Test Strip Electrode System for Rapid Biological ORP Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) in biological samples, such as blood and plasma, are cumbersome, require large sample volumes, and are not suitable for rapid, routine clinical diagnostic testing, leading to unreliable and time-consuming assessments of oxidative status.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a test strip with electrodes and a readout device that measures static and capacity oxidation-reduction potential (sORP and cORP) of fluid samples, allowing for convenient and timely evaluation of ORP characteristics using a small sample volume, suitable for clinical diagnostics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional electrochemical devices are used to measure ORP, then measurement capability is achieved, but device complexity and sample volume requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement system into discrete test strips, each containing multiple specialized electrodes (working electrode, reference electrode, counter electrode) segmented and positioned on a substrate. This segmentation allows complex multi-electrode functionality to be distributed across simple, disposable test strips rather than requiring a complex integrated device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable test strips with pre-configured electrode arrays that are discarded after a single use. This eliminates the need for cleaning and maintenance of complex electrodes, reducing device complexity and operational burden while maintaining measurement capability. The test strips are inexpensive and designed for single-use clinical testing.
2Measurement precision
If conventional electrochemical devices are used to measure ORP, then measurement capability is achieved, but measurement time and operational convenience worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The test strips are pre-prepared with electrodes in optimal positions and configurations before use. The electrode surfaces are pre-treated and the chemical environment is pre-established, so that when the sample is applied, measurement can begin immediately without requiring long equilibrium periods for electrode stabilization or system preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs measurement protocols that rapidly proceed through the equilibrium phase by applying controlled potentials and measuring current responses in a time-efficient sequence. The system skips unnecessary waiting periods by using pulsed measurement techniques and automated readout that quickly captures the ORP value once initial contact is made.
3Measurement precision
If conventional electrochemical devices are used to measure ORP, then measurement capability is achieved, but ease of operation and clinical suitability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The test strips are designed to be self-contained and self-explaining, with built-in instructions, automatic sample volume requirements, and integrated reference electrodes that eliminate the need for operator calibration or complex setup procedures. The system performs its own measurements and provides direct readout, requiring minimal operator intervention or expertise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual electrode handling, cleaning, and positioning operations with automated electronic measurement systems that read results directly from the test strip electrodes. The readout device automatically processes the electrical signals from the electrodes and displays the ORP value, eliminating mechanical manipulation steps.
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 rapid, reliable, and efficient measurement of ORP in biological samples, facilitating timely clinical decisions and improving the assessment of oxidative stress in patients.
Implementation Method 1
An oxidation-reduction system, or redox system, involves the transfer of electrons from a reductant to an oxidant
Implementation Method 2
The oxidation/reduction potential can be measured electrochemically
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for measuring and using the oxidation-reduction characteristics of a biological sample are provided. The system generally includes a test strip and a readout device. A fluid sample is placed in the test strip, and the test strip is in turn operatively connected to the readout device. The readout device provides a controlled current that is sent across the fluid in the sample chamber. In addition, the readout device identifies an inflection point or transition time at which the voltage between contacts of the test strip is changing at the highest rate. The oxidation-reduction capacity of the sample is taken as the integral of the current profile from the time at which current begins to be supplied to the sample to the identified transition time.