Tracer detection system and method for characterizing effectiveness of air removal in aerosol zone

Abstract

One variation of a method includes: during performing a tracer test: triggering release of a tracer load into air in an aerosol zone by a dispenser transiently disposed in the aerosol zone, the tracer load including a concentration of aerosol tracer; and recording a time series of aerosol data via a sensor unit momentarily arranged in the aerosol zone, the time series of aerosol data representing a concentration of aerosol particles present in the air. The method further includes deriving a tracer concentration profile representing a change in concentration of the aerosol tracer particles based on the time series and concentration of the aerosol data; deriving a gas flow value indicative of removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the tracer test based on a characteristic of the tracer concentration curve; and interpreting a result of the tracer test based on a difference between the airflow value and a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 077,185, filed on December 7, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 405,340, filed on September 9, 2022, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of metagenomics, and more particularly to new and useful systems and methods for characterizing air removal effectiveness in the aerosol zone in the field of metagenomics. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a flow chart representation of a method;

[0006] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a flow chart representation of the method;

[0007] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C is a flow chart representation of the method;

[0008] Figure 4 is a flowchart representation of the method; and

[0009] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is a schematic representation of the system.

[0010] Description of Embodiments

[0011] The following description of embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the present invention to these embodiments, but to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the present invention. The variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples described herein are optional and are not exclusive to the variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples they describe. The present invention described herein may include any and all combinations of these variations, configurations, implementations, example implementations, and examples.

[0012] 1. Methods: Aerosol Tracer Particles

[0013] like Figure 1 , Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 3C and Figure 4As shown, method S100 includes: during a first tracer test performed in an aerosol zone within a first test period: in box S110, a first time series of aerosol data is recorded via a group of sensors 122 integrated in a first sensor unit 120 in a first unit position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone, the first time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the first unit position during the first test period; and, in box S120, during a first dispensing period, a dispenser 110 in a dispenser 110 position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone (offset from the first unit position by a target distance) is triggered to release a first tracer load into the air in the aerosol zone, the first tracer load including a test concentration of aerosol tracer particles. Method S100 also includes: in box S130, based on the first time series of aerosol data and the test concentration, deriving a first tracer concentration curve representing the concentration change of aerosol tracer particles at a first unit position during a first test period; in box S140, based on the characteristics of the first tracer concentration curve, deriving a first airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period; and interpreting a first result of the first tracer test based on the difference between the first airflow value and a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone.

[0014] In one variation, method S100 further includes, in response to the first result corresponding to a target result (e.g., a "pass" result, at least a threshold score), verifying a first set of removal paths (e.g., particle capture, particle settling, ventilation) employed in the aerosol zone during the first test period. Additionally or alternatively, in another variation, method S100 further includes: in response to the first result being different from the target result, pausing verification of the first set of removal paths employed in the aerosol zone.

[0015] 1.1. Method: Aerosol tracer particles + tracer gas

[0016] like Figure 2A-2B , Figure 3A-3C and Figure 4As shown, a variation of method S100 includes: during a first tracer test performed in an aerosol zone within a first test period: during the first dispensing period, releasing a first tracer load into the air in the aerosol zone via a dispenser 110 temporarily arranged in a target position in the aerosol zone, the first tracer load comprising a first concentration of aerosol tracer particles and a second concentration of tracer gas; recording a first time series of aerosol data via a first sensor temporarily arranged in a first position in the aerosol zone, the first time series of aerosol data representing the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the first sensor during the test period; and recording a second time series of gas data via a second sensor temporarily arranged in a second position in the aerosol zone, the second time series of gas data representing the presence of tracer gas in the air at the second sensor during the test period. In this variation, method S100 further includes: deriving an aerosol tracer concentration curve representing the time series concentration of aerosol tracer particles in the aerosol zone during the test period based on a first time series and a first concentration of aerosol data; characterizing a first airflow value representing the removal of airborne particles from the aerosol zone based on characteristics of the aerosol concentration curve; interpreting the gas tracer concentration curve representing the time series concentration of tracer gas in the aerosol zone during the test period based on a second time series and a second concentration of gas data; and deriving a second airflow value representing the removal of gas from the aerosol zone based on the characteristics of the gas concentration curve.

