Dual Cantilever Sensor for Analyte Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor devices for detecting analytes in samples face challenges in specificity and accuracy due to background noise and the need for reference measurements, which complicates the measurement process and reduces the sensitivity of analyte detection.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device comprising a test cantilever with a receptor layer and a reference cantilever with a non-reactive layer, both equipped with transducer layers, allows for simultaneous measurement in the sample, enabling the calibration of the test cantilever measurements by comparing them to the reference cantilever, thereby reducing environmental interference and enhancing specificity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a test cantilever with receptor layer is used for analyte detection, then sensitivity of analyte detection is improved, but background noise and environmental interference increase measurement complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is segmented into two independent cantilevers: a test cantilever with receptor layer for analyte detection and a reference cantilever with non-reactive layer for background measurement. This segmentation allows parallel measurement of analyte signal and background noise, simplifying the overall measurement process while maintaining high sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference cantilever acts as an intermediary that measures environmental interference and background noise. By comparing the test cantilever signal with the reference cantilever signal, the system automatically compensates for background noise and environmental influences, reducing measurement complexity without sacrificing sensitivity.
2Measurement precision
If reference measurements are performed separately to reduce background noise, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Both the test cantilever and reference cantilever perform measurements simultaneously and continuously in parallel. The test cantilever detects analyte binding while the reference cantilever continuously monitors background noise and environmental interference, eliminating the need for sequential reference measurements and reducing total measurement time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic differential measurement cycles where the signals from test and reference cantilevers are continuously compared. This periodic comparison approach maintains high measurement accuracy by constantly subtracting background noise from the analyte signal without requiring separate measurement phases.
3Measurement precision
If environmental interference is minimized through separate reference measurements, then specificity of analyte detection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each cantilever is designed with specific local qualities: the test cantilever has a receptor layer tailored for specific analyte binding, while the reference cantilever has a non-reactive layer designed to match physical properties but lack specific analyte interaction. This local differentiation enables high specificity through differential measurement while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system exploits parameter changes in the differential signal between test and reference cantilevers. By measuring the difference in deflection, surface stress, or other physical parameters between the two cantilevers, the system enhances specificity for analyte detection while the simple dual-cantilever structure avoids excessive complexity.
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 simplifies the measurement process, increases the specificity of analyte detection, and improves the accuracy of quantifying analyte presence and concentration by minimizing background noise and environmental influences.
Implementation Method 1
A deformation specifically induced by an analyte is achieved by coating one side of the cantilever with a receptor layer containing binding molecules that specifically bind to a specific analyte to be examined, thereby causing a unilaterally altered surface tension of the cantilever.
Implementation Method 2
The deformation of the cantilever is converted into an electrically detected value, particularly by an electrical transducer applied to the cantilever
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
The present invention relates to a sensor device (6) for detecting the presence and/or concentration and/or quantity of an analyte (90) in a sample (9), comprising a sensor (1), connection electronics (60), and a housing (62), wherein the sensor (1) is configured to convert chemical and/or biochemical information of an analyte (90), preferably a virus (902), in a sample (9) into an electrical signal, wherein the sensor (1) comprises a test cantilever (2) having a base (20) and a deformable part (22), wherein at least on the deformable part (22) a receptor layer (24) for selective uptake of the analyte (90) is applied, wherein the sensor comprises a reference cantilever (3) having a base (30) and a deformable part (32), wherein on the deformable part (32) a reference layer (34) for selective non-uptake of the analyte (90) is applied. is upset.