Optical Encoding of Analytical Consumables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for coding analytical consumables in medical diagnostics are complex, require high technical demands, and can contaminate the consumables, making them impractical for high information density and flexible adaptation.
Innovation Solution
A method using optically sensitive materials applied to a carrier, where functional information is encoded with electromagnetic radiation, such as lasers, allowing for high information density without complex printing processes, and enabling correct device interaction without additional components or user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional coding methods (printing, labeling) are used to code analytical consumables, then functional information can be transmitted to the analytical instrument, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and requires high technical demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical printing and labeling processes with direct optical encoding. Information is stored as optical patterns (transparent and opaque structures) that can be read by the analytical instrument's optical system, eliminating the need for complex printing machinery and post-manufacturing labeling steps
Solution Approach 2:
The coding structures are integrated directly into the consumable's existing components (test tape, housing, or analytical aid), serving dual purposes: structural functionality and information storage. This eliminates the need for separate coding systems and reduces overall device complexity
2Loss of information
If structured application of marking substances is used for coding, then functional information can be encoded, but the manufacturing process requires high resolution and flexibility adaptation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces precision printing processes with optical encoding methods where information is stored as transparent/opaque patterns that can be manufactured using standard manufacturing tolerances. The optical reading system compensates for variations, eliminating the need for high-resolution printing equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the encoding approach from visual/printing parameters (ink density, print resolution) to optical parameters (transparency, refraction, reflection). This allows information to be encoded using existing manufacturing processes without requiring high precision, as the optical properties can be achieved with standard tolerances
3Loss of information
If coding materials are applied during manufacturing, then functional information can be stored, but contamination of analytical reagents may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical marking substances (inks, dyes, labels) with optical encoding structures that are either transparent or integrated into the consumable's existing materials. This eliminates contamination risks from external coding materials while maintaining information storage capability through optical patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the consumable's existing transparent or translucent materials (housing, test tape substrate) as the medium for encoding information. These materials are already part of the consumable and do not introduce foreign contaminants, serving as both structural components and information carriers
4Extent of automation
If additional code carriers (ROM keys, high-frequency labels) are used, then functional information can be transmitted automatically, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coding function with existing consumable components (test tape, housing, or analytical aid). Information is encoded directly into these components using their existing materials and structures, eliminating the need for separate code carriers like ROM keys or RFID labels, thereby reducing component count and manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing consumable components serve dual purposes: their primary analytical function and information storage function. The test tape substrate, housing, or analytical aid materials are used both for their intended purpose and as the medium for encoding functional information, eliminating the need for additional dedicated coding components
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 simple and high-resolution coding with high information density, reducing production costs and minimizing contamination risks, while ensuring accurate device interaction and usage of analytical consumables.
Implementation Method 1
The optically sensitive material is configured to undergo at least one optically detectable change when exposed to electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing an analytical consumable (112). The analytical consumable (112) comprises at least one substrate (116) and at least one analytical auxiliary means (118) connected to the substrate (116). At least one optically sensitive material (128) is applied to the substrate (116), said material being provided in order to make at least one optically detectable change in the event of exposure to an electromagnetic radiation (146). In at least one coding step, at least one functional piece of information (150) about the analytical consumable (112) is introduced into the optically sensitive material (128) by means of electromagnetic radiation (146). The functional piece of information (150) is provided in order to enable at least one analytical device to correctly use the analytical consumable (112).