Chip-Based Multi-Channel Electrochemical Transducer for Analyte Differentiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrochemical analysis systems face challenges in simultaneously measuring multiple chemical target analytes in fluid samples with high accuracy and efficiency, particularly in distinguishing between different analytes in the same sample using existing potentiostat and galvanostat methods.
Innovation Solution
A chip-based multi-channel transducer system incorporating electrochemically responsive electrodes and electronic circuits for potentiometry and galvanometry, capable of processing signals on-chip and providing digital outputs, which employs techniques like electrical impedance spectroscopy to measure analyte concentrations and differentiate between multiple analytes in a single sample.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional potentiostat and galvanostat methods are used to measure multiple analytes, then measurement capability is provided, but measurement precision and ability to distinguish between different analytes deteriorates due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement system into multiple independent channels, each dedicated to measuring a specific analyte. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its target analyte, reducing cross-interference and improving measurement precision for multiple analytes simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different electrode configurations and measurement parameters to different channels based on the specific analyte being measured. Each channel is tailored with appropriate working electrodes, reference electrodes, and measurement potentials optimized for its target analyte, thereby improving precision while minimizing interference from other analytes.
2Productivity
If multiple analytes are measured simultaneously in a single sample, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-channel transducer system where a single device can measure multiple different analytes simultaneously. Each channel is equipped with appropriate electrodes and circuitry to handle its specific analyte, allowing the system to perform multiple measurement functions within one integrated device, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates multiple measurement channels within a single transducer chip, with each channel containing its own electrodes and measurement circuitry. This nested arrangement allows multiple analyte measurements to be performed concurrently within a compact structure, improving productivity while controlling device complexity through efficient spatial organization.
3Loss of time
If signal processing is performed off-chip, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases due to signal transmission and external processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the signal processing functions with the measurement electrodes by integrating readout circuits directly on the same chip. This merging eliminates the need for external signal transmission and processing, reducing time loss while the integrated nature of the circuits keeps the overall device complexity manageable through shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The transducer system performs signal processing autonomously on-chip without requiring external processing equipment. The integrated circuits on the chip itself process the signals generated by the electrodes, allowing the device to serve its own signal processing needs and eliminating time delays associated with external processing.
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 system enables concurrent, accurate measurement of multiple analytes with reduced susceptibility to interference, improved signal robustness, and efficient data processing, allowing for precise concentration determination and differentiation of analytes in a single fluid sample.
Implementation Method 1
an electrochemically responsive electrode that is configured to generate a signal in response to contact with a fluid sample
Implementation Method 2
at least one electronic circuit for processing signals generated by the at least one electrode
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to a monolithic arrangement comprising one or more electrochemically responsive electrodes that are configured to generate a signal relating to a characteristic of a fluid sample; and one or more electronic circuits for processing signals generated by the at least one electrode. Optionally, the monolithic arrangement comprises a plurality of electrodes configured to implement potentiostat and/or galvanostat measurement techniques. Optionally, at least two of the plurality of electrodes have different electrochemical material layers to obtain correspondingly different electrode functionalization.