Self-Powered Analyte Sensor Using Electrochemical Oxidation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analyte monitoring devices require external power sources to operate, which can be inconvenient and may not be suitable for continuous, long-term monitoring of glucose levels or other analytes in bodily fluids.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered analyte sensor system that generates signals through oxidation reactions and stores charge in a capacitor, allowing the sensor electronics to operate without a separate power source, using a buffering circuit and RFID circuit to communicate data when activated by a remote power source or magnetic field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external power sources are used to power the sensing circuitry, then the device can operate continuously and reliably, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system generates its own operating power through electrochemical reactions between the analyte in bodily fluids and the sensor electrodes. The analyte itself serves as the power source, eliminating the need for separate batteries or external power supplies. This self-powered approach reduces device complexity while maintaining continuous operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system performs multiple functions using the same electrochemical reactions: it both generates power for operation and measures analyte levels. The dual working electrodes serve as both the power generation interface and the sensing interface, combining power supply and measurement functions into a single integrated system.
2Loss of information
If external power sources are used to power the sensing circuitry, then the device can store measured values in memory, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system uses the analyte-driven electrochemical reactions to generate both the power needed for operation and the data to be stored. The same electrochemical process that produces the measurement signal also provides the electrical energy to power the memory and processing circuits, eliminating the need for separate power management components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the power generation function and the sensing function into a single electrochemical system. The working electrodes serve dual purposes: generating electrical power through oxidation reactions and producing the analytical signal for measurement. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed.
3Speed
If the sensor electronics remain continuously active to process and communicate data, then data communication is immediate, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor electronics operate in periodic cycles rather than continuously. The system accumulates charge from the electrochemical reactions over time, then uses this stored charge to power brief periods of active data processing and communication. This periodic operation reduces average energy consumption while maintaining timely data transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary charge accumulation during periods when the electronics are inactive. Electrical charge is stored in capacitors or other energy storage elements during low-power periods, preparing energy reserves that enable subsequent active processing and communication phases without requiring continuous power consumption.
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 continuous, battery-free monitoring of analyte levels, with the system remaining operational for extended periods without the need for external power, and allowing for sterilization without damaging components.
Implementation Method 1
the self-powered analyte sensor generates signals through oxidation reactions
Implementation Method 2
stores charge in a capacitor
Implementation Method 3
RFID circuit operatively coupled to the buffering circuit and configured to communicate data
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices and methods to monitoring analyte levels using a self-powered analyte sensor and associated sensor electronics are provided.