[0017] 2. Tracer detection system: particle sensor + gas sensor

[0018] like Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the tracer detection system 100 includes a dispenser 110, which is temporarily installed in a dispenser 110 position in an aerosol zone and includes: a reservoir 112, which contains a mixture of a non-volatile tracer and a volatile tracer in a solution; an actuator 116, which is configured to release a tracer test load from the reservoir 112 and release it into the aerosol zone, the tracer test load including a first concentration of an aerosol tracer and a second concentration of a tracer gas; and a first power module 118, which is configured to power the actuator 116.

[0019] The tracer detection system 100 also includes a first sensor unit 120, which is arranged at a first unit location in the aerosol zone (offset from the location of the dispenser 110 by a target distance) and includes a first set of sensors 122; a sensor communication module 124; a controller 124; and a second power module 128, which is configured to briefly supply power to the first set of sensors 122, the controller 124, and the sensor communication module 124. The first set of sensors 122 includes: a first particle sensor configured to signal the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the first unit location; and a first gas sensor configured to signal the presence of tracer gas in the air at the first unit location. The controller 124 is configured to: read a first time series of signals from the first particle sensor in response to a command received by the sensor communication module 124; read a second time series of signals from the gas sensor in response to the command; interpret a time series of amounts of aerosol particles in the air flowing through the first unit location based on the first time series of signals; and interpret a time series of amounts of tracer gas in the air flowing through the first unit location based on the second time series of signals.

[0020] In one variation, the tracer detection system 100 also includes a computer module 130 (e.g., a computer system) that is configured to: send commands to the sensor communication module 124 to selectively trigger the recording of time series tracer data via a set of sensors 122 integrated within the sensor unit 120; and convert the time series tracer data recorded by the controller 124 into a set of airflow values ​​representing the airflow in the aerosol zone during performance of the tracer test.

[0021] In one variation, the tracer detection system 100 also includes a second sensor unit 120, which is arranged in a second unit position in the aerosol zone and includes: a second group of sensors 122, the second group of sensors 122 including a second particle sensor and a second gas sensor, the second particle sensor being configured to signal the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the second unit position, the second gas sensor being configured to signal the presence of tracer gas in the air at the second unit position; a second sensor communication module 124; a second controller 124; and a third power supply module 128, which is configured to supply power to the second controller 124 and the second group of sensors 122. The second controller 124 is configured to: read a third time series of signals from the second particle sensor in response to a command received by the second sensor communication module 124; read a fourth time series of signals from the second gas sensor in response to a command received by the second sensor communication module 124; interpret the time series of aerosol particles in the air flowing through the second unit location based on the third time series of signals; and interpret the time series of tracer gas in the air flowing through the second unit location based on the fourth time series of signals. In this variation, the first sensor unit 120 and the second sensor unit 120 cooperate to define a target arrangement of the sensor units 120 arranged around the dispenser 110.

[0022] 3. Application

[0023] In general, the blocks of method S100 can be performed by a computer system (e.g., a local or remote computer system, a computer network, a local or remote server) in conjunction with a tracer detection system 100 (including a dispenser 110 and a sensor unit 120) (hereinafter referred to as the "system") to: dispense a known concentration of a tracer (e.g., aerosolized tracer particles, a volatile tracer) in a solution into a defined indoor environment (or "aerosol zone") via a dispenser 110 temporarily installed in a dispenser 110 location within the indoor environment; simultaneously capture time series tracer data representing the concentration of the tracer in the air via a set of sensor units 120 temporarily arranged around the dispenser 110 in a target configuration; and, such as after the tracer is dispensed into the indoor environment by the dispenser 110, derive a time series concentration of these tracers over time in the indoor environment (represented by a tracer concentration curve). The computer system can then use the tracer concentration curve to gain insights related to the flow and / or removal of air (including gases and / or particles) in the particular environment.

