Test Meter Pressure Sensor for Undue Strip Force Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional analyte test strip meters face challenges in accurately detecting and correcting for biased readings caused by improper dosing techniques, such as applying undue pressure, which can lead to inaccurate results and health risks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing pressure sensors in the meter to detect and prevent undue pressure on the test strip during insertion, dosing, and measurement, thereby aborting the test if pressure thresholds are exceeded and allowing for correction techniques that simplify the primary measurement algorithm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If failsafe algorithms are designed to detect and correct faulty readings caused by various factors including undue pressure, then measurement reliability is improved, but algorithm complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent layers: pre-dose checks, post-dose checks, and failsafe algorithms. Each layer handles specific aspects of error detection, with the failsafe layer focusing specifically on pressure-related errors after simpler checks have been performed. This segmentation allows the failsafe algorithm to be more targeted and less complex while maintaining high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary checks (pre-dose and post-dose checks) before the failsafe algorithm executes. These preliminary checks handle obvious errors and simpler conditions, leaving the failsafe algorithm to handle more subtle pressure-related issues. This preliminary action reduces the burden on the failsafe algorithm, making it less complex while improving overall reliability.
2Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are added to detect undue pressure on the test strip, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure sensor is introduced as an intermediary device between the user's dosing action and the measurement system. The sensor detects pressure applied to the test strip and provides this information to the controller, which then determines whether the pressure is within acceptable ranges. This intermediary approach improves measurement accuracy by directly detecting pressure-related errors while keeping the overall system complexity manageable through modular integration.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive failsafe algorithms are designed to consider all possible error factors, then detection accuracy is improved, but the difficulty of designing and implementing the algorithm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The error detection system is divided into discrete, manageable modules: pre-dose checks for strip integrity, post-dose checks for dosing errors, and failsafe algorithms for pressure-related errors. This segmentation allows each module to be designed and tested independently, reducing the overall design difficulty while maintaining comprehensive coverage of error conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors specific parameters (pressure, temperature, humidity) that are most likely to cause measurement errors. By focusing on these key parameters rather than attempting to monitor all possible conditions, the failsafe algorithm achieves high detection accuracy without excessive design complexity. The controller adjusts its monitoring focus based on the specific error conditions being detected.
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
This solution reduces the complexity of failsafe algorithms, enhances the accuracy of test results, and adds a layer of protection against biased readings, thereby minimizing the risk of patients relying on erroneous test results.
Implementation Method 1
One or more pressure sensors are implemented in a strip meter to sense the pressure profile applied by a user on a test strip during insertion, during sample dosing, and during the measurement sequence
Data Source
AI summary
A test meter and method for detecting the presence and/or concentration of an analyte in a liquid biological sample. The meter includes an internal cavity receiving a test strip. A pressure sensor is arranged and configured to sense a pressure exerted by the inserted test strip relative to the meter housing. A controller receives signals corresponding to the sensed pressure, compares the signal to a pressure threshold value, and indicates when the sensed pressure exceeds the pressure threshold value. The method is for detecting the application of an undue pressure applied against a test strip relative to a meter, and includes receiving a test strip in a meter in a position adjacent a pressure sensor, using the sensor to sense the pressure applied by the inserted test strip relative to the meter, and comparing the sensed pressure to a predetermined threshold value.