Embedded Strip Lot Autocalibration via Resistance Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diagnostic test strips for measuring blood glucose levels require manual input of lot-specific codes, leading to potential user errors and increased manufacturing costs due to barcode requirements, which can result in inaccurate measurements.
Innovation Solution
The diagnostic test strip features a conductive layer with varying resistance values, achieved through different materials or combinations, allowing the meter to automatically identify calibration coefficients by reading the resistance patterns, eliminating the need for manual code input and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual input of lot-specific codes is required, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but user error increases and measurement accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The test strip automatically provides calibration information through its own structure. The conductive pattern with varying resistance values serves as a self-contained identifier that the meter reads automatically, eliminating the need for manual user input and ensuring accurate calibration without user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual code input system with an electrical resistance-based identification system. The conductive pattern's resistance values are read electrically by the meter, substituting the manual mechanical process of code entry with an automated electrical measurement process.
2Measurement precision
If barcode is incorporated onto individual strips, then identification accuracy is improved, but manufacturing costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple, inexpensive conductive pattern with varying resistance values instead of expensive barcodes. The identification information is encoded through the electrical properties of the conductive pattern, which can be manufactured cost-effectively using standard test strip fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent encodes identification information by changing the electrical resistance parameter of the conductive pattern. Different resistance values correspond to different lot identifiers, allowing information encoding through a simple electrical property rather than through complex visual barcodes.
3Extent of automation
If conductive pattern with varying resistance is used, then automation of calibration is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the calibration identification function with the existing conductive pattern structure of the test strip. The conductive pattern that is already necessary for electrical connections also serves as the calibration identifier, combining two functions into a single structure rather than adding separate calibration markings.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive pattern serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connectivity between electrodes and simultaneously encodes calibration identification information through its varying resistance values. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated identification structures.
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 enhances measurement accuracy by automating the calibration process, reduces user error, and allows for cost-effective production and packaging of test strips with embedded lot-specific codes, enabling reliable and efficient monitoring of blood glucose levels.
Implementation Method 1
The diagnostic test strip features a conductive layer with varying resistance values, achieved through different materials or combinations, allowing the meter to automatically identify calibration coefficients by reading the resistance patterns
Implementation Method 2
When the user applies a blood sample to the sample chamber, the reagents react with the glucose, and the meter applies a voltage to the electrodes to cause a redox reaction. The meter measures the resulting current and calculates the glucose level based on the current
Data Source
AI summary
An auto-calibration system for diagnostic test strips is described for presenting data individually carried on each test strip readable by a diagnostic meter. The test strip meter may provide a predetermined varying resistance on one strip or a plurality of varying resistances from strip lot to strip lot.