|Publication number||US6883364 B2|
|Application number||US 10/652,980|
|Publication date||26 Apr 2005|
|Filing date||28 Aug 2003|
|Priority date||20 Mar 1998|
|Also published as||US6085576, US6234006, US6418783, US6658915, US20010039824, US20020124631, US20040069046|
|Publication number||10652980, 652980, US 6883364 B2, US 6883364B2, US-B2-6883364, US6883364 B2, US6883364B2|
|Inventors||Steven A. Sunshine, M. Gregory Steinthal, Christopher K. Boehr, Robert K. Nakayama|
|Original Assignee||Smiths Detection-Pasadena, Inc.|
|Export Citation||BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan|
|Patent Citations (56), Referenced by (40), Classifications (6), Legal Events (2)|
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet|
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/099,405 filed Mar. 15, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,658,915 which is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/796,877, filed Feb. 28, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,418,783, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/548,948, filed Apr. 13, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,234,006, issued May 22, 2001, which is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/271,873, filed Mar. 18, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,085,576, issued Jul. 11, 2000, which application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/178,443, filed Oct. 23, 1998, now abandoned which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/045,237, filed Mar. 20, 1998 now abandoned. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/271,873 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/141,847, filed Aug. 27, 1998 now abandoned. U.S. application Ser. No. 09/271,873 further claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/122,688, entitled “Electronic-Nose Device,” filed Mar. 3, 1999. All of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
The present invention relates to the detection and identification of analytes using a portable sensing apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to a portable handheld electronic nose (e-nose) device.
An electronic nose is an instrument used to detect vapors or chemical analytes in gases, solutions, and solids. In certain instances, the electronic nose is used to simulate a mammalian olfactory system. In general, an electronic nose is a system having an array of sensors that are used in conjunction with pattern-recognition algorithms. Using the combination of chemical sensors, which produce a fingerprint of the vapor or gas, the recognition algorithms can identify and/or quantify the analytes of interest. The electronic nose is thus capable of recognizing unknown chemical analytes, odors, and vapors.
In practice, an electronic nose is presented with a substance such as an odor or vapor, and the sensor converts the input of the substance into a response, such as an electrical response. The response is then compared to known responses that have been stored previously. By comparing the unique chemical signature of an unknown substance to “signatures” of known substances, the unknown analyte can be determined. A variety of sensors can be used in electronic noses that respond to various classes of gases and odors.
A wide variety of commercial applications are available for electronic noses including, but not limited to, environmental toxicology and remediation, biomedicine, such as microorganism classification or detection, material quality control, food and agricultural products monitoring, heavy industrial manufacturing, ambient air monitoring, worker protection, emissions control, and product quality testing. Many of these applications require a portable device because they are located in the field or because they have an inaccessible location for larger laboratory models. Conventionally, most of the electronic noses have been large cumbersome laboratory models incapable of being used in the field and pilot plant applications. If available, a portable or handheld device would provide the portability required for pilot plant and field locations. Unfortunately, the portable chemical detectors that have been developed thus far have many limitations that have kept them from being widely accepted.
For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 5,356,594, which issued to Neel et al., discloses a portable volatile organic monitoring system designed for use in detecting fugitive emissions. The device includes a bar code reader for inventorying the emission site. The device contains a single sensor responsive to ionized gas, however the device only detects the amount (i.e., concentration) of the volatile compound. The device is incapable of identifying the volatile organic compound. Thus, the device is merely a vapor amount logger and not a portable electronic nose. As such, the user is required to know the identity of the vapor being quantitated or this information must be stored elsewhere.
Another example of a portable device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,818,348 issued to Stetter. Although this portable device is more sophisticated than the previous example, it still has many limitations. In this instance, the device is capable of identifying a gas or vapor, but the applications are quite limited because of sensor architectural limitations. The sensors making up the array are permanently fixed, and thus, the number and variety of analytes and gases that the device is capable of identifying is quite small. Moreover, because the analyte or vapor being identified interacts with each sensor of the array in a different amount, the reproducibility and stability of the device is quite limited. These limitations effect the device's accuracy in identifying unknowns.
In view of the foregoing, there remains a need in the art for an electronic nose that is portable and, in certain instances, handheld. Moreover, a device is needed that is useful in a broad variety of applications and can respond accurately to a broad variety of gases, analytes, and fluids. A vapor-sensing device is needed that is very versatile, stable, and meets the needs of a wide range of industries and users. The present invention fulfills these and other needs.
The invention relates generally to a sensing apparatus (also referred to as an electronic-nose or e-nose device). The apparatus is compact and, in certain embodiments, configured to be a handheld device. The e-nose device can be used to measure or identify one or more analytes in a medium such as vapor, liquid, gas, solid, and others. Some embodiments of the e-nose device includes at least two sensors (i.e., an array of sensors) and, in some other embodiments, about two to about 200 sensors in an array and preferably about four to about 50 sensors in the array.
The e-nose device is versatile and meets the needs of a wide range of applications in various industries. In certain embodiments, the device is designed as a slim handheld, portable device with various functionalities. In another embodiments, the device is designed as a portable field tool with full functionality. The e-nose device typically includes an internal processor for processing samples and reporting data Optionally, the device can be coupled to a computer, such as a personal computer, for access to set-up and advanced features and for transfer of data files.
In some embodiments, sections of the e-nose device are disposed within modules that can be installed, swapped, and replaced as necessary. For example, the sensor module, sampling wand or nose, battery pack, filter, electronics, and other components, can be modularized, as described below. This modular design increases utility, enhances performance, reduces cost, and provides additional flexibility and other benefits.
