Dynamic Insulin Sensitivity Assessment via Kinetic Modeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for determining insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients are inaccurate due to the limited number of applied rules and failure to re-evaluate this dynamic parameter, which is particularly significant for adolescent users undergoing frequent changes during puberty.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that assess insulin sensitivity by receiving parameters corresponding to insulin and glucose concentrations, applying kinetic models to determine plasma insulin and glucose levels, and periodically re-evaluating the insulin sensitivity value for precise basal and bolus dosage calculations, using a combination of glucometers and continuous glucose monitors integrated into a semi-closed loop insulin infusion device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional rules are used to determine insulin sensitivity, then the method is simple to implement, but the accuracy of insulin sensitivity determination is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsulin sensitivity determination accuracyVSAvoidassessment method complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static insulin sensitivity value into a dynamic parameter that is continuously updated based on real-time glucose monitoring data. The system periodically re-evaluates insulin sensitivity using kinetic models, allowing the assessment to adapt to changing physiological conditions, particularly during puberty when insulin sensitivity fluctuates frequently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements continuous feedback loops where glucose measurements are fed into kinetic models that update insulin sensitivity estimates. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust the insulin sensitivity value based on observed glucose responses to insulin administration, improving accuracy without requiring complex manual interventions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If insulin sensitivity is not re-evaluated periodically, then the assessment method is simple, but the parameter becomes outdated for adolescent users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsulin sensitivity parameter currencyVSAvoidtime for periodic re-evaluation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous glucose monitoring that enables ongoing assessment of insulin sensitivity without interruption. The system continuously collects glucose data and periodically updates the insulin sensitivity parameter, ensuring it remains current and reliable for dosing calculations throughout the day and across different physiological states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary assessments of insulin sensitivity during routine glucose monitoring periods, so that when dosing decisions need to be made, current and accurate sensitivity values are already available. This eliminates the need for separate, time-consuming assessment procedures at the point of care.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If manual calculation of insulin dosages is required, then the system is simple, but the burden on users is high and accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser burden for dosage calculationVSAvoidinsulin dosage accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically calculates insulin dosages using the updated insulin sensitivity parameter and current glucose readings, eliminating the need for users to perform manual calculations. The algorithm independently determines the appropriate bolus dose based on the carbohydrate intake and current glycemic state, reducing user burden while maintaining or improving dosing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual calculation with an automated computational system. The kinetic models and dosing algorithms are implemented in software that automatically processes glucose data and computes insulin recommendations, substituting human cognitive effort with machine-based calculation that is both faster and more consistent.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3130367B1A system for assessing insulin sensitivity
Publication Date: 2019.07.24 ROCHE DIABETES CARE GMBH
  • EP3130367B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3130367B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP3130367B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b

AI summary

A system for determining insulin sensitivity (IS) comprising at least one processor configured for: receiving a first parameter corresponding to an insulin dose in a subcutaneous tissue; applying a first kinetic model to obtain a plasma insulin concentration based on the first parameter; receiving a second parameter corresponding to a plasma glucose concentration; determining the insulin sensitivity (IS) based on the plasma insulin concentration and the second parameter; wherein the at least one processor is further configured for providing a recommendation to a user to validate the determined insulin sensitivity value (IS).