Sensor-Dispensing Instrument With Integrated Cartridge Advancement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor-dispensing instruments for determining analyte concentrations in body fluids are often cumbersome, difficult to operate, and have reliability issues, particularly when test sensors are stored separately from the instrument.
Innovation Solution
A sensor-dispensing instrument with a cap, cartridge, test-sensor receptacle, and sensor-advancement mechanism that allows for the automatic or manual advancement of test sensors, integrated with a lancing device, enabling easy access and use of test sensors within a single device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If test sensors are stored in the instrument, then all needed items are located within one device, but the instrument becomes larger and more difficult for the user to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument is divided into functional modules: a cartridge containing multiple test sensors, a sensor-advancement mechanism, and a testing mechanism. The cartridge can be easily removed and replaced, allowing users to access multiple sensors without handling the entire instrument. This segmentation reduces operational complexity while maintaining integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge containing multiple test sensors is nested within the instrument body. The test sensors are stored in a compact arrangement within the cartridge, which itself is housed in the instrument. This nested structure allows multiple components to coexist in a space-efficient manner, reducing overall size while maintaining functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If test sensors are stored in the instrument, then all needed items are located within one device, but selected components having reliability issues
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is designed as a separate, replaceable module that contains the test sensors. This segmentation isolates the sensors from the main instrument electronics, reducing interference and potential failure points. The cartridge can be easily replaced if issues arise, improving overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple test sensors are pre-loaded into the cartridge during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that sensors are properly positioned and protected before use, reducing the risk of handling damage and ensuring consistent performance. The pre-assembled cartridge can be quality-tested as a unit before deployment.
3Ease of operation
If a sensor-advancement mechanism is added to automatically advance test sensors, then user manipulation is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor-advancement mechanism is designed to automatically advance the next test sensor into position after each use, without requiring manual intervention. The mechanism self-activates through simple user actions such as closing the cap or pressing a button, reducing the complexity of operation while maintaining automated functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor-advancement mechanism replaces complex manual handling operations with a simplified automated system. Instead of requiring users to manually remove and replace sensors, the mechanism uses automated advancement triggered by simple cap closure or button press actions, reducing both operational complexity and mechanical complexity.
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 solution provides a user-friendly mechanism for determining analyte concentrations by simplifying the process of accessing and using test sensors, reducing user manipulation, and enhancing the reliability and convenience of the testing process.
Implementation Method 1
The fluid is drawn into a capillary channel that extends in the sensor from the testing end to the reagent material by capillary action
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor-dispensing instrument is adapted to determine an analyte concentration of a fluid and comprises a body, a cap, a cartridge, a test-sensor receptacle, and a sensor-advancement mechanism. The cap is adapted to move between an open position and a closed position. The cap and body are adapted to correspond with each other to form the closed position. The cartridge contains a plurality of test sensors. The cartridge is located substantially within the cap. The sensor-advancement mechanism is adapted to advance the plurality of test sensors, one at a time, to a position that allows a user to manually remove the test sensor and place the test sensor in the test-sensor receptacle. The sensor-dispensing instrument may also include a lancing device including a lancet.