[0024] In one embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 can be temporarily deployed to a specific facility (such as an office building, a home, a restaurant, a classroom, a shopping mall, a hospital, an airport terminal, etc.) and is configured to: dispense a known amount of tracer (e.g., salt particles) into the facility via releasing a test load of tracer at a molecular tracer dispenser 110; and detect the amount of aerosol particles (including aerosolized tracer) in the ambient air in the facility at a sensor unit 120. In this embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to perform the tracer release according to a specific set of release parameters, such as a specific dispensing time (e.g., timestamp, time period), a total duration of the tracer release, a target frequency of each tracer dispensing during the tracer release, an amount of tracer (e.g., salt) released in each dispensing, etc., so as to generate a detectable tracer signal that is configured to enable linking of the tracer detected at the sensor unit 120 with the tracer dispensed during the specific tracer release. The sensor unit 120—comprising a set of sensors 122 (e.g., aerosol particle counters, gas sensors) configured to detect the presence of aerosols in the air—can be configured to then record a time series of aerosol data representing the time-stamped amount of aerosol particles (e.g., aerosolized tracer) in the air detected at the sensor unit 120 after performing a tracer release. The system can then utilize the time series of aerosol data in conjunction with known release parameters to interpret a tracer signal (e.g., a curve or model) representing the amount of tracer of the tracer type detected at the sensor unit 120 over time after dispensing a test load of tracer. Based on the characteristics of the tracer signal, the system can then derive a set of airflow values ​​representing aerosol flow in the particular space, such as an air change rate (e.g., a volumetric air change rate) and / or an exposure reduction rate.

[0025] In particular, during a test period, the system can perform a tracer test to obtain insights related to aerosol behavior in a specific aerosol zone within a facility, such as insights related to flow, movement, and / or distribution patterns. In preparation for performing the tracer test, the aerosol detection system 100 can be deployed to the facility for installation within a specific aerosol zone and / or a set of aerosol zones within the facility. In one embodiment, the aerosol detection system 100—such as including a dispenser 110 and one or more air samplers—can be briefly deployed and installed within the aerosol zone for a defined duration (e.g., 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours) to enable the performance of a tracer test or a series of tracer tests during that defined duration. Once installed within the aerosol zone, the system can perform the tracer test accordingly and interpret a set of airflow values for the aerosol zone based on the time-series aerosol data recorded during the performance of the tracer test. Then, after completion of the tracer test or series of tracer tests, the aerosol detection system 100 can be retrieved from the aerosol zone, e.g., for installation within another aerosol zone within the facility and / or for storage elsewhere.

[0026] For example, an operator associated with the aerosol zone can position the dispenser 110 and the air sampler 120 within the aerosol zone (e.g., in a target configuration) to prepare for performing the tracer test. Once deployed within the aerosol zone, the system can: initiate a test period of a target duration (e.g., 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours); perform one or more tracer tests during that test period, including releasing a tracer test load by the dispenser 110 and recording time-series aerosol data by the air sampler; and output the results of each tracer test, e.g., aerosol metrics (e.g., ventilation range, aerosol reduction rate, air velocity and / or direction), risk levels associated with one or more pathogens, the effectiveness of various interventions or environmental controls (e.g., HVAC settings, occupancy level, activity level); and report these aerosol metrics and / or additional insights to a manager associated with the aerosol zone (near) real-time. Thus, the system can obtain in-depth insights into the flow and movement of aerosols in the aerosol zone by performing (relatively) short tracer tests (e.g., 10-minute test, 20-minute test, 1-hour test).

