Electrochemical Sensor Stability via Capacitance Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochemical sensors for analyte concentration determination in physiological fluids face degradation in accuracy due to storage conditions, leading to unreliable results over time, especially when exposed to high temperatures and humidity.
Innovation Solution
The system and method involve using an electrochemical cell with a potential applied and current measured, along with a correction factor calculated based on a physical property like capacitance to minimize the impact of storage conditions, allowing for rapid and accurate analyte concentration determination in samples such as glucose or C-reactive protein in blood.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If electrochemical sensors are stored for long periods or in non-optimal conditions (high temperature, high humidity), then the sensor performance degrades and accuracy is reduced, but extending shelf life and maintaining accuracy under various storage conditions is desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring the capacitance of the electrochemical cell before use and calculating a correction factor based on this measurement. This pre-assessment of the cell's physical state allows the system to compensate for storage-induced changes, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy throughout the sensor's shelf life without requiring optimal storage conditions.
2Measurement precision
If electrochemical sensors are stored in non-optimal conditions, then the physical properties of the electrochemical cell change, but rapid and accurate analyte concentration determination is still required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the capacitance of the electrochemical cell, using this measurement to calculate a correction factor, and then applying this correction factor to the analyte concentration determination. This closed-loop approach continuously compensates for storage condition effects, ensuring accurate measurements regardless of how the cell's physical properties have changed during storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by measuring a physical parameter (capacitance) of the electrochemical cell and using this information to adjust the measurement process through a correction factor. This allows the system to adapt to changes in the cell's physical state caused by storage conditions, maintaining measurement precision without requiring controlled storage environments.
3Reliability
If correction factors based on physical properties are applied, then the effect of storage conditions is minimized, but additional measurement and calculation steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using the electrochemical cell's capacitance measurement for dual purposes: it characterizes the cell's physical state for correction purposes and is integrated into the existing measurement workflow. This multi-functional approach allows the system to compensate for storage effects without requiring separate dedicated equipment or complex additional procedures, as the capacitance measurement leverages the cell's inherent electrical properties.
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 the reliability and accuracy of analyte concentration measurements by accounting for the physical properties of the electrochemical cell, particularly capacitance, which correlates with storage conditions, thereby improving the long-term stability and performance of the sensors.
Implementation Method 1
A parameter correlating to a physical property of the electrochemical cell is measured. In one aspect, the parameter correlating to a physical property of the electrochemical cell can include a measured capacitance of the electrochemical cell.
Implementation Method 2
an electrochemical cell made up of at least two electrodes, i.e., a working electrode and a counter electrode, where the electrodes have an impedance that renders them suitable for amperometric or coulometric measurement
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~4B
Figure 5
AI summary
Methods for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample, and the devices and systems used in conjunction with the same, are provided herein. In one exemplary embodiment of a method for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample, a sample including an analyte is provided in a sample analyzing device having a working and a counter electrode. An electric potential is applied between the electrodes and a measurement of a parameter correlating to changes in a physical property of the sample analyzing device is calculated. A concentration of the analyte in view of the parameter correlating to a change in the physical property can then be determined. Systems and devices that take advantage of the parameter correlating to changes in a physical property to make analyte concentration determinations are also provided.