A specific embodiment of the invention provides a handheld sensing apparatus that includes a housing, a sensor module, a sample chamber, and an analyzer. The sensor module and the analyzer mount in the housing. The sensor module includes at least two sensors that provide a distinct response to a particular test sample. The sample chamber is defined by the housing or the sensor module, or both, and incorporates an inlet port and an outlet port. The sensors are located within or adjacent to the sample chamber. The analyzer is configured to analyze a particular response from the sensors and to identify or quantify, based on the particular response, analytes within the test sample.
In a variation of the above embodiment, the housing of the handheld sensing apparatus includes a receptacle, and the sensor module is removably mounted in the receptacle of the housing. In this embodiment, the sensor module can include one or more sensors.
Another specific embodiment of the invention provides a sensor module configured for use with a sensing apparatus. The sensor module is disposed within a housing that defines a receptacle. The sensor module includes a casing, a sample chamber, an inlet port, an outlet port, at least two sensors, and an electrical connector. The casing is sized and configured to be received in the receptacle of the sensing apparatus. The inlet port is configured to be releasably engageable with a port connection of the sensing apparatus when the sensor module is received in the receptacle. The inlet port receives a test sample from the sensing apparatus and directs the test sample to the sample chamber. The outlet port is configured to discharge the test sample from the sample chamber. The sensors are located within or adjacent to the sample chamber and are configured to provide a distinct response when exposed to one or more analytes located within the sample chamber. The electrical connector is configured to be releasably engageable with a mating electrical connector of the sensing apparatus when the sensor module is received in the receptacle. The electrical connector transmits the characteristic signals from the sensors to the sensing apparatus.
Yet another specific embodiment of the invention provides a handheld sensing apparatus for measuring the concentration of one or more analytes within a sample chamber. The sensing apparatus includes two or more chemically sensitive resistors, conditioning circuitry, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and an analyzer. Each chemically sensitive resistor has a resistance that varies according to a concentration of one or more analytes within the sample chamber. The conditioning circuitry couples to the chemically sensitive resistors and generates an analog signal indicative of the resistance of the resistors. The ADC couples to the conditioning circuitry and provides a digital signal in response to the analog signal. The analyzer couples to the ADC and determines, based on the digital signal, the identity or concentration of the analyte(s) within the sample chamber.
Yet another embodiment of the invention provides a portable, handheld vapor sensing apparatus that includes a sensor module incorporating a plug-in array of vapor sensors that provide different electrical responses to one or more distinct vapors. The apparatus includes a handheld housing, and the sensor module optionally can be removably mounted in a receptacle formed in the housing. The sensor module defines a sample chamber to which the array of vapor sensors is exposed. The sample chamber incorporates a vapor inlet and a vapor outlet, and a pump is mounted within the housing for directing a vapor sample from the vapor inlet through the sample chamber to the vapor outlet. A monitoring device also is mounted within the housing, for monitoring the electrical responses of the array of vapor sensors and for producing a corresponding plurality of sensor signals. In addition, an analyzer is mounted within the housing for analyzing the plurality of sensor signals and to identify any vapor sample directed through the sample chamber by the pump.
In more detailed features of the invention, the handheld vapor sensing apparatus further includes a controller or processor configured to control the pump either to direct one of a plurality of reference vapors or an unknown vapor sample through the sample chamber. When the controller is controlling the pump to direct one of the plurality of reference vapors through the sample chamber, the monitoring device monitors the electrical responses of the array of vapor sensors to produce a reference signature. Thereafter, when the controller is controlling the pump to direct the unknown vapor sample through the sample chamber, the monitoring device monitors the electrical responses of the array of vapor sensors to produce a vapor sample signature. The analyzer then compares the vapor sample signature with a plurality of reference signatures, to identify the unknown vapor sample.
In other more detailed features of the invention, the sample chamber of the handheld vapor sensing apparatus is defined by the sensor module, alone, and it is sealed from the external environment except for the vapor inlet and the vapor outlet. In addition, each sensor module includes a plurality of first electrical connectors and a plurality of devices of substantially identical size and shape, the devices together carrying the array of vapor sensors and each including a second electrical connector along one edge thereof, for mating engagement with one of the first electrical connectors.
In yet further more detailed features of the invention, the handheld vapor sensing apparatus further includes an electrical circuit that controls the temperature of the array of vapor sensors. In addition, when the sensor module is configured to be removably mounted in the housing receptacle, the module carries an identifier for identifying the vapor sensors it carries, and the monitor further is configured to read the identifier carried by the sensor module received in the receptacle.
In an embodiment, the sensors are implemented with chemically sensitive resistors having resistances that vary according to the concentration of one or more prescribed vapors within the sample chamber. These chemically sensitive resistors are each connected in series with a separate reference resistor, between a reference voltage and ground, such that an analog signal is established for each chemically sensitive resistor. An analog-to-digital converter is responsive to these analog signals and to the reference voltage, to produce digital output signals indicative of the resistances of the various chemically sensitive resistors. A multiplexer can be included for sequentially connecting the various analog output signals to the analog-to-digital converter. In addition, an analyzer is responsive to the digital output signals, to determine the presence and/or concentration of one or more prescribed vapors within the sample chamber.
Other features and advantages of the present invention should become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.
FIGS. 3A-1-3A-7 show six perspective views of an embodiment of another e-nose device.
A tubular sampling wand 130 a and an exhaust port 134 are provided to respectively receive and discharge samples to be analyzed. The sampling wand is also referred to as a nose or snout. A plug-in sensor module 150 a is shown installed in its socket located at the base of e-nose device 100 a. The operation of sensor module 150 a is described in detail below. An electrical connector 126 located at the lower end of housing 110 a allows for communication with a host computer, and electrical contacts 128 allow for application of external power that could be used to operate the e-nose device and to recharge the rechargeable battery within the e-nose device.