[0027] For example, as Figure 3A-3CAs shown, the system can: derive a tracer concentration curve based on time - series aerosol data captured by one or more sensor units 120 deployed in the aerosol zone during the execution of a tracer test, which represents the decay of the tracer concentration in the air in the aerosol zone during a decay period after the tracer test load is distributed into the aerosol zone; and extract features from this concentration curve, such as including the area under the curve (or "AUC"), the maximum concentration of the tracer, the final concentration of the tracer, the baseline concentration of the tracer in the aerosol zone, the decay rate (e.g., the slope of the curve), etc., to derive an airflow value (e.g., volumetric airflow rate) representing the removal of tracer particles from the aerosol zone during the tracer test. Additionally, the system can: compare this airflow value with a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone, such as a target removal rate and / or a target ventilation rate (e.g., target volumetric airflow rate); and interpret the results of the tracer test (such as a "pass" result or a "fail" result) based on the difference between the target airflow value and the (measured) airflow value. Based on this result, the system can selectively recommend implementing and / or modifying various removal paths employed in the aerosol zone, such as removal paths related to capture, filtration, sedimentation, ventilation, etc.

[0028] Further, in one variant, the system can utilize different distributions and detections of different types of tracers to obtain insights related to different types of air removal methods employed in the aerosol zone. Specifically, the system can: distribute a tracer test load including an aerosol tracer (e.g., salt) and a tracer gas (e.g., IPA) with known concentrations via a dispenser 110; record time - series aerosol data representing the concentration of the aerosol over time via a set of aerosol sensors 122 integrated into one or more sensor units 120 arranged around the dispenser 110 in a target configuration; record time - series gas data representing the concentration of the tracer gas over time via a set of gas sensors 122 integrated into one or more sensor units 120 arranged around the dispenser 110; interpret the aerosol concentration curve based on the time - series of the aerosol data and thus (e.g., based on the characteristics of this aerosol concentration curve) derive an aerosol airflow value representing the removal of airborne particles from the aerosol zone; and interpret the gas concentration curve based on the time - series of the gas data and thereby (e.g., based on the characteristics of this gas concentration curve) derive a gas airflow value representing the removal of gas from the aerosol zone.

[0029] Thus, the system can: utilize aerosol airflow values ​​(e.g., first volumetric airflow) to derive insights about particle removal pathways (e.g., ventilation, sedimentation, capture) associated with particle and / or aerosol removal in the aerosol zone; and utilize gas airflow values ​​(e.g., second volumetric airflow) to derive insights about gas removal pathways (e.g., ventilation, sedimentation, capture) associated with gas removal from the aerosol zone. Thus, the system can: validate gas removal pathways (such as associated with ventilation and / or outdoor air circulation within an indoor environment) independently of particle removal pathways (such as including ventilation and / or outdoor air circulation, sedimentation, filtration, dilution, etc.); and selectively recommend modifications to each of these removal pathways to improve air removal, minimize costs associated with air removal, and meet and / or exceed target particle and / or gas airflow values ​​defined for the aerosol zone.

[0030] 4. Tracer detection system

[0031] In general, the tracer detection system 100 includes a set of tracer dispensers 110 and a set of sensor units 120, which are temporarily deployed within a facility to perform one or more tracer tests. Specifically, the tracer detection system 100 may include: a set of tracer dispensers 110 (e.g., one or more tracer dispensers 110), which are configured to release a known amount (e.g., quantity, concentration, volume) of tracer in a solution (i.e., a tracer test load) into the air in a defined indoor environment (hereinafter referred to as an "aerosol zone") containing the set of tracer dispensers 110; and a set of sensor units 120 (e.g., one or more sensor units 120), which are configured to detect tracers in the air at the set of sensor units 120 and record the time series amounts of these tracers.

