Microfluidic Sweat Biosensor Patch for Multi-Biomolecule Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable devices for detecting biomolecules in sweat are limited to enzyme sensor technology for glucose measurement and are unable to efficiently sample and detect proteins, small molecules, or other biomolecules, requiring a technology that enables sweat sampling and measurement reactions, particularly for skin-attachment systems.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic device with a fluidic passing layer, fluidic connection layer, and biosensor patch that includes arch-type flap valves, check valves, and burst valves, along with a hydrophilic polymer coating, to efficiently collect, transfer, and detect biomolecules in sweat using an affinity-based nanostructure biosensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If enzyme sensor technology is used for glucose measurement, then glucose detection is achieved, but detection of proteins and small molecules is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal sensing platform that integrates multiple sensing elements (enzyme sensors, affinity sensors, and small molecule sensors) within a single microfluidic device, enabling simultaneous detection of glucose, proteins, and small molecules through sweat sampling
2Adaptability or versatility
If affinity-based biosensor is used for protein detection, then detection of proteins and small molecules is enabled, but device complexity increases due to required labeling, washing, and reagent injection
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic device employs passive fluidic transport mechanisms including capillary action, gravity-driven flow, and pressure differential-based pumping to automatically move sweat samples through the device without requiring external pumps, valves, or complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates complex components (external pumps, valves, labeling systems, and washing mechanisms) by implementing simplified on-chip fluidic control through passive transport mechanisms and integrated microfluidic channels that guide sample flow directly to sensing zones
3Quantity of substance
If sweat sampling is performed using cotton fabrics or absorption pads, then sweat collection is achieved, but measurement reaction detection is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sweat sampling function and measurement detection function into a single integrated microfluidic device, where sweat collected from the skin is automatically transported through microchannels to sensing elements that perform real-time detection of biomolecules
4Ease of operation
If wearable device is designed for skin attachment, then portability is improved, but integration of labeling, washing, and reagent injection functions becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional modules (sampling zone, transport channel, sensing zone, and waste disposal) that are miniaturized and integrated onto a flexible substrate, enabling each function to be performed in a dedicated compartment while maintaining overall device compactness and wearability
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic device is constructed on a flexible thin-film substrate that can conform to the skin surface, enabling comfortable wear while integrating multiple fluidic channels and sensing elements in a compact form factor
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 efficient detection and measurement of various biomolecules, including proteins and small molecules, in sweat by electrochemical signals, with the ability to measure concentration and facilitate real-time monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The first microchannel may include an arch-type flap valve configured to prevent fluid from flowing towards the inlet part
Implementation Method 2
The second microchannel may include a check valve
Implementation Method 3
The third microchannel may include a burst valve
Implementation Method 4
The sensing element may include a microchannel configured to induce a capillary phenomenon
Implementation Method 5
The microfluidic device may include a hydrophilic polymer formed on an elastic polymer
Implementation Method 6
a skin-attachment-type biosensor patch equipped with all these functionalities... affinity-based biosensor
Data Source
AI summary
A microfluidic device for detecting biomolecules in sweat, and a biosensor patch for detecting biomolecules in sweat, in which the microfluidic device and a biosensor are combined, the device and the patch being capable of detecting various target molecules present in sweat by electrochemical signals and also detecting the concentration of a target molecule.