Hematocrit Measurement Using Square Wave Voltammetry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Point-of-care and over-the-counter blood testing methods using whole blood samples face challenges in accurately measuring hematocrit due to variations in individual blood compositions, temperature, and humidity, leading to potential test errors.
Innovation Solution
A method employing a test strip with multiple reaction regions and electrodes, utilizing square wave voltammetry to apply varying voltages and obtain feedbacks, which helps calculate hematocrit values by determining the ratio of feedbacks within a predetermined range, reducing errors from moisture and target analyte concentrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sets of square wave voltages are applied to obtain multiple feedbacks for hematocrit measurement, then the accuracy of hematocrit measurement is improved by minimizing the influence of external factors, but the testing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multiple sets of square wave voltages with different frequencies periodically to the electrodes. Each set of voltages generates a feedback signal, and by comparing the ratios of these feedbacks, the method determines hematocrit values while minimizing the influence of external factors such as temperature and humidity variations. This periodic application of different voltage sets enables accurate measurement without requiring complex calibration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes feedback from multiple voltage applications to improve measurement accuracy. By applying different sets of square wave voltages and obtaining corresponding feedback signals, the system calculates ratios between these feedbacks to determine hematocrit. This feedback mechanism allows the system to compensate for environmental variations and achieve more reliable measurements.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sets of square wave voltages are applied to obtain multiple feedbacks for hematocrit measurement, then the accuracy of hematocrit measurement is improved by minimizing the influence of external factors, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single test strip with electrodes that can perform multiple functions: applying different voltage sets, measuring feedback signals, and determining hematocrit values. The same electrode structure is used for all voltage applications, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices. This multi-functional approach maintains measurement accuracy while avoiding the complexity of having separate measurement systems for each voltage set.
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 provides accurate hematocrit measurements by minimizing the influence of external factors and target analyte concentrations, enhancing the reliability of whole blood testing.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of sets of square wave voltages are continuously applied to the pair of electrodes based on a square wave voltammetry method to obtain a plurality of feedbacks related to hematocrit
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A method of measuring hematocrit and a method of testing blood are provided. The method for measuring hematocrit includes the following steps. A test strip is provided. The test strip includes a reaction region and a pair of electrodes disposed in the reaction region. A whole blood sample is entered to the reaction region. After the whole blood sample enters the reaction region, a set of square wave voltages is applied to the pair of electrodes based on a square wave voltammetry method to obtain a feedback related to hematocrit. A difference between an initial time when the whole blood sample enters the reaction region and an initial time when the set of square wave voltage is applied ranges from 0.1 seconds to 200 seconds. A hematocrit value is calculated according to the feedback.