3D PCB Antenna Layout for Reliable Analyte Monitor Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing in vivo analyte monitoring systems face challenges in maintaining reliable wireless transmission of analyte data from a sensor control device to a receiving device, particularly due to the need for improved radio frequency communication and antenna configurations to ensure consistent connectivity.

Innovation Solution

The system incorporates a printed circuit board with a Bluetooth low energy antenna supported by risers extending from its surface, a battery for power, and a processor for data processing, along with a connector to establish electrical connections, enhancing the transmission of analyte data through a specific antenna configuration that includes a cross-bar forming an h-shape or y-shape.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If wireless transmission is used to transmit analyte data from the sensor control device to the receiving device, then the usability and convenience of the analyte monitoring system is improved, but the reliability of the transmission signal may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveusabilityVSAvoidtransmission signal reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a planar antenna configuration to a three-dimensional antenna structure using risers. The antenna is positioned above the printed circuit board at a elevated height, creating a spatial separation that improves radio frequency communication reliability while maintaining the wireless transmission convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of moving object

If the sensor control device is made small in form-factor for comfort and convenience, then the comfort and ease of wear is improved, but the space available for reliable antenna configuration is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveform-factorVSAvoidwireless transmission reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the space constraint by moving the antenna configuration from the two-dimensional plane of the circuit board into the third dimension using risers. This vertical positioning allows the antenna to achieve optimal signal transmission characteristics within the limited volume of a compact sensor control device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the antenna structure into multiple components: the antenna element itself, the risers that provide vertical support and positioning, and the connection points on the circuit board. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall compactness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 configuration improves the reliability and efficiency of wireless data transmission from the sensor control device to the receiving device, ensuring consistent communication and reducing the need for manual data transfer, thereby enhancing user convenience and adherence to frequent monitoring.

Implementation Method 1

The transmission of analyte data from the sensor to the receiving device can be performed using wired or wireless transmission... Prior art systems, however, have placed an increased emphasis on wireless transmission performed using near field communication (NFC) and/or Bluetooth communication

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4213728B1System, apparatus, and devices for analyte monitoring
Publication Date: 2026.04.01 ABBOTT DIABETES CARE INC
  • EP4213728B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4213728B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP4213728B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

A system, apparatus, or device that includes an analyte sensor for monitoring analyte levels. The system, apparatus, or device can include a printed circuit board configured to monitor an analyte level, and a battery connected to the printed circuit board and configured to power the printed circuit board. The system, apparatus, or device can also include a connector connected to the printed circuit board and configured to establish an electrical connection between and analyte sensor and the printed circuit board, and a processor connected to the printed circuit board and configured to process data associated with the monitored analyte level. In addition, the system, apparatus, or device, can include an antenna for transmitting the monitored analyte level resting on a plurality of risers. The risers can extend from a surface of the printed circuit board by a fixed distance.