Sticky Probe Stabilization for Analyte Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing non-invasive physiological parameter measurement techniques face challenges in minimizing motion artifacts between the probe and the subject, leading to measurement errors, despite the use of complex algorithms and pressure distribution methods.

Innovation Solution

A probe design incorporating sticky materials and pressure devices to maintain the relative position between the probe and the subject, with features like occlude-release cycles to restrict blood flow and reduce motion artifacts, while using radiation sources and detectors for analyte measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If pressure is applied to the object to maintain probe position, then probe stability is improved, but measurement errors increase due to pressure distribution effects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprobe stabilityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive layer is applied locally at the interface between the probe and the object (finger), providing targeted stabilization exactly where needed rather than applying pressure across the entire measurement area. This localized approach maintains probe position without introducing pressure distribution errors into the measurement zone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

An adhesive layer is introduced as an intermediary substance between the probe and the object to achieve stable positioning. This adhesive mediator creates strong bonding without requiring mechanical pressure, thereby eliminating the harmful effect of pressure distribution on measurement accuracy while maintaining probe stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If complex algorithms are applied to reduce motion artifacts, then measurement reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement reliabilityVSAvoidalgorithm complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive layer is applied in advance to the probe or object surface before measurement begins. This preliminary action of bonding the probe to the object prevents motion artifacts from occurring in the first place, eliminating the need for complex post-processing algorithms to correct motion-related errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical adhesive bonding system replaces the need for complex computational algorithms. Instead of using sophisticated software to correct motion artifacts after they occur, the invention uses a simple mechanical adhesive layer to prevent relative motion between probe and object, thereby eliminating motion artifacts at their source.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If the probe is made movable to improve comfort, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to relative motion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprobe comfortVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive layer acts as a flexible thin film that accommodates the natural movements and comfort requirements of the subject while maintaining the probe's positional stability. The flexible adhesive bonding allows the probe to remain secure without creating uncomfortable rigid constraints on the object.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 significantly reduces motion artifacts, enhances measurement reliability, and improves accuracy by ensuring stable contact between the probe and the subject, thereby minimizing errors and increasing comfort during physiological parameter measurement.

Implementation Method 1

Each analyte responds differently to different wavelengths. Analyses of absorption, scattering, transmission or reflection of different wavelengths by blood, interstitial fluids, tissue

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption (EM radiation): Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

Analyses of absorption, scattering, transmission or reflection of different wavelengths by blood, interstitial fluids, tissue

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScattering: Scattering

Implementation Method 3

Both the probe and the object should be stable and maintain their relative position in the course of the measurement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 4

EP 313 238 discloses a pulse oximeter comprising a multi-layer finger wrap with an adhesive layer to secure the wrap about the finger

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP2131738B1A method and apparatus for enhancement and quality improvement of analyte measurement signals
Publication Date: 2013.11.06 ORSENSE LTD
  • EP2131738B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP2131738B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2C
  • EP2131738B1 patent drawingFigure 2D~3

AI summary

While measuring analytes in an object, movements between the object and a device that is taking the measurement may adversely effect the accuracy of the measurements. A probe that engages an object includes a sticky surface that comes into contact with the object to alleviate the relative movement between the probe and the object. The sticky substance can be applied in a variety of manners and embodiments and in general, helps to reduce the relative movement. In addition, the probe may include the ability to apply pressure to the object. The pressure can range from a slight pressure to help reduce relative movement to a pressure that exceeds systolic pressure, thereby constricting the flow of blood through the object.