Glucose Sensor Double Layer Capacitance Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current continuous glucose monitoring systems face challenges such as prolonged sensor stabilization times, inaccurate readings due to electrode hydration issues, limited sensor life, frequent calibration needs, and inability to function independently of reference values, leading to inefficiencies and potential user errors.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method involving real-time monitoring of glucose sensors using physical sensor electronics and a working electrode to measure double layer capacitance, allowing for improved stabilization, hydration detection, and autonomous diagnostics, including the use of redundant electrodes and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) for assessing sensor health and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional glucose sensors are inserted into the patient's skin, then glucose measurement function is provided, but sensor stabilization time is prolonged (3 hours or more)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-hydrating the electrode with a hydrogel layer containing aqueous solution before sensor insertion. This pre-preparation eliminates the need for prolonged in-vivo stabilization time, as the electrode is already in a hydrated, functional state upon insertion, reducing stabilization from 3+ hours to minimal time while ensuring measurement accuracy from the start
2Duration of action of moving object
If sensor operating life is extended beyond pre-set life, then more measurement data is obtained, but measurement reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring sensor parameters (impedance, capacitance, current) and comparing them against expected ranges. When parameters deviate indicating sensor degradation or malfunction, the system provides feedback to alert the user and prevent further unreliable measurements, thus extending useful sensor life while maintaining reliability through active monitoring
3Productivity
If electrode is not sufficiently hydrated, then sensor can be used immediately, but measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-hydrating the electrode with a hydrogel layer containing aqueous solution before sensor insertion. This pre-preparation ensures the electrode is already in a hydrated, functional state upon insertion, eliminating the need for prolonged in-vivo stabilization time, reducing stabilization from 3+ hours to minimal time while ensuring measurement accuracy from the start
4Measurement precision
If frequent calibration is performed, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but user convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring sensor parameters (impedance, capacitance, current) and comparing them against expected ranges. When parameters deviate indicating sensor degradation or malfunction, the system provides feedback to alert the user and prevent further unreliable measurements, thus extending useful sensor life while maintaining reliability through active monitoring
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 reduces sensor stabilization time, enhances accuracy by ensuring proper hydration, extends sensor life, minimizes calibration requirements, and enables more reliable, autonomous glucose monitoring without the need for frequent reference finger sticks.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor in contact with a bodily fluid, an optical sensor, an enzymatic sensor
Implementation Method 2
the electrical readings from the sensor, which represent the glucose level of the patient
Implementation Method 3
a capacitor coupled to the working electrode and having a capacitance value that maintains a substantially constant potential at the working electrode
Data Source
AI summary
The double layer capacitance of a working electrode of a sensor may be measured with minimal disruption to the sensor equilibrium by open circuiting the working electrode and measuring the voltage drift on a periodic, or as-needed, basis. The values of the double layer capacitance may be monitored over time to determine, e.g., sensor age and condition.