Test Tape Positioning Using Integrated Analyte Detection Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analyte test systems require separate position detectors for precise tape positioning, which are costly and occupy additional construction space, and lack design flexibility.
Innovation Solution
Utilize the analyte detection optics to control tape advancement by determining the pre-determined distance between functional elements in recorded optical signals, eliminating the need for a separate positioning device and allowing compatibility with various tape designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate photometric positioning device is used to control tape advancement, then precise tape positioning is achieved, but device complexity and construction space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning function with the analyte detection optics. The same light source and detector used for measuring analyte concentrations are also used to detect functional elements on the tape and determine their positions. This integration eliminates the need for separate positioning devices, reducing device complexity while maintaining positioning precision through multi-functional use of the optical system
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring optics serve dual purposes: (1) detecting analyte concentrations in body fluid samples, and (2) detecting functional elements on the tape to control tape advancement. This multi-functionality allows a single optical system to perform both measurement and positioning tasks, eliminating redundant components and simplifying the overall device architecture
2Measurement precision
If a separate photometric positioning device is used, then tape positioning is achieved, but construction space and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning detection capability is merged into the existing analyte measurement optical path. The light source and detector are positioned to illuminate and detect both the functional elements on the tape and the analyte in the sample. This spatial integration eliminates the need for additional positioning components, reducing the construction space required in the device
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is designed to perform multiple functions within the same physical space: illuminating the tape to detect functional element positions, illuminating the sample to measure analyte concentrations, and processing both types of optical signals through the same detector. This multi-functional design maximizes space utilization and eliminates redundant spatial requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate positioning device is used, then positioning function is added, but design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is designed with universal detection capability that can identify various functional elements on the tape regardless of their specific design. The signal processing unit can interpret different optical signatures from different tape designs, allowing the same hardware to work with multiple tape configurations and maintaining design flexibility across different product variations
Solution Approach 2:
The system can adapt to different tape designs by adjusting detection parameters such as light wavelength, detection sensitivity, and signal processing thresholds. This parameter adaptability allows the same physical device to accommodate variations in tape functional element design without requiring hardware changes, thereby maintaining design flexibility
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
Achieves robust and exact tape positioning without additional components, ensuring compatibility and reducing complexity while maintaining precision.
Implementation Method 1
a measuring engine configured to receive optical signals from the at least one measuring spot for detection of the analyte in the body fluid
Implementation Method 2
the signal processor is operable to determine if a test field is in the measuring position, said determination comprising an identification of a pre-determined distance between at least two functional elements in the optical signals obtained while advancing the test tape
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns an analyte measuring system comprising a test tape (22) having a plurality of functional elements (20) including a test field (46), a further comprising a meter (12) having a tape drive (24) operable to advance the test tape (22), a light source (30) adapted to illuminate at least one measuring spot at a measuring position, and a measuring engine (32) to receive optical signals from the at least one measuring spot for detection of the analyte in the body fluid. For tape positioning, it is proposed that the measuring engine (32) comprises a signal processor (34) operable to determine if a test field (46) is in the measuring position, said determination comprising an identification of a pre-determined distance between at least two functional elements (20) in the optical signals obtained while advancing the test tape (22).