NFC-Enabled Electrochemical Test Sensor for Wireless Analyte Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional analyte determination systems require an analyte meter, which can be cumbersome for users and involves a learning curve, setup, and limited algorithm modification capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An electrochemical test sensor with a near-field communication (NFC) tag chip, analog front end, and microcontroller that can operate independently of an analyte meter, allowing for wireless data transmission to an NFC-enabled reader for analyte information determination, eliminating the need for a separate meter and enabling easy algorithm updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an analyte meter is used to determine analyte concentration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the analyte sensing functionality with NFC communication capabilities into a single integrated test sensor. The sensor includes an electrochemical sensing element, NFC tag chip, analog front end, and microcontroller all in one device, eliminating the need for a separate analyte meter while maintaining measurement precision through wireless data transmission to a smartphone or reader.
Solution Approach 2:
The test sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: electrochemical analyte detection, wireless data transmission via NFC, and potential algorithm updates. This multi-functional design replaces the traditional analyte meter, reducing system complexity while preserving measurement capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If an analyte meter is used to determine analyte concentration, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to setup and learning curve
Solution Approach 1:
The NFC-enabled test sensor performs self-identification and data transmission automatically when brought near an NFC reader or smartphone. The sensor contains all necessary communication protocols and data formatting capabilities, eliminating the need for users to configure settings or learn complex operations while maintaining accurate analyte measurement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an analyte meter is used, then algorithm modification capability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the algorithm processing and heavy computational functions from the test sensor itself and places them in the external NFC-enabled reader or smartphone. The sensor contains only the essential electrochemical sensing elements and minimal processing needed for data acquisition, while the adaptable algorithm library resides in the reader, allowing flexible modification without increasing sensor complexity.
4Ease of operation
If wireless data transmission is implemented without an analyte meter, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical connection between test sensor and analyte meter with wireless NFC communication. The electrochemical measurement process remains unchanged, ensuring measurement precision is maintained, while the wireless data transmission eliminates the need for physical meter insertion and improves ease of operation.
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 solution provides user convenience by eliminating the need for an analyte meter, reducing setup complexity, and facilitating frequent algorithm updates, enhancing speed and convenience in analyte concentration determination, particularly in emergency settings.
Implementation Method 1
a near field communication (NFC) tag chip... Data is wirelessly transmitted from the electrochemical reaction via the NFC tag chip of the electrochemical test sensor to the NFC-enabled reader
Implementation Method 2
The base includes an enzyme adapted to react with the analyte... The analog front end assists in starting an electrochemical reaction with the analyte of the fluid sample
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochemical test sensor is adapted to receive a fluid sample including an analyte. The electrochemical test sensor includes a base. The base includes an enzyme adapted to react with the analyte. The electrochemical test sensor further includes a plurality of electrodes, a near field communication (NFC) tag chip, an analog front end (AFE) and a microcontroller.