Disposable Sensor Probe With Biofuel Cell for Easy Medical Disposal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical devices with integrated sensors for physiological parameter measurement are complex, costly, and difficult to handle and dispose of, with inaccurate data and environmental concerns due to the use of various metals and materials.
Innovation Solution
A disposable medical device assembly featuring a probe with a biofuel cell as the energy source, made from biodegradable and compostable materials, including a biofuel cell that uses biological catalysts to convert natural substrates into electricity, allowing for simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly measurement of physiological parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are integrated into catheters and probes for measuring physiological parameters, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the disposable principle by designing a single-use probe that is discarded after one use. This eliminates the need for complex reusable structures with multiple components, while still providing accurate physiological measurements. The disposable nature simplifies the device structure compared to reusable alternatives that require retention elements, multiple sensors, and complex assembly.
2Measurement precision
If sensors and multiple materials are incorporated into catheters for diagnostic functionality, then measurement capability is improved, but ease of disposal and environmental friendliness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by using a uniform biodegradable polymer material for the entire probe structure, including the sensor integration layer. This single-material construction eliminates the need to sort and handle multiple different materials (metals, plastics, coatings) separately, making disposal straightforward and environmentally friendly while maintaining measurement functionality.
3Productivity
If reusable catheters with sensors are used, then cost efficiency is improved, but time consumption for cleaning, sterilization, inspection and recalibration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the disposable principle to eliminate all post-use processing steps. The probe is designed for single use only, requiring no cleaning, sterilization, inspection, or recalibration. This saves significant time and labor costs compared to reusable alternatives, while the low cost of the disposable unit maintains overall cost efficiency.
4Reliability
If traditional energy sources are used in medical devices, then power supply reliability is improved, but environmental impact and disposal difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from non-biodegradable battery materials to biodegradable polymer-based energy storage. The biodegradable polymer electrolyte and electrode materials provide sufficient power for the measurement mission while automatically degrading after use, eliminating environmental contamination concerns associated with traditional batteries.
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 reliable and accurate physiological data while simplifying handling and disposal, reducing environmental impact and production costs, as the entire device can be used once and discarded without the need for reprocessing or recycling.
Implementation Method 1
an energy source connected to said at least one sensor; wherein said energy source is a biofuel cell
Implementation Method 2
a biofuel cell that uses biological catalysts to convert natural substrates into electricity
Implementation Method 3
a biofuel cell, and preferably a biodegradable and/or compostable biofuel cell
Implementation Method 4
a biofuel cell, and preferably a biodegradable and/or compostable biofuel cell
Data Source
AI summary
A disposable medical device assembly for measuring a physiological parameter in a urinary or gastrointestinal tract of a mammal being is disclosed, comprising a probe, such as a catheter, for insertion into a bodily opening of the mammal being. The probe comprises at least one sensor, such as a pressure sensor. The medical device further comprises an energy source, in the form of a biofuel cell, connected to the at least one sensor.