Fabric-Based Sugar Detection Using Disposable Enzymatic Strips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the presence or amount of sugars on surfaces are not rapid, sensitive, or inexpensive, often requiring unstable enzymes, high temperatures, or hazardous chemicals, and are not suitable for fabric-based tests.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using a fabric to chemically modify analytes, such as sugars, with reagents printed on the fabric, allowing for detection at room temperature without the need for heating, and including means to inactivate interfering agents, enabling a rapid and sensitive test for carbohydrates like fructose, dextrin, lactose, and sucrose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If current methods for sugar detection are used, then detection can be performed, but the methods are slow, require professional expertise, and are not rapid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable test strips with pre-applied reagents that perform multiple functions in a single use. These strips contain dried enzyme formulations, substrates, and indicators that work together to provide rapid sugar detection without requiring professional expertise. The disposable nature eliminates the need for complex equipment and specialized training while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The test strips are designed to perform self-diagnosis functions where the reagents automatically react with sugar samples to produce visible color changes. The system includes built-in controls and reference areas that allow users to interpret results without professional guidance. The enzymatic reactions and colorimetric indicators work autonomously to provide rapid results.
2Measurement precision
If enzymatic methods are used for sugar detection, then detection sensitivity is improved, but the enzymes are unstable and require special storage conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite material systems where enzymes are combined with protective matrices, substrates, and stabilizing agents in layered structures on the test strip. This composite approach allows the enzymes to maintain high activity and sensitivity while being protected from degradation. The layered composite structure includes enzyme-containing layers, substrate layers, and indicator layers that work together to enhance both sensitivity and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the physical and chemical state of enzymes through drying processes, pH adjustment, and temperature control during manufacturing. The enzymes are converted from aqueous solutions to dried formulations that exhibit enhanced stability. The test strip design controls local pH and moisture parameters to maintain enzyme activity while preventing degradation during storage and use.
3Measurement precision
If copper reduction methods are used for sugar detection, then detection can be performed, but heating is required which increases energy consumption and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces thermal energy input with biochemical reactions that occur at ambient temperatures. Instead of using copper reduction methods that require heating, the system employs enzymatic oxidation reactions followed by colorimetric detection that proceed spontaneously at room temperature. This substitution eliminates the need for heating apparatus while maintaining detection precision through the specificity of enzymatic reactions.
4Measurement precision
If strong acids are used in acetal formation or anthrone methods, then sugar detection can be performed, but hazardous chemicals are required which are unsafe for everyday use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses disposable test strips that contain pre-measured, safe concentrations of reagents in dried form. The single-use nature of these strips eliminates the need for handling hazardous chemicals in concentrated forms. The reagents are formulated to be effective at low concentrations and are contained within the strip structure, preventing exposure risks while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pH parameters and chemical form of reagents from strong acids to milder, safer alternatives that function effectively in the test strip format. The enzymatic methods operate at physiological pH ranges, eliminating the need for strong acids. The colorimetric indicators used are safe, non-hazardous compounds that provide sufficient contrast for detection without posing safety risks.
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
The method allows for the detection of sugars at low concentrations, achieving a detection limit of 0.01 g/l, making it suitable for hygiene assessment in various environments without specialized training or equipment, and is cost-effective and safe for everyday use.
Implementation Method 1
chemically modifying said analyte if present in the sample
Implementation Method 2
detecting the presence or amount of said chemically-modified analyte
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method, device, and kit for analyzing a sample for determining the presence or amount of an analyte, particularly carbohydrate, more particularly sugar, in the sample using a fabric.