FIGS. 3A-1-3A-7 show six perspective views of an embodiment of another e-nose device 100 b. E-nose device 100 b includes a nose 130 b, a display 120 b, and a set of buttons 124. Similar to e-nose device 100 a, nose 130 b in e-nose device 100 b is removably coupled to a housing 110 b. A set of connectors 127 allows for interconnection with external devices and systems.
As shown by the embodiment in
The device's housing 110 a can be formed of molded plastic and includes a lower half 112 a and an upper half 112 b. Many of the device's internal components are conveniently and efficiently mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 510 that extends substantially across the device's interior volume. Display 120 a is mounted at the top end of the PCB, where it is visible through an aperture 520 formed in the housing's upper half 112 a. The push-button control switches 122 a through 122 c are mounted below display 120 a, in positions where they can extend through correspondingly sized openings 522 formed in the housing's upper half 112 a.
A valve assembly 540 mounted on the underside of PCB 510 receives the test sample drawn into e-nose device 100 a via sampling wand 130 a and the reference sample via intake port 132. The test sample is directed from sampling wand 130 a to the valve assembly via a tube 532, and the clean sample is directed from intake port 132 to the valve assembly via a tube 534. Valve assembly 540 is configured to select from one of two sources, coming via either sampling wand 130 a or intake port 132. From valve assembly 540, the sample from the selected source is directed via a tube 536 through socket 152 to sensor module 150 a, which is located on the top side of the PCB. After analysis by the sensor module, the sample is directed through a tube 538 to a pump 560 located on the underside of the PCB. Finally, the sample is discharged from the device by directing it from pump 560 through a tube 562 to exhaust port 134. Alternatively, pump 560 could be located in the path between valve assembly 540 and sensor module 150 a. In an embodiment, the components coming in contact with the sample being processed (including tubes 532, 534, 536, 538, and 562) are formed of an inert or non-corrosive material, such as Teflon, stainless steel, or Teflon-coated metal. Valve assembly 540 in
In certain aspects, the handheld apparatus of the present invention includes an optional preconcentrator. Advantageously, with certain analytes, such as high vapor pressure analytes, the analyte is concentrated on an absorbent. The preconcentrator can be used to increase the concentration of analytes in the test sample. Preconcentrators are traps composed of an adsorbent material. In use, an adsorbent material attracts molecules from the gas sample that are concentrated on the surface of the adsorbent. Subsequently, the sample is “desorbed” and analyzed. Suitable preconcentrator materials include, but are not limited to, a polymeric adsorbent material, unsilanized glass wool, Teflon or porus glass fiber, and the like. The adsorbent material is packed in a tube, such as a steel tube.
During use, the sample is drawn into the trap that concentrates the components of interest. In some instances, the tube is wrapped with a wire through which current can be applied to heat and thus, desorb the test sample. The sample is thereafter transferred into the module containing the sensors.
The preconcentrator can be disposed in various locations between the sampling wand and the sensor module. In certain aspects, the preconcentrator can be placed in the nozzle of the device or, alternatively, in the manifold or other convenient location upstream of the sensor module. For example, the preconcentrator can be disposed within valve assembly 540, or housed in a unit coupled to the valve assembly (not shown in FIG. 5). Optionally, additional valves can be installed in the device facilitating preconcentration and sensing.
Suitable commercially available adsorbent materials used in preconcentrators include, but are not limited to, Tenax TA, Tenax GR, Carbotrap, Carbopack B and C, Carbotrap C, Carboxen, Carbosieve Sm, Porapak, Spherocarb, and combinations thereof. Preferred adsorbent combinations include, but are not limited to, Tenax GR and Carbopack B; Carbopack B and Carbosieve SIII; and Carbopack C and Carbopack B and Carbosieve SIII or Carboxen 1000. Those skilled in the art will know of other suitable absorbents.
Operation of e-nose device 100 is controlled by a processor disposed within an electronic unit 570 mounted on the topside of PCB 510. Electronic unit 570 further includes one or more memory devices to store program codes, data, and other configuration information. The electronic unit and control of the e-nose device is described in further detail below.
Filter 636, manifold 640, valve 644, sensor module 650, and pump 660 in
As shown in
Like the chemically sensitive sensors included on sensor array devices 720 in
The e-nose device of the invention includes an array of sensors and, in certain instances, the sensors as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,571,401 are used. Various sensors suitable for detection of analytes include, but are not limited to: surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors; quartz microbalance sensors; conductive composites; chemiresitors; metal oxide gas sensors, such as tin oxide gas sensors; organic gas sensors; metal oxide field effect transistor (MOSFET); piezoelectric devices; infrared sensors; sintered metal oxide sensors; Pd-gate MOSFET; metal FET structures; metal oxide sensors, such as a Tuguchi gas sensors; phthalocyanine sensors; electrochemical cells; conducting polymer sensors; catalytic gas sensors; organic semiconducting gas sensors; solid electrolyte gas sensors; piezoelectric quartz crystal sensors; and Langmuir-Blodgett film sensors.
In a preferred embodiment, the sensors of the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,571,401, incorporated herein by reference. Briefly, the sensors described therein are conducting materials and nonconducting materials arranged in a matrix of conducting and nonconducting regions. The nonconductive material can be a nonconducting polymer such as polystyrene. The conductive material can be a conducting polymer, carbon black, an inorganic conductor and the like. The sensor arrays comprise at least two sensors, typically about 32 sensors, and in certain instances 1000 sensors. The array of sensors can be formed on an integrated circuit using semiconductor technology methods, an example of which is disclosed in PCT Patent Application Serial No. WO99/08105, entitled “Techniques and Systems for Analyte Detection,” published Feb. 19, 1999, and incorporate herein by reference.
In certain instances, the handheld device of the present invention comprises an array of surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors, preferably polymer-coated SAW sensors. The SAW device contains up to six and typically about four sensors in the array. Optionally, the device includes a preconcentrator with a heater for desorption of the sample.
