Spring-Biased Sensor Port Cover for Analyte Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Analyte monitoring devices are prone to contamination through their sensor ports, which can interfere with accurate readings and foul analyte results.
Innovation Solution
A self-closing port cover mechanism that can be rotated about a pivot point to open and lock in position, preventing movement except for sensor access, thereby minimizing contamination by sealing the sensor port.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the sensor port is left open for sensor insertion and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
A cover is provided that can be positioned over the sensor port to close it before sensor insertion. The cover is spring-biased to automatically return to the closed position after use, and includes a locking mechanism that engages when the sensor is properly inserted. This preliminary closing action prevents contamination while maintaining ease of sensor access.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover acts as an intermediary element between the external environment and the sensor port interior. It provides a physical barrier that prevents contaminants from entering the port while still allowing sensor insertion and removal through its opening mechanism. The cover mediates between the need for port access and the need for contamination prevention.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a cover is added to seal the sensor port, then contamination prevention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is spring-biased to automatically return to its closed position after being opened for sensor insertion. The spring mechanism provides self-service by eliminating the need for manual closing operations, reducing user burden while maintaining simple overall device structure. The cover essentially services itself by returning to protective position without user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
A locking mechanism is provided that engages automatically when the sensor is inserted, replacing the need for complex manual locking procedures. The locking mechanism uses simple mechanical engagement features that align and secure when the sensor is properly positioned, substituting potential complexity with straightforward mechanical action.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the cover is made secure to prevent movement, then contamination prevention is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed with dynamic characteristics - it is spring-biased to automatically return to closed position after opening, and includes a locking mechanism that engages only when needed during sensor insertion. This dynamic behavior allows the cover to transition between secure closed state and accessible open state, preventing contamination while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover's state changes from closed to open and back to closed during sensor insertion. The spring bias provides continuous force to return the cover to its original closed position, effectively using parameter change (position state) to balance sealing effectiveness with operational ease. The cover parameters (position, force state) dynamically adjust to meet both contradictory requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for covering an opening in an analyte meter are provided. Also provided are methods of determining analyte concentration.