Hydrophilic Sensor Bead for Real-Time Sweat Biomarker Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biometric sensors face challenges in efficiently collecting and analyzing bodily fluids, such as sweat, due to low sweat rates and delays in fluid delivery, which affect accuracy and real-time measurement capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A sensor design featuring a hydrophilic sensor bead exposed on the patch surface for direct contact with bodily fluids, combined with a diffusion limiting layer and embedded electrodes, allows for rapid molecular exchange and real-time biometric parameter measurement without the need for wicking, using amperometric or potentiometric methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sweat is collected and analyzed in a laboratory environment, then analysis accuracy can be maintained, but the time delay reduces measurement precision and sweat is no longer fresh
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wicking system with a direct contact sensor bead that measures biometric parameters in real-time as sweat contacts it, eliminating the time delay inherent in collection and laboratory analysis systems
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor bead performs the measurement function directly at the point of sweat production on the skin, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for external laboratory analysis, thereby maintaining both accuracy and real-time capability
2Quantity of substance
If a sensor patch wicks sweat from the skin to the sensor, then fluid delivery can be achieved, but sufficient fluid cannot be collected for accurate real-time results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the bulk patch material and concentrates it in a small sensor bead that directly contacts the skin, eliminating the need for wicking and requiring minimal fluid volume for accurate measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor bead provides a localized sensing area with high surface area to volume ratio that is optimally positioned for direct sweat contact, enabling accurate measurements with minimal fluid requirements compared to distributed wicking systems
3Productivity
If electronics are integrated in the sensor patch, then real-time processing can be achieved, but the patch cannot be used indefinitely and creates waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into a reusable base unit containing electronics and a disposable sensor patch, allowing the electronic components to be reused indefinitely while the sensor bead is replaced, thereby reducing waste while maintaining real-time processing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor bead is designed as a disposable component that is replaced after use, while the expensive electronic processing units remain in the reusable base unit, optimizing the balance between functionality and waste reduction
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 sensor provides accurate, real-time biometric data with minimal fluid requirements, extending its usability and reducing waste by separating the sensor patch from the base unit for reuse, thus enhancing sensitivity and durability.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor bead is hydrophilic and is configured to equilibrate with the bodily fluid by molecular or ionic exchange with the bodily fluid
Implementation Method 2
the sensor bead is hydrophilic and is configured to equilibrate with the bodily fluid by molecular or ionic exchange with the bodily fluid
Implementation Method 3
the sensor bead is coated with a diffusion limiting layer
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor for measuring a biometric parameter of a bodily fluid, the sensor comprising: a sensor body (20), at least one electrode extending in the sensor body, whereby an end of the at least one electrode is exposed at an end of the sensor body, a sensor bead (30) disposed at the end of the sensor body and in contact with the exposed end of the at least one electrode.