[0032] More specifically, the tracer detection system 100 may include a set of tracer dispensers 110 and a set of sensor units 120 deployed within an aerosol zone, such as within a single defined aerosol zone (e.g., an office, a classroom, a kitchen, a hallway) and / or across multiple zones (e.g., a group of offices, a floor of a building, adjacent classrooms, multiple stores within a shopping mall). Each tracer dispenser 110 in the group of tracer dispensers 110 can be configured to periodically release a known amount of tracer (i.e., a tracer test load) into the surrounding ambient air; and each sensor unit 120 in the group of sensor units 120 can be configured to ingest the surrounding ambient air and detect the presence of tracers (e.g., aerosolized tracer particles, tracer gas) present in the ingested ambient air via a group of sensors 122 (e.g., particle or aerosol sensors, gas sensors) integrated within the sensor unit 120, such as including aerosolized tracer particles (or "aerosol tracers") and / or tracer gases released by the group of tracer dispensers 110.

[0033] In addition, the tracer detection system 100 includes (or is connected to) a computer system, such as a local computer system (e.g., a local server or controller 124) or a remote computer system (e.g., a computer network) located within the facility, and connected to the set of tracer dispensers 110 and / or the set of sensor units 120 via a wired or wireless connection. The computer system can be configured to interface with the set of tracer dispensers 110 and the set of sensor units 120 to perform the blocks of method S100. For example, the computer system can: selectively activate a tracer dispenser 110 in the set of tracer dispensers 110 to trigger the release of a tracer test load; and selectively activate a sensor unit 120 in the set of sensor units 120 to trigger the set of sensors 122 to capture a time series of aerosols in the air passing through the sensor unit 120.

[0034] In one variation, the tracer detection system 100 may also include a display (such as integrated into the tracer dispenser 110 and / or one or more sensor units 120) configured to present results, prompts, and / or states (e.g., generated by a computer system). For example, the tracer dispenser 110 may include a display configured to: indicate a current state of the tracer dispenser 110, such as during, immediately before, immediately after, and / or during execution of a tracer release; present instructions corresponding to the current state to a user; present a set of airflow values ​​derived by the computer system for a previous tracer release, such as a current ventilation rate, a current aerosol clearance rate, a current exposure reduction rate, a current infection exposure risk, a current composite risk score; present prompts to modify and / or adjust environmental controls in the space; and / or present prompts to modify and / or adjust a ventilation system in the space.

[0035] Additionally and / or alternatively, in another variation, the tracer detection system 100 can interface with a user portal (e.g., a native application, a web application) executed on a user computing device (such as a smart phone, tablet, desktop computer, etc.) to communicate results, prompts, and / or system status to a user or user group associated with the facility.

[0036] In one variation, the tracer detection system 100 may include a set of airflow regulators (such as deployed proximal to, coupled to, or integrated into the tracer dispenser 110 and / or the sensor unit 120) configured to regulate the flow of aerosolized tracers in the environment. For example, the tracer detection system 100 may include a fan proximal to and / or integrated into the tracer dispenser 110 and configured to direct the flow of aerosolized tracers released by the tracer dispenser 110 in a particular direction, such as upward into the airflow and / or toward a particular sensor unit 120 or space within a facility containing the tracer dispenser 110. Additionally and / or alternatively, in another example, the tracer detection system 100 may include a fan that is proximate to the sensor unit 120 and / or integrated into the sensor unit 120 and is configured to: direct a flow of aerosolized tracer in the air to an inlet of the sensor unit 120; and / or promote mixing of the aerosol in the air surrounding the sensor unit 120.

[0037] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the sensor unit 120 and the tracer dispenser 110 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with each other. For example, the tracer dispenser 110 may be configured to automatically trigger the sensor unit 120 to initiate recording of time series tracer data via the set of sensors 122 in response to receiving a command from the computer system, such as in preparation for or in response to the dispensing of a tracer test load. Additionally and / or alternatively, in another example, the sensor unit 120 may be configured to automatically trigger the tracer dispenser 110 to dispense a tracer test load in response to receiving a command from the computer system and / or based on a dispensing schedule or protocol loaded onto a (local) controller 124 of the sensor unit 120, in preparation for or in response to starting to capture aerosol data by the set of sensors 122.

