Ingestible Spectrometer for Real-Time GI Tract Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack the capability for real-time, non-invasive assessment of gastrointestinal (GI) tract conditions and analyte presence, quantity, and location, limiting effective diagnosis and treatment of GI disorders and digestion profiling.
Innovation Solution
An ingestible device equipped with spectrometers that generate spectral data across various wavelengths, allowing for real-time detection and quantitation of analytes and tissue conditions within the GI tract, and a processing unit to analyze this data for digestion profiling and device localization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional GI tract assessment methods are used, then sample collection and laboratory analysis are required, but real-time assessment capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The ingestible device performs self-diagnosis by incorporating spectrometers and sensors that directly measure analytes, tissue conditions, and device location within the GI tract. The device autonomously collects spectral data, processes it through onboard algorithms, and transmits results externally, eliminating the need for external sample collection and laboratory analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical sample collection methods (tubes, containers, laboratory procedures) with optical and electromagnetic detection systems. Spectrometers use light-matter interactions to identify and quantify analytes, while wireless communication transmits data without physical sample transfer, achieving real-time assessment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spectroscopic techniques are implemented, then comprehensive analyte detection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ingestible device integrates multiple spectroscopic techniques (UV-Vis, NIR, Raman, FTIR) within a single compact platform, allowing one device to perform diverse analytical functions. This multi-functional approach enables detection of various analytes including drugs, nutrients, metabolites, and tissue characteristics without requiring separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a modular architecture where multiple spectroscopic subsystems are nested within the ingestible device housing. Each spectroscopic module (light source, detector, optical path) is compactly integrated, with components arranged to minimize space while maintaining functional independence. The nested structure allows complex capabilities within a swallowable form factor.
3Measurement precision
If spectral data is collected across multiple wavelengths, then analyte identification accuracy improves, but data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary data processing and spectral analysis onboard using embedded algorithms. Spectral data collected across multiple wavelengths is immediately processed to identify analyte signatures, filter noise, and extract quantitative information before transmission. This preliminary action reduces the complexity of external data processing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spectral libraries and reference databases as intermediary elements that facilitate analyte identification. Collected spectral data is compared against pre-stored reference spectra through pattern recognition algorithms, acting as an intermediary step that simplifies the complex task of identifying analytes from multi-wavelength data without requiring exhaustive external analysis.
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
Enables rapid, real-time assessment of GI tract conditions and analyte presence, facilitating accurate diagnosis, treatment protocols, and personalized digestion profiling without the need for sample collection.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source configured to emit light at a first wavelength, a first detector configured to detect light at the first wavelength; a second light source configured to emit light at a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, and a second detector configured to detect light at the second wavelength
Implementation Method 2
the first light source is configured to emit light radially towards an environment external to the device, and the first detector is configured to detect a radial reflectance from the environment external to the device
Data Source
AI summary
An ingestible device is disclosed which can produce spectral data of one or more analytes, as well as associated methods for characterizing the gastrointestinal tract of a subject which contains such analytes. Related kits and systems are also disclosed.