Analyte Sensor Electrical Connection Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current glucose sensors lack an automated test to ensure proper electrical connections between the sensor and electronics, risking faulty devices being used, which can lead to inaccurate readings or device failure.
Innovation Solution
A testing system for analyte sensors that includes unique electrical connections and a Device Level Tester (DLT) unit to detect and verify electrical connections between the sensor and printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) without exposing the sensor to a fluid, ensuring proper functionality and preventing faulty device delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated electrical connection testing is implemented, then device reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the Device Level Tester (DLT) unit directly into the sensor assembly, merging the testing functionality with the existing sensor structure. This consolidation allows automated electrical connection testing to be performed without requiring separate external testing equipment, thereby improving reliability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly performs self-testing through the integrated DLT unit, which automatically detects electrical connections between the sensor portion and PCBA contacts. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual connection verification or separate testing procedures, ensuring reliable operation while keeping the system design streamlined.
2Manufacturing precision
If electrical connection testing is performed without fluid exposure, then manufacturing precision is improved, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs electrical connection testing at the Device Level before the sensor is exposed to analyte fluid. The DLT unit verifies proper electrical connections between the sensor portion and PCBA contacts during assembly or pre-use, ensuring manufacturing precision is achieved. This preliminary testing prevents faulty connections from reaching the end user while the actual analyte measurement function remains intact for subsequent use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the testing function from the measurement function. The DLT unit handles electrical connection verification independently before the sensor begins its analyte measurement task. This segmentation allows connection testing to be performed in a controlled state without fluid exposure, while the measurement system remains ready for accurate analyte detection when deployed.
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 system effectively identifies and prevents faulty connections, ensuring reliable sensor operation by detecting electrical connections without fluid exposure, thus enhancing user safety and device reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The circuit is operable to detect electrical connection between the first plurality of contacts and the second plurality of contacts within the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An analyte sensor device includes a housing, a sensor, and a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) within the housing and including a circuit and a first plurality of contacts. The sensor includes a proximal end within the housing and a distal end outside of the housing. The proximal end includes a second plurality of contacts electrically connected to the first plurality of contacts on the PCBA. The distal end includes one or more electrodes configured to measure a concentration level of an analyte in a body of a user. The circuit is operable to detect electrical connection between the first plurality of contacts and the second plurality of contacts within the housing while the distal end of the sensor is outside the body of the user or a fluid.