As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, the sensors making up the array of the present invention can be made up of various sensor types as set forth above. For instance, the sensor array can comprise a conducting/nonconducting regions sensor, a SAW sensor, a metal oxide gas sensor, a conducting polymer sensor, a Langmuir-Blodgett film sensor, and combinations thereof.
The chemically sensitive resistors used to implement the sensors typically have baseline resistance values of greater than 1 kilo-ohm (KΩ). These baseline values can vary as much as ±50% over time. For example, a particular chemically sensitive resistor may have a baseline resistance that varies between 15 KΩ and 45 KΩ. This large resistance variability imposes a challenge on the design of the resistance measurement circuitry. In addition, the ratio of the change in resistance to the initial baseline resistance, or ΔR/R, which is indicative of the concentration of the analytes, can be very small (i.e., on the order of hundreds of parts per million, or 0.01%). This small amount of change, likewise, imposes a challenge on the design of the measurement circuitry. Further, some sensor module embodiments include multiple (e.g., 32) chemically sensitive resistors, and it is desirable to measure the resistance values of all resistors with minimum circuit complexity.
Referring back to
The analog voltages from the resistor divider networks are provided through a multiplexer (MUX) 1226 to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 1230. MUX 1226 selects, in sequence, the chemically sensitive resistors on the sensor module. Optionally, a low-noise instrumentation amplifier 1228 can be used to amplify the voltage prior to digitization, to improve the ADC's performance and provide increased resolution.
In an embodiment, ADC 1230 is a 22-bit (or higher) delta-sigma ADC having a wide dynamic range. This allows low-noise amplifier 1228 to be set to a fixed gain (i.e., using a single high precision resistor). Commercially available low cost delta-sigma ADCs can reach sampling speeds as fast as about 1 millisecond per channel.
In one implementation, the reference voltage provided by power supply 1224 to the voltage divider networks is also provided to a reference input of ADC 1230. Internally, ADC 1230 compares the divider network output voltages to this reference voltage and generates digitized samples. With this scheme, adverse effects on the divider network output voltages due to variations in the reference voltage are substantially reduced.
The digitized samples from ADC 1230 are provided to processor 1210 for further processing. Processor 1210 also provides timing signals to MUX 1226 and ADC 1230. Timing for the data acquisition can also be provided via a serial link to the ADC and via select lines of the MUX.
Each amplifier 1258 is a differential amplifier having a reference (i.e., inverting) input that couples to a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 1262. The DC offset of the amplifier is controlled by processor 1250 by measuring the offset with ADC 1260 and directing DAC 1262 to provide a proper offset correction voltage. To account for DC drift (i.e., drift in the baseline resistance of the chemically sensitive resistor) the offset can be adjusted prior to actual measurement. Further electrical stability is maintained by placing ADC 1260 on-board and using differential MUXes.
In the embodiments in
In an embodiment, the delta-sigma ADC includes differential inputs, programmable amplifiers, on-chip calibration, and serial peripheral interface (SPI) compatibility. In an embodiment, the ADC internal differential MUXes are configured: (1) with respect to ground for increased effective resolution of the measurement, and (2) configured with respect to the reference voltage for high precision measurement, enhanced electronic stability, and to provide a ratiometric measuring mechanism. A status signal from the ADC indicates when the internal digital filter has settled, thus providing an indication to select the next analog channel for digitization.
One or more memory devices are provided to store program codes, data, and other configuration information, and are mounted adjacent to the processor. Suitable memory devices include a random-access memory (RAM), a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a FLASH memory, a read only memory (ROM), a programmable read only memory (PROM), an electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable and programmable PROM (EEPROM), and other memory technologies. The size of the memories is application dependent, and can be readily expanded as needed.
In an embodiment, the processor executes program codes that coordinate various operations of the e-nose device. The program codes include interaction software that assists the user in selecting the operating modes and methods and to initiate the tests. After the e-nose device performs a test or operation, the user is optionally presented with concise results. In the embodiment in which the device includes a processor and a built-in algorithm, complex functions and capabilities can be provided by the device. In other embodiments in which simplified electronics is provided, complex functions and capabilities of the e-nose device are optionally set up and driven from a host computer using PC based software.
The processors can also be used to provide temperature control for each individual sensor array device in the sensor module. In an implementation, each sensor array device can include a back-side heater. Further, the processor can control the temperature of the sample chambers (e.g., chambers 710 a and 710 b in
After the processor has collected data representing a set of variable resistance measurements for a particular unknown test sample, it proceeds to correlate that data with data representing a set of previously collected standards stored in memory (i.e., either RAM 1212 or ROM 1214). This comparison facilitates identification of analytes present in the sample chamber and determination of the quantity or concentration of such analytes, as well as detection of temporal changes in such identities and quantities. Various analyses suitable for identifying analytes and quantifying concentration include principal component analysis, Fischer linear analysis, neural networks, genetic algorithms, fuzzy logic, pattern recognition, and other algorithms. After analysis is completed, the resulting information is displayed on display 120 or transmitted to a host computer via interface 1232, or both.
The identification of analytes and the determination of sample concentration can be performed by an “analyzer.” As used herein, the analyzer can be a processor (such as processors 1210 and 1260 described above), a DSP processor, a specially designed ASIC, or other circuits designed to performed the analysis functions described herein. The analyzer can also be a general-purpose processor executing program codes written to perform the required analysis functions.
As noted above, to facilitate identification of specified analytes, the variable resistance data from the sensors for a particular unknown test sample can be correlated with a set of previously collected standards stored in memory. These standards can be collected using one of at least two suitable techniques, as described below.
In one technique, a known reference sample is provided to the sample chamber(s). The known sample can be supplied from a small reference cartridge (i.e., located within the e-nose device). The supplies of this reference sample to the sample chambers can be controlled by a compact solenoid valve under the control of the processor. An advantage of using a known reference sample is the ability to control the identity of the reference sample. The cartridge can be replaced periodically.
