On-Container Coding for Diagnostic Meter Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnostic testing systems are cumbersome and prone to errors due to the need for separate components and complex calibration processes, which can lead to incorrect results, especially for users who struggle with manual calibration or mismanagement of test media and meters.
Innovation Solution
An integrated diagnostic testing system where the meter and test media container are combined, with on-container coding methods such as conductive patterns, memory chips, or RF tags to ensure accurate calibration and prevent incorrect usage of test strips, and a refillable container option to reduce waste and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual coding methods (buttons, code entry) are used to calibrate the meter, then the meter can be calibrated with different test media brands, but the process becomes complex and error-prone for users
Solution Approach 1:
The test media container automatically provides calibration data to the meter through an integrated coding system. The container includes a code chip or coded contact pads that automatically transfer calibration parameters to the meter when placed in the receptacle, eliminating the need for manual user input and reducing errors while maintaining compatibility with different test media brands
Solution Approach 2:
A code chip or coded contact pads serve as an intermediary between the test media container and the meter. This intermediary automatically transfers calibration data when the container is placed in the receptacle, simplifying the calibration process while enabling compatibility with multiple test media brands through standardized interfaces
2Measurement precision
If code chips are used for calibration, then accurate calibration data can be transferred, but the code chip can be misplaced or lost
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration data is merged directly into the test media container structure through integrated coding elements (code chip mounted on container or coded contact pads formed on container surface). This eliminates the need for separate, removable code chips that can be misplaced, while maintaining accurate calibration data transfer to the meter
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration data is copied from a permanent source (manufactured into the container structure) rather than using removable physical media. Coded contact pads are formed directly on the container surface, creating a permanent, non-removable copy of the calibration information that cannot be misplaced or lost
3Adaptability or versatility
If the meter and test media container are separate components, then the meter can be reused with different containers, but the components can be separated and lost
Solution Approach 1:
The meter is nested within the test media container structure, with the container serving as a housing or carrying case for the meter. This nested arrangement keeps the meter and container associated, preventing separation and loss, while still allowing the meter to be removed and used with different containers through standardized interfaces
4Adaptability or versatility
If calibration parameters are stored in the meter, then the meter can be calibrated for different brands, but users may enter incorrect codes or use mismatched test media
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback to verify proper association between the meter and test media container. The meter reads the code from the container and provides visual or audible confirmation that the correct calibration parameters have been loaded, preventing users from entering incorrect codes or using mismatched test media while maintaining multi-brand calibration capability
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
The integrated system simplifies the testing process, reduces errors by ensuring proper calibration, and minimizes the risk of using incorrect test strips, while also offering a cost-effective and convenient solution through the use of refillable containers.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically conductive coding pattern placed on a substrate, such that the meter makes contact with the coding pattern when attached
Implementation Method 2
a coded memory chip inserted into a receptacle on the meter
Implementation Method 3
a radio frequency (RF) tag that contains lot calibration information
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for diagnostic testing may include a meter for performing a diagnostic test on a sample applied to a test media, the meter having a housing and an interface for receiving a signal representing coding information, and a container configured to contain test media compatible with the meter, the container having a coding element associated therewith. Additionally, the system may provide a mechanisms for removing the meter from an interconnected test container and reattaching it to a new container using on-container coding methods that can recalibrate the meter for the new container of test strips. The system may further provide a sampling device, such as a lancet, operably connected to the container such that that a user may use the sampling device to obtain a sample without disconnecting the sampling device from the container. In addition, the system may further provide a refillable test strip container which includes a foil pouch of test strips with a desiccant pill used to refill test strip container when empty.