Importance

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Abstract

A device for the non-invasive determination of blood glucose of a patient. This glucose monitor is based upon the effect of glucose in rotating polarized infra-red light. More specifically, two orthogonal and equal polarized states of infra-red light of minimal absorption are passed through a tissue containing blood, and an accurate determination of change in signal intensity is made due to the angle of rotation of these states. This rotation depends upon the glucose level. In order to compensate for absorption in the tissue, another two orthogonal and equal polarized states of infra-red light are used, with the wavelength being selected to maximize absorption. At least two embodiments of forming the polarized states are described: an electro-optic switching unit, such as a lithium tantalate crystal with appropriately applied orthogonal voltages; and an infra-red beam splitter using two light sources. The device can be applied to a patient, for example, to monitor glucose levels and provide signals to an insulin pump so as to be an artificial pancreas.

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First Claim