Fluorescence Sweat Sensor Using UV-LED and Optical Filter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensors for detecting biomarkers in sweat samples, such as electrochemical and colorimetric sensors, lack accuracy and are costly, making them unsuitable for widespread use outside laboratory settings.
Innovation Solution
A skin patch system with integrated sensors and a fluorescence detector using UV-LED light and a light filter to capture fluorescence emissions from impregnated filter papers, allowing for non-invasive and accurate measurement of biomarkers like glucose, lactate, chloride, pH, and volume in sweat samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrochemical sensors or colorimetric sensors are used to detect biomarkers in sweat samples, then the detection can be performed outside laboratory settings, but the accuracy is insufficient and the fabrication cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrochemical and colorimetric sensing mechanisms with a fluorescence-based optical detection system. The sensor uses fluorescent compounds that emit light when exposed to UV-LED illumination, allowing biomarker detection through optical rather than electrochemical means. This substitution enables the use of simple UV-LED lights and cameras for detection, improving portability while maintaining or enhancing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from electrical signals (electrochemical) or color changes (colorimetric) to fluorescence intensity. By measuring the intensity of fluorescent emission at specific wavelengths, the system achieves high detection accuracy. The fluorescence intensity varies with biomarker concentration, enabling precise quantification through optical measurement rather than electrical or visual assessment.
2Ease of operation
If electrochemical sensors or colorimetric sensors are used to detect biomarkers in sweat samples, then the detection can be performed outside laboratory settings, but the fabrication cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable sensor strips impregnated with fluorescent compounds on filter paper or similar substrates. These low-cost, single-use sensors eliminate the need for expensive, complex electrochemical sensor fabrication. The sensors can be mass-produced using simple impregnation techniques, dramatically reducing fabrication costs while maintaining portability for outdoor use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electrochemical sensor assemblies with simple optical components - UV-LED lights and cameras - that are inexpensive and readily available. This substitution eliminates the need for costly electrochemical sensor fabrication while enabling portable detection. The optical system uses common components that can be manufactured at low cost, making the overall system economically viable for widespread use.
3Measurement precision
If a fluorescence detector with UV-LED light source and light filter is used, then accurate biomarker detection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the fluorescence detector to perform multiple functions using a single integrated system. The UV-LED light source serves both as the excitation source for fluorescent compounds and as a compact, portable illumination device. The camera captures fluorescence intensity across different wavelengths, enabling detection of multiple biomarkers simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying the overall device despite the sophisticated detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes fluorescence - a form of light emission - as the detection mechanism. Different biomarkers produce characteristic fluorescence intensities or wavelength patterns, allowing identification and quantification through optical measurement. The light filter selectively transmits specific wavelengths to enhance the signal from target biomarkers while blocking background interference. This optical approach uses natural photophysical phenomena rather than complex mechanical or electrical systems, simplifying the device architecture while maintaining high detection accuracy.
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 system provides a cost-effective and accurate method for detecting biomarkers in sweat samples, enabling rapid analysis and potentially aiding in the diagnosis of diseases like diabetes and cystic fibrosis, with results showing reliable fluorescence intensity measurements for different concentrations and pH values.
Implementation Method 1
an exemplary fluorescence detector may further include at least one UV-LED light source. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary at least one UV-LED light source may be configured to irradiate light onto a top surface of an exemplary sample
Implementation Method 2
an exemplary fluorescence detector may further include at least a light filter. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary light filter may be disposed within an exemplary light-tight chamber above an exemplary UV-LED light source
Implementation Method 3
an exemplary cotton thread may be configured to transfer sweat from an exemplary exposed portion of an exemplary target skin region to an exemplary senor
Data Source
AI summary
A system may be introduced for detecting biomarkers in a sweat sample. The system may include a skin patch and a fluorescence detector. The skin patch may include an adhesive tape with a central hole. The skin patch may further include a fluorescence sensor removably attached on the adhesive tape. The skin patch may further include at least one cotton thread. The fluorescence detector may include a light-tight chamber. The fluorescence detector may further include a sample holder removably disposed within the light-tight chamber. The fluorescence detector may further include at least one UV-LED light source may be positioned above the sample holder. The fluorescence detector may further include at least a light filter may be disposed within the light-tight chamber above the UV-LED light source. The fluorescence detector may further include an image capturing device may be disposed within the light-tight chamber.