RFID Sensor Initializing Element Refreshes Analyte Saturation
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Solution Overview
Problem
RFID-based analyte sensors face accuracy degradation due to sensing material saturation, which requires a method to refresh or initialize the sensing material.
Innovation Solution
An RFID-based analyte sensor incorporating an antenna, energy storage device, and initializing element, where the energy storage device powers the initializing element to reduce the analyte content of the sensing material, either through heating, light, or ultrasonic energy, thereby refreshing the sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sensing material is used continuously for analyte detection, then the sensor can maintain operational readiness, but the sensing material becomes saturated and accuracy degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing an initializing element that proactively removes saturated analyte from the sensing material before it completely degrades sensor performance. The energy storage device stores energy in advance and releases it to activate the initializing element, enabling preventive maintenance of the sensing material and maintaining sensor accuracy over extended periods.
2Reliability
If an initializing element is added to refresh the sensing material, then sensor accuracy is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the energy storage device to serve multiple functions: it stores energy from the antenna during normal operation and subsequently releases this stored energy to power the initializing element. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate power sources, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to refresh the sensing material.
3Reliability
If energy is stored and discharged to power the initializing element, then the sensing material can be refreshed, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by having the antenna itself charge the energy storage device during its normal operational cycle, rather than requiring an external power source. The system uses its own operational energy to fund the initialization process, making the energy consumption sustainable and eliminating the need for external energy input.
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 solution effectively reduces analyte content in the sensing material, maintaining sensor accuracy and readiness for subsequent analyte detection by rejuvenating the sensing material, thus extending the sensor's operational lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna adapted to receive energy from an RF field and produce a signal
Implementation Method 2
An energy storage device is also electrically connected to the antenna and is adapted to receive and store energy from the antenna and selectively discharge the stored energy
Implementation Method 3
When the initializing element is energized, it operates to reduce the analyte content of at least a portion of the sensing material
Implementation Method 4
The initializing element is operated to treat a portion of the analyte sensor, thereby reducing the analyte content thereof
Data Source
AI summary
An RFID-based analyte sensor is provided with an antenna adapted to receive energy from an RF field and produce a signal. A sensing material is electrically connected to the antenna and has an electrical property which varies in the presence of an analyte. An energy storage device is also electrically connected to the antenna and is adapted to receive and store energy from the antenna and selectively discharge the stored energy. An initializing element is electrically connected to the energy storage device and is energized by the stored energy discharged by the energy storage device. When the initializing element is energized, it operates to reduce the analyte content of at least a portion of the sensing material, effectively initializing the sensing material.