Modular Diagnostic Meter With Interchangeable Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnostic meters are often bulky, costly, inconvenient, and complex, making it difficult and expensive to upgrade to new models with desired features, and users must manage separate devices for testing and sampling systems, which can become cumbersome and separated.
Innovation Solution
A customizable diagnostic meter with a housing that includes slots for removably securing user-changeable modules, such as passive and active modules, which can extend the feature set without adding significant cost or complexity to the base meter, allowing users to select and interchange modules like vials, lancing devices, USB modules, wireless connection modules, and others.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users purchase a new diagnostic meter with desired features, then the feature set is improved, but the cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic meter is divided into a base meter and separate interchangeable modules. Each module provides specific functions (e.g., sampling system, testing system, communication features). Users can select and swap modules based on needs, avoiding the complexity of purchasing complete new meters for each additional feature.
Solution Approach 2:
The base meter is designed with universal interfaces and slots that can accommodate multiple types of modules. A single base meter can support various sampling systems, testing systems, and communication modules through standardized connection mechanisms, enabling one device to perform multiple diagnostic functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users purchase a new diagnostic meter with desired features, then the feature set is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into a base meter and separate modules, users only pay for the base meter once and then purchase only the specific modules they need. This eliminates the cost of purchasing complete new meters for each additional feature while allowing feature expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
When users need different features, they can discard old modules and recover the base meter. This allows users to retain the investment in the base meter while replacing only the functional modules, reducing overall system cost compared to purchasing entirely new meters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users carry a meter and separate sampling/testing systems, then functionality is complete, but the devices become cumbersome and may become separated
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling system, testing system, and diagnostic meter are merged into an integrated modular unit. Modules can be physically connected to the base meter through mechanical and electrical interfaces, creating a unified device that reduces the risk of separation and simplifies carrying compared to multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
While maintaining integration, the system uses segmentation to allow modular replacement. Users can detach and replace specific modules (e.g., sampling system, testing system) independently while keeping the base meter, providing flexibility without the complexity of managing multiple separate devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A customizable diagnostic meter is provided. The diagnostic meter includes a meter for performing a diagnostic test, wherein the meter includes a housing having a slot, and a module having one or more functions. The slot is configured to receive and removably secure at least a portion of the module. A customizable diagnostic meter kit including two or more modules configured to be inserted in a meter is also provided.