Dual-Chamber Analytical Test Strip for Redundant Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analyte measurement systems face challenges with user error in fluid sample introduction and noise interference, particularly when measuring multiple samples for accuracy and verification, due to small sample ports and fluctuating analyte levels over time.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an analytical test strip with two fluidically separated sample cells and a test meter equipped with a processor to detect electrical properties in each sample cell, allowing for redundant measurements without the need to change strips, thereby reducing noise influence and improving convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single sample cell is used in the test strip, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to user error and noise interference
Solution Approach 1:
The test strip is divided into two fluidically separated sample cells (first sample cell and second sample cell), each capable of receiving and measuring a fluid sample independently. This segmentation allows for redundant measurements to be taken, improving measurement precision by enabling verification of results and reducing the impact of user error or noise interference in a single measurement.
2Measurement precision
If multiple test strips are used to take redundant measurements, then the measurement precision improves, but the loss of time increases due to the need to change strips
Solution Approach 1:
Two previously separate test strips are merged into a single test strip structure with two fluidically separated sample cells. This allows both measurements to be performed on one strip without the need to change strips between measurements, eliminating the time loss associated with strip changes while maintaining the precision benefits of redundant measurements.
3Ease of operation
If small sample ports are used in the test strip, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in introducing fluid samples
Solution Approach 1:
The sample introduction system is segmented into two separate sample ports corresponding to the two sample cells. This segmentation provides users with alternative pathways for sample introduction, making it easier to successfully introduce fluid samples without requiring complex mechanisms, as users can try one port if another proves difficult.
4Measurement precision
If rapid sequential measurements are taken to reduce metabolic changes, then the measurement precision improves, but the loss of time increases due to the need for multiple separate test strips
Solution Approach 1:
The test strip design merges two measurement capabilities into one strip, allowing rapid sequential measurements to be performed on the same strip without the time penalty of removing and replacing strips. This enables truly rapid sequential measurements that minimize metabolic changes in the analyte while maintaining operational simplicity.
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 solution enables more accurate and convenient analyte measurement by allowing two independent readings to be taken quickly, reducing the impact of measurement noise and metabolic changes, and providing a means for users to verify results without the need for multiple strips.
Implementation Method 1
the test meter has a processor configured to detect an electrical property of a fluid sample in the first sample cell and detect a second electrical property of the fluid sample in the other sample cell
Data Source
AI summary
An analytical test strip can include a patterned definition layer defining two fluidically-separated sample cells having respective ports, a common electrode arranged over the definition layer and in electrical communication with each of the cells, and respective cell electrodes. Surface portions of each electrode can be exposed. A method for testing a fluid sample using such a strip includes receiving a first fluid sample in the first sample cell and detecting a first electrical property thereof. It is then determined whether a second fluid sample should be added to the other sample cell. An analyte measurement system can include such a strip and test meter to receive the strip. The test meter can detect respective electrical properties of fluid samples in the cells.