Differential Fluorescence Photodiode Sensing for Low-Cost Analyte Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing array-based sensors fail to provide efficient and cost-effective solutions for analyte detection, particularly in aqueous samples, due to manufacturing variabilities and complex transduction methods that increase costs and reduce sensitivity.
Innovation Solution
The use of differential time-resolved photonic sensors, coupled with semiconductor-based optical sensor devices, employing differential photo-sensing to improve analyte detection by using differential time-resolved fluorescence detection and low-cost manufacturing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex transduction methods are used in array-based sensors, then analyte detection capability is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and sensitivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes complex transduction methods from the sensor system, replacing them with simple photodetector-based detection. By taking out the unnecessary complexity and retaining only the essential photodetection function, the system achieves both low manufacturing cost and high sensitivity for analyte detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive photodetector components that can be manufactured at low cost using standard semiconductor fabrication processes. These simple photodetectors replace expensive complex transduction systems, providing a cost-effective solution that maintains high detection sensitivity while enabling large-scale manufacturing.
2Measurement precision
If complex transduction methods are used in array-based sensors, then analyte detection capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates complex transduction methods from the sensor architecture, retaining only the essential photodetector-based detection function. This simplification reduces device complexity while preserving the core capability for sensitive analyte detection through fluorescence signal measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical and optical transduction systems with a simpler photodetector-based electronic detection system. By substituting the complex transduction mechanism with direct photodetection, the device complexity is significantly reduced while maintaining or improving detection sensitivity.
3Productivity
If manufacturing variabilities are present in array-based sensors, then mass production is enabled, but analytical sensitivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive, standardized photodetector components that can be manufactured with typical semiconductor fabrication tolerances. These components are designed to be robust against manufacturing variabilities, allowing mass production while maintaining consistent analytical sensitivity across production batches through standardized design and fabrication processes.
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 enhances analytical sensitivity and dynamic range while desensitizing analyte detection from manufacturing variabilities, providing low-cost, high-performance sensors for analyte identification and quantification.
Implementation Method 1
the first optical signal comprises a fluorescence signal having a relaxation lifetime (τF)
Implementation Method 2
collect, by the first optical transducer, a first optical signal from the surface layer generated upon exposure of the surface layer to a light source, and convert the first optical signal to a first electrical signal
Implementation Method 3
collect, by the second optical transducer, a second optical signal, and convert the second optical signal to a second electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides methods, devices, and systems for fluorescence-based analyte detection. Devices may include a surface layer configured to be in contact with a solution. The surface layer may include an immobilized capture probe configured to bind an analyte. The device may include a photodiode transducer, current switch, or circuitry. The photodiode transducer may include a first photodiode disposed adjacent to a second photodiode. The current switch may divert current to a high gain detection path or a low gain detection path. Methods may include using the devices and systems described herein for analyte detection.