In another technique, the unknown test sample supplied to the sample chambers can be selectively “scrubbed” by diverting it through a cleansing agent (e.g., charcoal). Again, the diversion of the test sample through the cleansing agent can be controlled by the processor via a compact solenoid valve. An advantage of this variation is that a cartridge is not needed. The cleansing agent can be cleaned periodically, although it may be difficult to ensure that the reference sample is free of all contaminants.
The processors in
The processors further control the peripheral devices such as the display, the valve assembly, and the pump. The processors also monitor the input devices (e.g., push button switches 122 in
In the embodiment in
The on-board memory (i.e., external RAM) is provided for data logging purposes. In an embodiment, the memory is organized in blocks of 32 K×8 bits. In an embodiment, each sample from the ADC is 24 bits and occupies three bytes of memory. Thus, each 32 K-byte memory block provides storage for 10,666 samples. If all 32 channels are used for data logging purposes, the memory block provides storage for 333 data points/channel. An internal power supply preserves the data stored in the memory and is designed with a lifetime of over five years. The ADC sampling rate is programmable and the data can be downloaded over the digital RS-232 interface to the host computer.
Communication between the on-board processor and the host computer is available to configure the device and to download data, in real time or at a later time via the RS-232 interface. A transfer rate of 9600 bits/second can transmit approximately 400 data points/second, and higher transfer rates can be used.
After executing the function background subroutine, the program proceeds to a step 1316 in which the processor determines whether or not push-button switch B1 (e.g., switch 122 a in
If it is determined at step 1316 that push button B1 is not (or no longer) being pressed, the program proceeds to a step 1320 in which it is determined whether or not push-button switch B2 (e.g., switch 122 b in
Otherwise, if the selected operating mode is not the Identify mode, a determination is made whether or not the selected operating mode is the Purge mode, at a step 1346. If it is, the program executes the purge mode subroutine (depicted in FIG. 13F), at a step 1348. Otherwise, the program executes the purge target mode subroutine (depicted in FIG. 13G), at a step 1350. The purge target mode is the default mode.
Back at step 1340, if it is determined that the selected operating mode is the Target mode, the program proceeds to a step 1352 in which the function background subroutine is executed. This provides updated values for the internal and external ADCs, as described above. Thereafter, at a step 1354, it is determined whether or not push-button switches B1 and B2 are being pressed concurrently. If they are, the program does not implement the Target mode and instead returns to the idle loop (step 1322 in FIG. 13A).
Otherwise, if it is determined at step 1354 that both push-button switches B1 and B2 are not being pressed concurrently, the program proceeds to a step 1356 in which it is determined whether or not switch B1 has been pressed. If it has been, the program proceeds to a step 1358 in which the particular target number is incremented. In an embodiment, the e-nose device is configured to measure multiple (e.g., eight) different target samples, and step 1358 enables the operator to select the particular target sample that is to be drawn into the device for measurement. The identity of these target samples previously has been loaded into the device from the host computer. There after, the program returns to the step 1352 to execute the function background subroutine. Each time it is determined that switch B1 has been pressed, the program cycles through this loop, incrementing through the preloaded complement of target samples.
If it is determined at step 1356 that switch B1 has not been pressed, the program proceeds to a step 1360 in which it is determined whether or not switch B2 has been pressed. If it has not, the program returns to step 1352 to execute the function background subroutine. Otherwise, if it is determined in step 1360 that switch B2 has just been pressed, the program proceeds to implement the target mode subroutine (depicted in FIG. 13D), at a step 1362.
At a step 1376, the 32 resistance measurements (i.e., the “response vector”) for this particular target vapor are normalized. In an embodiment, this normalization set the sum of all 32 measurements equal to a value of 1×106. The normalized response vector for this target sample then is stored in memory, at a step 1378. Finally, at a step 1380, the pump and valve assembly are configured to draw clean air into the sample chamber(s). The target mode subroutine then terminates, and the program returns to the idle loop (step 1322 in FIG. 13A).
By selecting the ID Method option, a menu screen 1412 appears that queries the user to press “sniff” to begin identification or “cancel” to return to the main menu. Upon selecting the sniff option, the e-nose device begins the identification process, as shown in a menu screen 1414, and provides the results upon completion of the process, as shown in a menu screen 1416. The user is provided with an option to save the results.
By selecting the Qu Method option, a menu screen 1420 appears that queries the user to select a target. If the identity of the target is unknown, a menu screen 1422 provides the user with the option of performing a sniff to identify the unknown target. Upon selecting the sniff option, the e-nose device begins the identification process, as shown in a menu screen 1424, and provides the identity upon completion of the process, as shown in a menu screen 1426. Once the sample is identified or if the identity is known initially, the target can be quantified in menu screens 1426 and 1428. The e-nose device begins the quantification process, as shown in a menu screen 1430, and provides the results upon completion of the process, as shown in a menu screen 1432.
By selecting the PC Method option, a menu screen 1440 appears that queries the user to press “sniff” to begin the process control or “cancel” to return to the main menu. Upon selecting the sniff option, the e-nose device begins the process control, as shown in a menu screen 1442, and provides the status report, as shown in a menu screen 1444.
By selecting the DL Method option, a menu screen 1450 appears that queries the user to press “sniff” to begin the data logging or “cancel” to return to the main menu. Upon selecting the sniff option, the e-nose device begins the data logging process, as shown in a menu screen 1452, and provides the status report, as shown in a menu screen 1454.
