Disposable Uroflow Sensor Container Powered by a Biofuel Cell
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing uroflowmetry devices are bulky, difficult to clean, and not suitable for disposable use, making uroflowmetric measurements complicated and underutilized.
Innovation Solution
A disposable analytical sensor device with a biofuel cell-powered energy source and integrated sensors for measuring fluid properties, including flow rate, is provided in a disposable container, using biodegradable materials and thin film electronics for easy, accurate, and user-friendly measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing uroflowmetry devices are used, then accurate urine flow rate measurements can be obtained, but the devices are bulky and difficult to clean
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the disposable principle by providing a single-use uroflowmetry device that is discarded after one use. This eliminates cleaning requirements entirely while maintaining measurement accuracy through integrated pressure sensors and impeller mechanisms designed for immediate disposal after measurement.
2Measurement precision
If existing uroflowmetry devices are used, then accurate urine flow rate measurements can be obtained, but the devices are bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated disposable device. The container, impeller, pressure sensor, and measurement electronics are combined into one unit that performs both urine collection and flow rate measurement simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate equipment and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
By making the entire device disposable, the patent simplifies the structure by eliminating the need for durable, reusable components that would require complex cleaning and sterilization systems. The device is designed for single use and immediate disposal, reducing structural complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If disposable materials are used, then the device is easy to dispose and environmentally friendly, but the energy source may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The biofuel cell is designed to be self-powered by utilizing the urine sample itself as fuel. The chemical energy in the urine directly powers the sensor electronics and data processing components, eliminating the need for external batteries or power sources and resolving the energy limitation issue of disposable devices.
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
Enables accurate and easy uroflowmetric measurements at home, reducing the need for specialized equipment and increasing the frequency of such measurements, while being affordable and environmentally friendly.
Implementation Method 1
an energy source arranged on said disposable container and connected to said at least one sensor, wherein the energy source comprises a biofuel cell arranged to provide power using a fluid
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~3c
Figure 4~5a
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a disposable analytical sensor device (1) comprising a disposable container (10) comprising an opening in fluid communication with an inside of the disposable container (10). The analytical sensor device (1) further comprising at least one sensor (12) arranged in fluid communication with the inside of said disposable container (10), the at least one sensor (12) being configured to measure at least one property of a fluid present in the disposable container (10), and an energy source (11) arranged on said disposable container and connected to said at least one sensor (12), wherein the energy source (11) comprises a biofuel cell arranged to provide power using a fluid.