Analyte Sensor Package With Microfluidic Cap For Onsite Fluid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing biological fluids require samples to be transported to laboratories for analysis, leading to inconvenience and increased costs due to the need for multiple visits and extended wait times for results.
Innovation Solution
A sensor package and system that includes a sensing chip with an array of conductive elements and dispense chemistry, coupled with a microfluidic cap, allowing for onsite analysis of fluid samples by detecting analytes through electrical signals generated by electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If samples are transported to laboratories for analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the analysis function into portable sensor units that can be distributed to multiple locations, eliminating the need to transport samples to a central laboratory. Each sensor package contains integrated components for sample handling, analysis, and data transmission, enabling decentralized testing while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
Wireless communication modules act as intermediaries between the portable sensors and remote servers, enabling data transmission without physical sample transport. This mediator system allows laboratory-quality analysis to occur at point-of-care locations while maintaining connection to centralized diagnostic infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If samples are transported to laboratories for analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor packages are designed for self-service operation where users can independently collect samples, insert them into the device, and receive results without requiring laboratory personnel. The system automatically handles sample processing, analysis, and result communication, making laboratory-quality testing as convenient as home use.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable sensors are designed to perform multiple functions including sample acceptance, preprocessing, analysis across multiple analytes, and wireless data transmission. This multi-functionality consolidates what previously required separate laboratory equipment and procedures into a single portable device that can be used by non-experts.
3Measurement precision
If multiple follow-up visits are required, then measurement precision is improved through comprehensive analysis, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous monitoring and repeated testing at the same location without requiring patients to return to the laboratory. Users can perform follow-up tests immediately at home or at remote sites, maintaining continuous diagnostic action rather than interrupting care with travel and waiting between visits.
4Measurement precision
If centralized laboratory analysis is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases from patient perspective
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor packages contain nested functional components where microfluidic channels, electrodes, and sample chambers are integrated within a single housing. This nested design consolidates complex laboratory equipment into a compact unit that appears and operates like a simple consumer device, hiding technical complexity within the integrated structure.
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
Enables fast and convenient onsite testing of fluid samples, reducing the need for laboratory analysis and minimizing follow-up visits, thereby improving accessibility and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one electrode may be configured to sense an analyte in the fluid sample
Implementation Method 2
The at least one electrode may be coupled to the at least one contact pad via a conductive adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor package, a sensor system, and a method for fabricating the sensor package are described that include a sensing chip having dispense chemistry disposed over an array of conductive elements. In an implementation, the sensor package may include a sensing chip that may include at least one conductive element, wherein the at least one conductive element may be part of an array of conductive elements defining a M by N matrix, where M is a number of rows of the at least one conductive element and N is a number of columns of the at least one conductive element. The sensing chip may further include dispense chemistry that may be disposed on the at least one conductive element and at least one contact pad. The sensor package may further include a microfluidic cap that may be positioned over at least a portion of the sensing chip, wherein the microfluidic cap and the sensing chip may define a cavity that may be configured to receive a fluid sample. The microfluidic cap may further include at least one electrode that may be configured to sense an analyte in the fluid sample. The at least one electrode may be coupled to the at lease one contact pad of the sensing chip via a conductive adhesive.