By selecting the Train option, a menu screen 1460 appears that queries the user to select one of a number of training methods. The user selects a particular method and a menu screen 1462 appears that queries the user to select one of a number of targets. The user selects a particular target and a menu screen 1464 appears that queries the user to press “sniff” to begin the training. Upon selecting the sniff option, the e-nose device begins the training process using the method and target selected by the user, as shown in a menu screen 1466.
By selecting the Diagnostics option, a menu screen 1470 appears that queries the user to select a diagnostic to run. Possible diagnostics include, for example, RS-232 port, USB port, sensor range test, memory, processor, and program check sum. The user selects a particular diagnostic and the e-nose device begins the selected diagnostic test, as shown in a menu screen 1472, and provides the diagnostic results, as shown in a menu screen 1474.
In certain aspects of the invention, the e-nose device is designed using modular sections. For example, the nose, filter, manifold, sensor module, power pack, processor, memory, and others can optionally be disposed within a module that can be installed or swapped, as necessary. The modular design provides many advantages, some of which are related to the following characteristics: exchangeable, removable, replaceable, upgradable, and non-static.
With a modular design, the e-nose device can be designed for use in wide variety of applications in various industries. For example, multiple sensor modules, filters, and so on, can be added as the list of samples to be measured expands.
In certain embodiments, the modular design can also provide improved performance. The various modules (i.e., nose, filter, manifold, sensor module, and so on) can be designed to provide accurate measurement of a particular set of test samples. Different modules can be used to measure different samples. Thus, performance is not sacrificed by the use of a small portable e-nose device. For example, to sense high molecular weight analytes, a certain particular nose chip is plugged in. Then, to analyze lower molecular weight analytes, another nose chip may be plugged in.
The modular design can also result in a cost effective e-nose design. Since some of the components can be easily replace, it is no longer necessary to dispose the entire e-nose device if a particular component wears out. Only the failed components are replaced.
In certain embodiments, the modular design can also provide an upgradable design. For example, the processor and memory module (individually or in combination) can be disposed within an electronic unit that can be upgraded with new technologies, or as required by on the particular application. Additional memory can be provided to store more data, by simply swapping out memory modules. Also, the analysis algorithms can be included in a program module that inserts into the e-nose device. The program modules can then be swapped as desired.
The modular design can also provide for disposable modules. This may be advantageous, for example, when analyzing toxic samples.
In the embodiments described above, the e-nose device includes an external sampling wand (or nose or snout). The nose can be attached to the device using a mechanical interconnect, such as a simple ¼-turn type, a threaded screw, a snap-on mechanical arrangement, and other interconnect mechanisms. Many materials can be used to fabricate the nose component, such as injection moldable materials.
In certain embodiments, the nose is interchangeable and uses a standard luer interconnection. The nose can be, for example, about 1 inch to about 50 inches in length and, preferably, the nose is about 6 inches to about 20 inches in length. The nose can optionally be ridged, or be a long flexi-hose or a flexible snorkel. In some embodiments, the nose has a luer needle on the smelling end. Optionally, the nose can withstand an internalized pressure and is joined with a pressured valve.
As shown in
In some alternative embodiments, intake ports (such as intake port 132) can be used to receive test samples. The intake ports can substitute for, or supplement the external nose.
In certain aspects, the chemically sensitive sensors in the sensor module can be tailored to be particularly sensitive to particular classes of vapors. For example, the array for one such module can incorporate vapor sensors suitable for differentiating polar analytes such as water, alcohol, and ketones. Examples of polar polymers suitable for use as such vapor sensors include poly (4-vinyl phenol) and poly (4-vinyl pyrrolidone).
The sensor module can optionally be identified by means of an identification resistor (not shown) having a selected resistance. Thus, prior to processing the variable resistance measurements collected for the chemically sensitive resistors of each such sensor module, the processor measures the resistance of the identification resistor. In this manner, the nature of the module's chemically sensitive resistors can be initially ascertained.
A mechanism for detection of analytes is disclosed in the aforementioned PCT Patent Application Serial No. WO99/08105.
In some embodiments, the display is a liquid-crystal display (LCD). In other embodiments, the display is a graphical LCD that allows the device to display text and graphics. This type of display provides a quality product interaction experience. Examples of LCD modules include those manufactured by Epson Corporation, such as the EPSON EG7502 (TCM A0822) having a screen size of 57.56 mm by 35.99 mm, a 320×200 resolution with 0.8 dot pitch, and transflective and LED edge back light. Various other LCD modules are also suitable. Preferred LCD modules offer one or more of the following features: (1) higher resolution to allow for a smaller but comfortable display viewing areas (320×200 and fine dot pitch), (2) low power consumption (e.g., 3 mW to 9 mW), (3) multi-line scanning-(active addressing) technology, (4) integrated “touch” panel, (5) integrated power supply and controller chips, (6) LED backlighting—for smaller module, (6) displays used with video, and other features.
In certain embodiments, the e-nose device optionally includes input devices, such as push buttons, a keypad, a keyboard, a touchscreen, switches, other input mechanisms, or a combination of the above. The keypad can be fabricated from various materials. In certain embodiments, the keypad is molded from silicone rubber, which advantageously provides tactile feedback for gloved hands. Moreover, navigational controls can optionally be incorporated into the keypad and buttons. For example, a “sniff” button can be optionally positioned into the keypad.
The keypad can optionally be a membrane type keypad. In this implementation, the keypad is formed from laminated sheets of acrylic, Mylar, PC, or other suitable materials. Snap domes can be used to achieve greater tactile feedback for the user. Product graphics can be incorporated into the keypad. Advantageously, the keypad has flexibility with graphics, is easy to clean, and has protection from spillage. In addition, the keypad is configured with low stroke distances. In certain other instances, a micro-switch, such as for a “sniff” button, is used to further accentuate the tactile “click” feedback and generate a low-level audible signal.
