Sensor Device Segmentation for IVD Analyzer In-Use Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) analyzers face limitations in extending the in-use time of sensor devices, leading to frequent replacements and increased downtime due to interference between sensory elements and the need for multiple sample collections, especially with limited sample volumes.
Innovation Solution
The sensor device comprises at least two fluidic conduits with different sensory elements, allowing for optimized temperature operation and separation based on susceptibility to deterioration, measuring principles, and interference, enabling extended in-use time and reliable parameter determination from a single small sample without reducing the number of measurable parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensory elements are arranged in a single fluidic conduit, then the number of measurable parameters increases, but interference between sensory elements occurs and in-use time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device divides multiple sensory elements into separate fluidic conduits instead of placing them in a single conduit. Each fluidic conduit contains one or more sensory elements that are isolated from others, preventing interference while maintaining the ability to measure multiple parameters simultaneously. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by spatially separating sensory elements.
2Device complexity
If a single fluidic conduit is used for all sensory elements, then device complexity is reduced, but all sensory elements are exposed to all fluids causing deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multiple fluidic conduits to segment the fluid flow paths for different sensory elements. This allows selective exposure of sensory elements to specific fluids (sample, QC sample, calibrator, stand-by solution, cleaning solution), preventing unnecessary deterioration and extending in-use time, while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular conduit design.
3Quantity of substance
If sensory elements are placed close together to minimize sample volume requirements, then handling of small sample volumes is improved, but interference between sensory elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
By placing sensory elements in separate fluidic conduits, the patent achieves spatial separation that eliminates interference between elements while still allowing compact overall device design. Each conduit can be optimized for its specific sensory element, and the conduits can be arranged closely in three-dimensional space without causing interference.
4Productivity
If the same sensor device is used for as many measurements as possible, then productivity increases, but frequent replacement is required leading to increased downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments sensory elements into separate fluidic conduits, allowing independent monitoring and replacement of individual conduits or selective extension of in-use time for the entire device. This reduces the frequency of complete sensor device replacements, minimizing downtime and maintaining high productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure refers to a sensor device, a method of operating the sensor device and an IVD analyzer for receiving the sensor device for determining chemical and/or physical characteristics of a fluid. The sensor device comprises at least two fluidic conduits for repeatedly receiving fluids, each fluidic conduit comprising at least one sensory element arranged such as to come in contact with a fluid in the respective fluidic conduit. In particular, the fluidic conduits comprise different sensory elements, respectively, wherein the sensory elements are separated in the respective fluidic conduits according to compatibility or susceptibility to deterioration or operating temperature. Alternately, the fluidic conduits comprise at least in part the same sensory elements, wherein the sensor device is operated in a primary operating mode and in response to a trigger event, switches to an extended operating mode.