Semiconductor Ion Sensor with Channels for Blood Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor devices for determining ion concentrations, especially in small sample volumes like a drop of blood, face challenges in accuracy and usability due to the need for complex setups and are not suitable for field monitoring, as they often require calibration and are not easily replaceable.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device with a semiconductor substrate and channels that connects a cavity and measurement electrode, allowing for controlled voltage application and current measurement to determine the relative concentration of ions, such as potassium to sodium, in a drop of liquid, enabling efficient fabrication and easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a complex sensor setup is used to determine ion concentration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is segmented into functionally independent modules: a disposable sensor cartridge containing the cavity and electrodes, and a reusable sensor unit with electronics. This segmentation allows the complex measurement setup to be contained in a replaceable cartridge, simplifying the overall system while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
A semiconductor substrate with channels is introduced as an intermediary between the liquid sample and the measurement electrode. The channels control ion transport and enable selective measurement of ion concentrations, achieving accurate determination while simplifying the electrode configuration.
2Ease of operation
If a disposable sensor design is used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into a disposable sensor cartridge and a reusable sensor unit. The cartridge can be efficiently manufactured using standard microfabrication techniques and then integrated with the durable sensor unit, balancing ease of replacement with manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor cartridge is designed as a disposable component that can be efficiently mass-produced using semiconductor fabrication processes. This allows for simple replacement by the end user while maintaining cost-effectiveness through automated manufacturing.
3Ease of operation
If a small sample volume is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The semiconductor substrate incorporates channels with controlled porosity and dimensions that enable efficient ion transport from the small liquid sample to the measurement electrode. The channel structure maximizes the interaction between the sample and sensor, maintaining measurement precision even with minimal sample volumes.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor utilizes the vertical dimension through channels extending through the semiconductor substrate, creating a three-dimensional ion transport path. This increases the effective measurement area within the limited sample volume, maintaining precision while requiring only small amounts of liquid.
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 solution allows for accurate determination of ion ratios in small samples with improved usability and ease of handling, making it suitable for field conditions and medical applications like monitoring potassium levels in blood.
Implementation Method 1
the semiconductor substrate with the plurality of channels efficiently restricts the number of ions reaching the measurement electrode
Implementation Method 2
determining a current or a change of the current flowing through the drop of liquid in response to the voltage applied
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device according to an embodiment includes a semiconductor substrate including a plurality of channels, the channels connecting a cavity and a measurement electrode, and a counter electrode arranged to be in contact with the cavity, wherein the cavity, the measurement electrode and the counter electrode are arranged to accommodate a drop of a liquid and to allow a voltage to be applied to the drop of liquid.