Biosensor Underfill Recognition via Electrode Universality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional biosensors face challenges in accurately and precisely detecting underfilled samples due to additional components increasing manufacturing costs and introducing inaccuracies, as well as delayed detection that may require replacing the sensor strip, leading to inefficiencies in analyzing biological fluids.
Innovation Solution
A method using a biosensor with an underfill recognition system that applies regular and extended polling sequences to assess the sample volume, determining whether it is sufficient for analysis through regular and extended output signals, allowing for real-time detection and potential addition of more sample before analysis begins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional components (indicator electrodes, third electrodes, sub-elements) are added to detect underfilled samples, then underfill detection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The working and counter electrodes serve dual purposes: they perform the primary analyte measurement function and simultaneously function as underfill detection electrodes. By applying a polling signal during the measurement process, the system detects sample volume sufficiency using the same electrode structure already present for analyte detection, eliminating the need for separate indicator electrodes or sub-elements.
2Reliability
If additional components (indicator electrodes, third electrodes, sub-elements) are added to detect underfilled samples, then underfill detection capability is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The working and counter electrodes serve dual purposes: they perform the primary analyte measurement function and simultaneously function as underfill detection electrodes. By applying a polling signal during the measurement process, the system detects sample volume sufficiency using the same electrode structure already present for analyte detection, eliminating the need for separate indicator electrodes or sub-elements.
3Reliability
If conventional underfill detection systems are used, then underfill detection is achieved, but detection time is delayed requiring sensor strip replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies a polling signal during the initial measurement period to detect sample volume sufficiency before the analyte measurement is completed. If underfill is detected, the system can immediately request additional sample or discard the invalid result, preventing wasted time on subsequent invalid measurements and eliminating the need for sensor strip replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The polling signal is applied continuously or periodically during the measurement process, allowing real-time monitoring of sample volume. This continuous detection approach enables immediate identification of underfill conditions without interrupting the measurement workflow, maintaining continuous useful action while ensuring accurate detection.
4Productivity
If sample volume is not assessed before analysis, then analysis can proceed immediately, but accuracy and precision deteriorate due to underfilled samples
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies a polling signal during the initial measurement period to detect sample volume sufficiency before the analyte measurement is completed. If underfill is detected, the system can immediately request additional sample or discard the invalid result, preventing wasted time on subsequent invalid measurements and eliminating the need for sensor strip replacement.
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 improves the accuracy and precision of sample analysis by ensuring sufficient sample volume before proceeding, reducing the need for new sensor strips and associated costs, and enhancing the reliability of biosensor readings.
Implementation Method 1
The analyte typically undergoes an oxidation/reduction or redox reaction when an excitation signal is applied to the sample. An enzyme or similar species may be added to the sample to enhance the specificity of the redox reaction.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5B
AI summary
A biosensor with an underfill recognition system assesses whether to analyze a sample for one or more analytes in response to the volume of the sample. The underfill recognition system applies polling and test excitation signals to the sample. The polling signals generate one or more polling output signals, which maybe used to detect when a sample is present and to determine whether the sample has sufficient volume for analysis. The test excitation signal generates one or more test output signals, which may be used to determine one or more analyte concentrations in the sample.