Controller for a continuous near infrared glucose sensor

Abstract

The design and development of a controller for a near infrared glucose sensor is described. The sensing technology involves the sampling of interstitial fluid in a microfabricated chamber and measurement of the absorbance of the fluid in a non-destructive and reagent free manner. The glucose levels are estimated based on the absorbance data. This new technology relies on the unique optical characteristics of glucose in a near infrared spectrum and will be used as the sensing technology in a feedback controlled insulin delivery system for the in situ treatment of diabetes. The sensor element will be implanted in the subcutaneous tissues of the human body and the controller will enable the operation of the sensor for months with minimal user intervention. First generation prototype of the controller has been developed and implemented. Currently, thorough testing of the first generation prototype system is in progress and work on a second generation prototype based on ZigBee wireless technology is underway. Copyright 2005 by ISA - The Instrumentation, Systems and Automation Society.