In certain embodiments, the e-nose device optionally includes a pointer. Advantageously, the pointer provides greater application flexibility and ease of use in the field. In certain aspects, the pointer can be used for bar code reading and easy inventory control. Further, the device optionally includes a pad. The pad allows for application flexibility, such as in field, training, or lab use.
The e-nose device optionally includes other input devices, such as a touch screen. Suitable touch screens include the analog resistive type. Other touch screens include those similar to the ones in PDA, GPS, and other products. Yet other touch screens include electromagnetic resonance types optionally having a dedicated stylus, such as a battery-less stylus. In addition, touch screens can include, but are not limited to, electrostatic, GSAW, and analog resistive and capacitive types. The analog resistive touch screen is preferred since high and low resolutions can readily be achieved.
In certain embodiments, the e-nose device notifies the user by providing general and specific information about the device's current mode. Operators of the device can see what options are available. Guidelines and instructions are available to assist the users interact with the product. In certain instances, the descriptions and instructions are brief and specific. Graphics and icons assist users through the product interaction. Users are provided with a mechanism to stop the device when necessary, and to return to previous screens where appropriate. These various features collaborate to provide device interactions that are quick, simple, and reliable.
In other embodiments, the e-nose device provides the users with information regarding the status of the device. Examples include, but are not limited to, initiating an action, performing an operation, waiting for input, and so on. Moreover, other device input and output parameters, such as hardware controls, include, but are not limited to: Scroll Up—keypad; (2) Scroll Down—keypad; (3) Select—keypad; (4) Cancel —keypad; (5) Sniff—keypad; (6) Power-on/Backlight on/off; (7) Digital Input—connector, (8) Analog Output—connector; (9) Serial out (RS232)— RJ11; (10) USB—Standard A; (11) Display contrast—(thumbwheel, analog pot); (12) System reset—pin hole; (13) Battery recharge—Jack; (14) pneumatics ports; (15) nose inhale port (sample sniff port); (16) exhale (exhaust); and (17) reference intake.
The e-nose device optionally includes a power pack, such as a battery, for providing electrical power. In certain embodiments, the device operates from power supply voltages of approximately 3.3 volts and approximately 5.0 volts DC. In a specific embodiment, the device consumes approximately 3.2 watts or less, with a typical average power consumption of approximately 1.8 watts. In an embodiment, the device is capable of operation from about 1 hour to about 20 hours without requiring a recharge of the power pack.
The power pack can be fabricated using nickel cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), sealed lead-acid (SLA), or other battery technologies. Preferably, the battery pack has low weight and a high power density to keep the volume of the battery small. Lithium-ion cells have a relatively high internal resistance and wider range of voltages during a discharge compared to other battery chemistries. A voltage regulator can be used to provide proper voltages for the circuitry within the e-nose device. For efficiency, a switching voltage regulator can be used in place of linear type regulators. The voltage regulator can also be used to provide multiple output voltages for different circuitry within the e-nose device. In certain instances, output voltages required from the power supply include values above and below the battery voltage. In these instances, a SEPIC topology for the switching regulator can optionally be used. Conversion efficiency of such switching regulators is approximately 85%. To provide approximately 18 watt-hours of energy to the load using such switching regulator, the energy requirement from the lithium-ion battery pack is approximately 21 watt-hours.
In a specific embodiment, a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack of approximately 100 cubic centimeters (cc) in volume and about 250 grams in weight can optionally be used for the e-nose device. In another specific embodiment, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack can be used that weighs about 370 grams and has a volume of about 150 cc. Other batteries capable of providing an equivalent amount of energy include, but are not limited to, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery pack of approximately 560 grams and 210 cc and a sealed lead-acid (SLA) battery pack of approximately 750 grams and 350 cc.
In general, charging times increase and the available battery capacity reduces for low (e.g., 0 to 10° C.) and high (e.g., 40 to 50° C.) temperatures. For accurate “gas gauging” under such conditions, the Smart Battery System (SBS) can also be employed. The SBS is part of a commercially available System Management Bus (SMB) system. The SBS allows battery packs to communicate to smart chargers and other system intelligence using a physical protocol similar to the I2C bus protocol from Philips Corporation. The software protocol on the SMB allows for direct communication of parameters such as the state of charge, battery pack voltage, battery temperature, number of discharge cycles, and so on. Several vendors of integrated circuits now offer single chip implementations of the SMB interface. Alternatively, a custom programmed microcontroller, such as a PIC chip Microchip Technology Inc., can be used for this purpose.
In some embodiments, the device includes a power pack that is optionally chargeable. In some other embodiments, the device optionally includes batteries such as, for example, four AA cells. The cell chemistries can vary. The device optionally accommodates alkaline interchangeability.
The device optionally has a fitting for a secondary rechargeable pack that can be the same, or smaller, size as the power devices described above.
The e-nose device can be implemented in various configurations, to include various features, and be used in various applications. Some specific implementations are provided below.
In one specific implementation, the e-nose device includes a sensor array of 32 sensors, composed of conducting particles uniformly dispersed in a polymer matrix. Each polymer expands like a sponge when exposed to a test medium (e.g., vapor, liquid, gas), thereby increasing the resistance of the composite. The polymers expands to varying degrees because of their unique response to different analytes. This change in resistance varies across the sensor array, producing a distinctive signature response. Regardless of whether the analytes correspond to a complex mixture of chemicals in the test sample or from a single chemical, the e-nose device includes sufficient polymer arrays to produce a distinct electrical “fingerprint” for the samples of interest. The pattern of resistance changes in the sensor array is indicative of the identity of the analytes, while the amplitude of the pattern indicates the concentration of the analytes.
The normalized change in resistance is then transmitted to a processor that identifies the type, quantity, and quality of the vapor based on the detected pattern in the sensor array.
