Sandwich Sensor Assembly for Low Sample Volume Multi-Analyte Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing devices require increased sample volumes with the number of analytes detected, which is undesirable for limited or expensive samples, such as in neonatal cases.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with a first and second planar substrate, where the dielectric layer defines a liquid flow path and sensing areas above electrical contacts, allowing for concurrent testing with reduced sample volume by arranging sensors in a sandwich configuration rather than coplanar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are arranged in a coplanar configuration to detect multiple analytes, then the number of detectable analytes increases, but the required sample volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a coplanar (2D) sensor arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration where sensing elements are positioned on opposite surfaces of a substrate. This vertical stacking allows multiple analytes to be detected simultaneously while maintaining a compact footprint, thereby reducing the sample volume required compared to coplanar arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple sensing elements are embedded within layers of dielectric material and conductive traces. Each sensing element is surrounded by insulating layers and electrical connections, creating a compact nested arrangement that maximizes the number of detectable analytes within a minimal sample volume.
2Productivity
If multiple sensors are integrated into a single assembly to enable concurrent testing, then testing efficiency increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing elements, dielectric layers, and conductive traces into a single integrated sensor assembly. All sensing elements share common structural components including the substrate, dielectric layers, and electrical connections, which reduces overall device complexity compared to separate sensor units while enabling concurrent testing of multiple analytes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional sensor assembly where a single device can detect multiple different analytes simultaneously. Each sensing element is designed to respond to specific analytes while sharing common structural and electrical infrastructure, thereby achieving high productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, the inventive concepts disclosed herein are directed to a sensor assembly which contains a first planar substrate and a second planar substrate which respectively support opposing sensor arrays and contains an integrated flow path extending between the first and second substrates.