Analyte Sensor Initialization via Voltage Pulse Protocols
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Solution Overview
Problem
Analyte sensors, particularly glucose sensors, experience significant delays in stabilization and initialization after being disconnected from electronic components, such as during MRI procedures, leading to inconvenient and delayed monitoring in clinical and non-hospital settings, especially for individuals without medical training.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine the disconnection time of analyte sensors and select appropriate initialization protocols, including series of voltage pulses or no voltage application, to expedite stabilization and calibration, with options for hydration detection and stabilization voltage application to ensure timely and accurate sensor reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sensor is disconnected from and then reconnected to sensor electronics, then the sensor can be used in MRI procedures or other applications requiring disconnection, but there is a significant delay before the sensor becomes stabilized enough to start sensing again
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions during the disconnection period by continuously conditioning the sensor electrode through applied voltage protocols even when disconnected from electronics. This preliminary conditioning ensures the sensor is ready for immediate use upon reconnection, eliminating the need for post-reconnection initialization delays.
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor conditioning module acts as an intermediary between the sensor and the main electronics, capable of independently conditioning the sensor electrode through voltage application. This intermediary maintains sensor readiness during disconnection periods without requiring connection to the full electronic system.
2Ease of operation
If a sensor is disconnected from sensor electronics for extended periods, then the sensor can be removed for patient procedures, but the sensor requires lengthy initialization protocols upon reconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor conditioning module provides self-service by autonomously monitoring disconnection time and automatically selecting appropriate conditioning protocols without user intervention. The system serves itself by maintaining optimal sensor state through automated voltage application based on disconnection duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts the conditioning protocol based on the actual disconnection time measured. Different voltage protocols are selected depending on whether the disconnection was brief or extended, optimizing the balance between conditioning effectiveness and time efficiency for each specific scenario.
3Device complexity
If standardized initialization protocols are used for all disconnection scenarios, then the system is simple to implement, but it cannot optimize for different disconnection durations
Solution Approach 1:
The initialization process is segmented into multiple discrete protocols based on disconnection time categories (e.g., brief disconnection under 30 minutes versus extended disconnection over 30 minutes). This segmentation allows the system to select the most appropriate protocol for each scenario, optimizing initialization efficiency without requiring a single complex standardized approach.
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
This approach reduces sensor initialization and stabilization times, enhancing the convenience and accuracy of glucose monitoring for both clinical and personal use, minimizing delays and improving user experience by facilitating quicker sensor reconnection and data receipt.
Implementation Method 1
The H2O2 reacts electrochemically as shown in equation 2, and the current can be measured by a potentiostat
Data Source
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AI summary
A method is provided for initializing an analyte sensor, such as a glucose sensor. Where a sensor has been disconnected and reconnected, a disconnection time is determined and a sensor initialization protocol is selected based upon the disconnection time. The sensor initialization protocol may include applying a first series of voltage pulses to the sensor. A method for detecting hydration of a sensor is also provided.