[0038] 4.1 Tracer Dispenser

[0039] The tracer detection system 100 may include one or more tracer dispensers 110 configured to be temporarily installed within an aerosol zone to dispense a known amount of a tracer (eg, salt, volatile organic compound, fluorescent material, genetic material) into the air within the aerosol zone.

[0040] In general, the tracer dispenser 110 (hereinafter referred to as "dispenser 110") may include: a reservoir 112 configured to store the tracer in a solution; an outlet fluidly coupled to the reservoir 112; and an actuator 116 configured to dispense the tracer test load from the reservoir 112 and through the outlet for release into the aerosol region. The dispenser 110 may also include a dispenser power supply 118 (e.g., a battery pack, an external power supply) configured to briefly power the actuator 116 for dispensing the tracer test load from the reservoir 112.

[0041] The dispenser 110 can be configured to output a known volume and a tracer test load including a known concentration of tracer, so that the system can compare the detected tracer level (e.g., tracer amount, tracer concentration) with the actual tracer level (e.g., based on the known volume and known concentration) in the tracer test load released by the dispenser 110. In addition, the dispenser 110 can be configured to intermittently release the tracer test load into the space, for example, at a target frequency and / or aligned with the collection of air samples by the sensor unit 120. The system can then use these tracers as markers in the air sample ingested by the sensor unit 120. In particular, the dispenser 110 can be configured to output a set of tracers configured to simulate the flow, distribution and / or dissipation of pathogens (e.g., pathogens output in human saliva) in the space. For example, the dispenser 110 can be configured to output a set of tracers, each of which is configured to simulate a specific pathogen in a set of pathogens detectable in the space. In one example, a tracer test load may include: a first tracer that exhibits a size within a first size range (e.g., a relatively small size), the first tracer matching a pathogen that exhibits a size within the first size range; and a second tracer that exhibits a size within a second size range (e.g., a relatively large size), the second tracer matching a pathogen that exhibits a size within the second size range; and a third tracer that exhibits a size within a third size range between the first and second size ranges (e.g., a relatively medium size). Thus, the system may utilize detection of these tracers, which may exhibit different flow or distribution patterns within a space based on their size, to better predict the flow or distribution of pathogens of different sizes within a space.

[0042] In one embodiment, the dispenser 110 is configured to receive a replaceable cartridge (i.e., reservoir 112) loaded with a set of tracer samples (e.g., high concentration tracer samples) to dispense a specific tracer from the set of tracer samples contained in the cartridge into the space. Over time, the cartridge can be replaced to replenish the supply of tracer samples that can be dispensed by the dispenser 110 and / or to supply different types of tracer samples to the dispenser 110.

[0043] In one example, the dispenser 110 can include: a box container; a loading container configured to prepare a tracer test load - comprising a known concentration of a tracer in a known volume of an aqueous solution (e.g., a saline solution); a fluid reservoir 112 configured to supply a metered volume of the aqueous solution to the loading container; and a sprayer (e.g., a nebulizer) fluidly coupled to the loading container and configured to release (airborne) aerosolized droplets of the tracer test load into the air in the space. In this embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to receive a replaceable (e.g., disposable) cartridge comprising: an array of tracer reservoirs 112s, each tracer reservoir 112 (e.g., a blister reservoir 112, a capsule, a compartment) loaded with a low volume, high concentration tracer test load comprising a tracer of a specific size (e.g., within a narrow size range and / or a variety of sizes), concentration, and / or property (e.g., a genetic property); and a connector configured to temporarily engage the cartridge container and position the array of tracer reservoirs 112s within the dispenser 110. The dispenser 110 can then selectively release one or more tracer test loads into the loading container for combination with a volume of aqueous solution to generate a tracer test load exhibiting a specific concentration and property of the tracer. The dispenser 110 can then release the tracer test load into the airspace via a sprayer. Thus, the dispenser 110 may be configured to adjust and / or track the tracer concentration, tracer characteristics, and / or tracer size of a dispensed tracer test load.

