Sensor Array Reference Signal Segmentation for Low Sample Volume Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor array assemblies require substantial liquid sample volumes to detect analytes, which is inefficient and wasteful, especially in cases where sample volume is limited.
Innovation Solution
The system configures a sensor array with a first reference signal source positioned between analyte sensors and a second reference signal source downstream, allowing for calibration and reducing the sample volume required for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the reference signal source is placed downstream of the sensors in the fluidic path, then the sensors can be positioned before the reference source without contamination, but a substantial volume of liquid sample is required to traverse the entire path
Solution Approach 1:
The reference signal source is divided into two separate sources: a first reference signal source positioned between the analyte sensors and a second reference signal source positioned downstream. This segmentation allows different portions of the sample to be used for different measurement purposes, reducing the total sample volume required while preventing contamination of the sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The first reference signal source acts as an intermediary element positioned between the analyte sensors and the sample inlet. This intermediary reference source enables calibration and measurement functions that would otherwise require the sample to travel the entire length of the fluidic path, thereby reducing the sample volume needed.
2Loss of substance
If multiple tests are performed using small liquid samples, then sample volume waste is reduced, but the complexity of the sensor array assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array assembly is designed with multiple analyte sensors and two reference signal sources that can serve multiple testing functions simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows various tests to be performed using the same sample volume, reducing waste while the integrated design manages the complexity through shared components and pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensing functions are merged into a single integrated sensor array assembly. The analyte sensors and reference signal sources are combined in a compact configuration that allows simultaneous or sequential measurement of multiple analytes using the same small sample volume, reducing overall complexity compared to separate testing systems.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the reference electrode is placed at the last position of the sensor array, then contamination of the fluidic path is minimized, but the sample volume required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reference electrode function is segmented into two separate reference signal sources positioned at different locations in the fluidic path. The first reference source is positioned between the analyte sensors to enable calibration without requiring the sample to traverse the entire path, while the second reference source remains downstream to minimize contamination. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing both contamination prevention and reduced sample volume requirements.
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 enables accurate measurement of analytes in low sample volumes, reducing waste and improving efficiency, particularly in scenarios where sample volume is limited.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is a device that measures a physical quantity and converts the physical quantity into a signal which may be read by an observer or an instrument. The sensor may work in a physiochemical manner using a sensing medium such as light, electricity, piezoelectric, electrochemical, or the like.
Implementation Method 2
The sensing medium can be read by a transducer or detector element that transforms the signal from the sensor into another signal that may be more easily measured and quantified.
Data Source
AI summary
The inventive concepts disclosed herein are generally directed to the need to measure a microsample and obtain one or more measurement for one or more analyte in the microsample by configuring a sensor array having one or more first reference signal source interlaced with one or more analyte sensor positioned along the longitudinal axis the sensor body and a second reference signal source positioned downstream of the sensor body along a sample flow path.