Method for selectively combining multiple membranes for assembly into test strips

Abstract

A method for selectively combining multiple membranes for assembly into test strips (such as visual blood glucose test strips with side-by-side membranes). The method includes first measuring a plurality of color parameters (e.g., L*, a* and b*color parameters) associated with membrane samples from at least two membrane lots. Next, response characteristics (e.g., blood glucose response levels) are simulated for a speculative test strip that includes, for purposes of the simulation, combined multiple membranes tentatively selected from the at least two membrane lots. The simulated response characteristics are based on the measured plurality of color parameters of the tentative selection of combined multiple membranes. Optionally, the simulated response characteristics can also be based on simulated color parameters of the tentative selection of combined multiple membranes. Subsequently, assembly of the at least two membrane lots into a test strip with combined membranes is contingent on acceptable simulated response characteristics. Any suitable color parameters can be employed. The method can be used to selectively combine two or more membranes based on any number of color parameters. The assembled test strips can be used to measure glucose, cholesterol, proteins, ketones, phenylalanine or enzymes in blood, urine, saliva or other biological fluid, as well as sample fluid characteristics (e.g., pH and alkalinity).