Opposing Substrate Sensor Array for Low-Volume Multi-Analyte Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test strip configurations require increased sample volume with the number of analytes detected, which is undesirable especially when samples are limited or expensive, such as in neonatal cases.
Innovation Solution
A test strip design featuring a first and second planar substrate with coplanar electrodes arranged in an opposing configuration, with a dielectric or insulating intermediate layer to isolate electrodes and define a fluid flow path, allowing for concurrent testing of multiple analytes with reduced sample volume, and simplifying the interface with medical instruments by using coplanar electrical contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple analytes are tested concurrently using traditional test strip configurations, then the number of analytes detected increases, but the sample volume required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a traditional single-plane electrode arrangement to a three-dimensional opposing substrate configuration. Multiple analytes are detected by placing electrodes on two opposing substrates that face each other, allowing concurrent testing of multiple analytes within a compact volume. This dimensional change enables increased analyte detection capacity without proportionally increasing sample volume requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where one substrate is positioned within the spatial envelope defined by the other substrate. The first substrate with its electrodes and the second substrate with its electrodes are arranged in a nested, opposing configuration that maximizes the use of available space. This nesting allows multiple sensing elements to be packed into a small volume, enabling multi-analyte detection with minimal sample volume.
2Ease of operation
If coplanar electrodes are used on a single substrate, then the interface with medical instruments is simplified, but the number of sensors per strip is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensor array into two separate substrates, each carrying its own set of coplanar electrodes. This segmentation allows each substrate to maintain the simplified coplanar interface geometry that is easy to connect to medical instruments, while the combination of both substrates provides increased sensor capacity for detecting multiple analytes simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The opposing substrate configuration serves multiple functions: it maintains coplanar electrode geometry for easy instrument interfacing on each substrate, while the three-dimensional arrangement between the two substrates enables increased sensor density and multi-analyte detection capability. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction between interface simplicity and sensor capacity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electrodes are placed close together to maximize sensor density, then the number of sensors per strip increases, but electrical isolation between electrodes becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate layer or spacing structure between the first substrate and the second substrate. This intermediary element provides electrical isolation between the electrodes on opposing substrates while maintaining close proximity for efficient sensing. The intermediate structure acts as a mediator that enables high sensor density without compromising electrical isolation reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different properties to different regions of the device. The regions between opposing electrodes are designed with specific dielectric or insulating properties to ensure electrical isolation, while the electrode regions maintain optimal geometry for sensing. This localized differentiation of properties enables both high sensor density and reliable electrical isolation.
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 design minimizes the sample volume required for testing multiple analytes while maximizing the number of sensors per strip and simplifying the interface with medical instruments, making it suitable for limited or expensive samples.
Implementation Method 1
The intermediate layer is made from a dielectric or insulating material which isolates coplanar electrodes (4) and coplanar electrodes (10) from one another
Implementation Method 2
The planar intermediate layer(s) define(s) a fluid flow path which allows fluid to flow from the inlet to the outlet of the strip
Data Source
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AI summary
In one illustrative embodiment, a test strip with a first planar substrate has coplanar electrodes on a first planar surface and a second planar substrate (which opposes the first surface of the first planar substrate) has coplanar electrodes on a second planar surface. The first planar surface of the first planar substrate having a first sensing area electrically connected to a first electrical contact. The second planar surface of the second planar substrate having a second electrical contact electrically connected to the first electrical contact via a conductive element, the conductive element extending between the first surface of the first planar substrate and the second surface of the second planar substrate without passing through the first planar substrate, the second planar substrate, or any intermediate layers.