[0044] In one embodiment, the dispenser 110 is configured to dispense a tracer test load comprising a known concentration of salt in solution. In another embodiment, the dispenser 110 is configured to dispense a tracer test load comprising a known concentration of a volatile organic compound (e.g., IPA) in solution. In another embodiment, the dispenser 110 is configured to dispense a tracer test load comprising a known concentration of a fluorescent material in solution. In yet another embodiment, the dispenser 110 is configured to dispense a tracer test load comprising a known concentration of genetic material (e.g., DNA barcodes) in solution. However, the dispenser 110 can be configured to output a tracer test load comprising any type of detectable tracer and / or any combination of detectable tracers, such as any tracer particles, liquid tracers, tracer gases, genetic tracers comprising DNA (e.g., DNA barcodes), fluorescent tracers comprising fluorescent materials, salts, etc.

[0045] In one variation, the dispenser may further include a dispenser communication module 114 configured to receive commands from the computer system. In this variation, the actuator 116 may be configured to briefly release the tracer test load (including the aerosolized tracer in solution) from the reservoir 112 into the indoor environment based on the commands received by the dispenser communication module 114.

[0046] 4.1.1 Tracer types

[0047] Generally, the dispenser 110 may be configured to briefly dispense a tracer test load comprising a known concentration of a tracer (eg, an aerosol tracer, a tracer gas).

[0048] In one embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to temporarily dispense a tracer test load of a metered volume including an aerosol tracer (or "aerosolized tracer particles"). Specifically, in this embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 includes a dispenser 110 (which is temporarily installed (and / or configured to be temporarily installed) in a dispenser 110 position in an aerosol zone), the dispenser 110 including: a reservoir 112, which contains (or is configured to receive and store) a non-volatile tracer in a solution; and an actuator 116, which is configured to release the tracer test load (including a known or "test" concentration of aerosol tracer (e.g., derived from a non-volatile tracer in a solution in the reservoir 112)) from the reservoir 112 and into the aerosol zone (e.g., via an outlet). In particular, in this embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to aerosolize an amount of a non-volatile tracer in a solution (temporarily stored in the reservoir 112) for release into the surrounding air via the actuator 116. For example, the dispenser 110 can be configured to: store a volume of a tracer solution including a known concentration of salt particles (e.g., NaCl) in the solution; and release a metered volume of aerosolized salt particles into the air in an aerosol zone containing the dispenser 110.

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, in another embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to temporarily dispense a tracer test load comprising a metered volume of a tracer gas (or "gaseous tracer particles" or "gas tracer"). Specifically, in this embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 includes a dispenser 110 (which is temporarily installed (and / or configured to be temporarily installed) in a dispenser 110 position in an aerosol zone), the dispenser 110 including: a reservoir 112 containing (or configured to receive and store) a volatile tracer (e.g., a volatile organic compound) in a solution; and an actuator 116, which is configured to release the tracer test load (including a known or "test" concentration of tracer gas (e.g., derived from a volatile tracer in a solution in the reservoir 112)) from the reservoir 112 and into the aerosol zone (e.g., via an outlet). In particular, in this embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to release an amount of a volatile tracer in solution (temporarily stored in the reservoir 112) to be dispensed as a tracer gas into the surrounding air via the actuator 116. For example, the dispenser 110 can be configured to: store a volume of a tracer solution in solution, the tracer solution including a known concentration of a volatile tracer (e.g., isopropyl alcohol), such as including one or more volatile organic compounds; and release a metered volume of the tracer gas from the tracer solution into an aerosol region containing the dispenser 110.

