
AI summary
Sensors and methods for measurement of an analyte in a medium within a living animal are described. The sensor may include an inductive element that may receive power from an external device. The sensor may also include a charge storage device (CSD) and a memory. The sensor may perform analyte measurements initiated by the external device using power received from the external device and convey the analyte measurements to the external device using the inductive element. The sensor also may perform autonomous analyte measurements using the on board charge device's power and store the autonomous analyte measurements in the memory. The sensor may convey one or more stored analyte measurements to the external device using the inductive element using power received from the external device. The sensor may include a CSD-powered clock and a CSD-powered measurement scheduler that initiate the autonomous analyte measurements.