In another specific implementation, a portable e-nose device for use in the field to detect volatile compounds is fabricated according to the invention. The device incorporates an easy-to-read graphic LCD with back lighting and one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) to indicate mode of operation. Communications ports are provided to enable easy downloading of data into a spreadsheet package. Rapid response time, combined with easy one-button operation, provide an effective and accurate measurement of the samples. Power is supplied by replaceable or rechargeable batteries. Housed in a robust, water-resistant case, the portable e-nose device is suitable for various environments.
In yet another specific implementation, the e-nose device is designed to acquire and store data collected from 32 independent sensor elements. The e-nose device includes a 32-channel sample chamber with inlet/outlet ports, a pump, a 3-way solenoid switch, a LCD, push buttons, LED, a humidity probe, a temperature probe, and a digital interface.
The power supply is designed for a 9-volt DC input. A rectifying diode is added for circuit protection. Two on-board 5-volt linear regulators are utilized for the analog and digital circuitry, respectively. A high precision buried Zener diode is provided to supply a +2.5 volt reference. The overall design is a mixed 3V and 5V design for reduced power consumption in a handheld device.
The sample chamber houses 32 sensor elements deposited on four ceramic substrates, each with eight sensor elements. The substrates are fabricated using hybrid microelectronic co-fired ceramic (alumina) processes. Electrodes and contacts are deposited as thick films using screen-printing techniques. Resistive paths can be provided (e.g., three paths) to be used as heating elements. On the backside of the substrate, a surface mount thermistor can be placed to form a heating/cooling control loop.
An inlet port is provided and a baffle can be inserted to fan out the incoming sample stream. The outlet port is respective to ambient barometric pressures. The sample chamber can be fabricated of Teflon and is airtight, and is mount to the PCB. An on-board pump can push the sample flow into the sample chamber at pressures slightly higher than 14.7 psi. The on-board 3-way solenoid switch can switch under processor control between a known reference source (i.e., to “re-zero” or recalibrate as necessary) and an unknown test sample. The four ceramic substrates are inserted in two 20-pin, 50-mil spacing, dual row connectors. The spacing between the rows is 100 mils. A temperature probe is inserted into one connector and a humidity probe is inserted into the other. The temperature and humidity probes are used for diagnostics.
A biasing network can been implemented that biases the chemically sensitive resistor in a DC mode of operation. The network is a ratiometric network that is easy to implement and stable, and offers a wide dynamic range.
It has been shown that 50 PPM changes in electrical resistance of the chemically sensitive can be measured. Further, baseline changes greater than ±50% can be accounted for with minimal change in applied power, as shown in Table 1.
Detectable Changes in Resistance for Various Baseline Resistances
Assuming that Johnson noise is the dominant noise source, it is possible to calculate an average noise voltage of 0.3 μV over a 10 Hz bandwidth and can thus detect these step changes. By keeping the current low (i.e., <25 μA) the 1/f noise is reduced. In general, the biasing scheme is a constant voltage, DC system. The current is limited to micro-amperes (μAs) per sensor element and the applied power is in the order of micro-watts (μWs). For added flexibility the current is limited and the output voltage is scaled by resistors.
The handheld sensing apparatus of the present invention was used to sense a series of four (4) homologous ester analytes. The analytes sensed were the ethyl esters of propionate, butyrate, valerate, and hexanoate. The response data was then analyzed using principal component analysis. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is a powerful visualization tool that provides a way to reduce the dimensionality of the data. PCA finds linear combinations of the original independent variables that account for maximal amounts of variation and provides the best possible view of variability in the independent variable block. Natural clustering in the data is readily determined.
Analytes detectable by the e-nose device of the invention include, but are not limited to, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, dienes, alicyclic hydrocarbons, arenes, alcohols, ethers, ketones, aldehydes, carbonyls, carbanions, heterocycles, polynuclear aromatics, organic derivatives, biomolecules, microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, sugars, nucleic acids, isoprenes, isoprenoids, and fatty acids and their derivatives. Many biomolecules, such as amino acids, are amenable to detection using the sensor arrays of the invention.
The e-nose device can be used to enable medical and dental care-providers to quickly and accurately identify the chemical components in breath, wounds, and bodily fluids to diagnose a host of illness including infections and metabolic problems. For example, the e-nose device can be used to test for skin conditions, for anesthesia administration, or to determine time of ovulation in fertility treatment. Alternatively, the handheld device can classify and identify microorganisms, such as bacteria.
The e-nose device can be used to locate an odor to identify a complicated system or state of matter, and can offer versatility and reliability absent from conventional environmental or chemical monitoring devices. Advantageously, the device can be used for profiling a chemical environment in a hazardous materials situation and to assist emergency crews to accurately select fire retardant, containment strategies, and protective gear.
The e-nose device can be used to detect leaks in pipelines and storage containers.
The e-nose device can be used in food quality and processing control. For example, the device can be used to spot test for immediate results or to continually monitor batch-to-batch consistency and spoilage in various stages of a product, including production (i.e., growing), preparation, and distribution. The device can also be used in disposable packaging to providing an objectivity that is absent from conventional spoilage, freshness, and contamination monitoring techniques.
The e-nose device can also be used in protecting the elderly, who tend to lose sense of smell over time. The device can be used to reduce the risk of food poisoning or the ingestion of spoiled food, and can be integrated with household appliances, such as refrigerators and microwave ovens.
The e-nose device can be used in a wide variety of commercial applications including, but not limited to:
It should be appreciated from the foregoing description that the present invention provides an improved vapor sensing instrument that not only is sufficiently small and lightweight to be handheld, but also is modular so as to allow the device to be conveniently adapted for use in sensing the presence and identity of a wide variety of specified vapors.
Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to the presently preferred embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various modifications can be made without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the invention is defined only by the following claims.
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|24 Sep 2008||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 4
|26 Sep 2012||FPAY||Fee payment|
Year of fee payment: 8