Transcutaneous Glucose Sensor With Interstitial Fluid Electrode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for monitoring blood glucose levels in diabetes patients are invasive, uncomfortable, and infrequent, leading to delayed detection of hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic conditions, which can result in dangerous side effects due to the lack of timely and continuous glucose monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A transcutaneous analyte sensor system comprising a sensor inserted into the host's tissue, a housing for external placement, and an electronics unit with a key configuration for secure connection, allowing for continuous glucose monitoring and data transmission to a receiver, which processes and displays calibrated data, and can render the sensor operative or inoperative based on predetermined conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional finger pricking methods are used for glucose monitoring, then the measurement can be obtained, but the comfort and convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical finger pricking system with a transcutaneous sensor system that uses electrochemical sensing. The sensor inserts a needle through the skin to place an electrode in contact with interstitial fluid, eliminating the need for repeated finger pricks while maintaining measurement capability through continuous monitoring of glucose levels in the interstitial fluid.
2Productivity
If finger pricking methods are used, then glucose measurement is possible, but the frequency of monitoring deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous monitoring by placing an electrode in direct contact with interstitial fluid through transcutaneous insertion. The sensor continuously measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, providing uninterrupted data flow to the receiver, which displays real-time glucose trends without requiring repeated user actions.
3Reliability
If continuous monitoring is implemented, then timely detection of glycemic conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring system into distinct functional modules: a transcutaneous sensor unit with needle and electrode for interstitial fluid access, an electronics unit for signal processing, and a separate receiver for data display. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while reducing overall system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses interstitial fluid as an intermediary medium between the blood glucose system and the sensor electrode. Instead of directly measuring blood glucose through invasive pricks, the sensor measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, which equilibrates with blood glucose levels, providing indirect but accurate continuous monitoring data.
4Productivity
If transcutaneous sensor insertion is used, then continuous monitoring is achieved, but the risk of tissue damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin needle for transcutaneous insertion that minimizes tissue disruption. The needle delivers the electrode through the skin with minimal trauma, and the small size of the insertion point reduces the risk of infection and tissue damage while maintaining continuous access to interstitial fluid for glucose monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for transcutaneous measurement of glucose in a host.