Biosensor Test Strip Encoding via Conductive Contact Pads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biosensor test strips lack an efficient method to encode information that can be read by the test meter, leading to limitations in identifying the strip type, calibration, and user instructions, which can result in inaccurate measurements and user errors.
Innovation Solution
The test strip design incorporates additional conductive contact pads and potential conductive links that can be present or absent to encode information, allowing the test meter to determine the strip's characteristics, such as lot number or family ID, and activate specific features based on encoded data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional optical or electrochemical methods are used for analyte measurement, then measurement capability is achieved, but there is no integrated information coding system on the test strip itself
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the information coding function with the existing test strip structure by integrating additional contact pads into the same substrate. This merging allows the test strip to simultaneously perform its primary measurement function and store/transmit calibration information without requiring separate components or systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The test strip is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both the traditional electrochemical measurement capability and the new information storage function. The additional contact pads enable the strip to convey multiple types of information (calibration data, lot numbers, manufacturing dates) while maintaining its primary analyte detection role.
2Reliability
If calibration information is stored externally in a ROM key, then calibration data can be loaded, but user error occurs when matching lot numbers between strip and key
Solution Approach 1:
The test strip performs self-identification by containing its own calibration information directly on the strip through the additional contact pads. When inserted into the meter, the strip automatically communicates its lot number and calibration data, eliminating the need for users to manually match lot numbers between separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The additional contact pads serve as an intermediary communication interface between the test strip and the meter. This mediator enables direct digital communication of calibration information, replacing the manual verification process and preventing user errors in matching calibration data.
3Loss of information
If more test strip surface area is used for information coding, then more information can be stored, but the actual testing area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from using two-dimensional surface area for information coding to utilizing the electrical dimension through conductive contact pads. By encoding information through the presence, absence, or configuration of conductive pathways between contact pads, the system stores information without consuming additional surface area that would otherwise be available for testing.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a test strip for measuring a concentration of an analyte of interest in a biological fluid, wherein the test strip may be encoded with information that can be read by a test meter into which the test strip is inserted.