[0050] Additionally or alternatively, in yet another embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to temporarily dispense a tracer test load comprising a metered volume of an aerosol tracer and a tracer gas. Specifically, in this embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 includes a dispenser 110 (which is temporarily installed (and / or configured to be temporarily installed) in a dispenser 110 position in an aerosol zone), the dispenser 110 including: a reservoir 112 containing (or configured to receive and store) a mixture of a volatile tracer and a non-volatile tracer in a solution; and an actuator 116, which is configured to release the tracer test load (comprising a first concentration of an aerosol tracer and a second concentration of a tracer gas) from the reservoir 112 and into the aerosol zone (e.g., via an outlet). In particular, in this embodiment, the dispenser 110 can be configured to release a certain amount of volatile and non-volatile tracers in solution (temporarily stored in the reservoir 112) for dispensing into the surrounding air as an aerosol tracer and a tracer gas via the actuator 116. For example, the dispenser 110 can be configured to: store a certain volume of a tracer solution, the tracer solution comprising a known concentration of salt (e.g., NaCl) and a known concentration of isopropyl alcohol (or "IPA") in solution; and release a metered volume of a tracer test load (including a salt aerosol (or "aerosolized salt") and a known concentration of IPA gas) into an aerosol zone containing the dispenser 110.

[0051] 4.2 Sensor Unit

[0052] The tracer detection system 100 may include one or more sensor units 120 disposed transiently within the aerosol region and configured to detect the presence of the tracer in the air at (eg, surrounding, ingested by) the sensor units 120 .

[0053] In one embodiment, the sensor unit 120 may include: a set of sensors 122 configured to detect the presence of a set of tracers in the air flowing through and / or passing through the sensor unit 120; a sensor communication module 124 configured to receive commands from a computer system, offload time series tracer data (e.g., time series concentration of tracers) to the computer system, and / or enable communication (e.g., via Wi-Fi) between the sensor unit 120 and a computer system (e.g., a remote computer system, a local server), each other sensor unit 120 in a network of sensor units 120 deployed in the space, and / or a set of dispensers 110 installed in the aerosol zone; a controller 124 configured to read signals output by the set of sensors 122 and interpret the time series amount (e.g., concentration) of tracers in the air at the sensor unit 120 based on these signals; and a power module 128 configured to power the controller 124, the first set of sensors 122, and / or the sensor communication module 124.

[0054] Typically, the sensor unit 120 is configured to be temporarily or semi-permanently installed in a specific environment (e.g., an enclosed space within a building), such as mounted on a bracket, fixed to a wall, and / or standing on the floor of a specific room. Alternatively, the sensor unit 120 can be coupled to a mobile device (e.g., a manual or autonomous cart, an autonomous aircraft) configured to transport the sensor unit 120 around a space or facility.

[0055] Once deployed (e.g., permanently or temporarily installed) in a particular space, sensor unit 120 can ingest air from that space over time and draw that air over a set of sensors 122 to detect tracers in air samples collected from the aerosol zone, such as in response to commands received by sensor communication module 124 and / or at a target frequency (e.g., once a day, once an hour, once a minute, continuously).

[0056] Additionally, the tracer detection system 100 may include multiple sensor units 120 installed throughout a particular facility (e.g., one per floor in an office building). For example, the system may include a docking station (e.g., a charging docking station) configured to accommodate a group of sensor units 120, such that each sensor unit 120 can be deployed from the docking station to a specific space (e.g., an office, classroom, store, bathroom) within a larger facility (e.g., an office building, a school, a mall, an airport).

[0057] In one variation, the sensor unit 120 includes a set of indicators, such as disposed on an exterior (e.g., housing) of the sensor unit 120. In this variation, the set of indicators can be configured to signal detection of a tracer (such as a particular tracer type) at the sensor unit 120 during performance of a tracer test. Thus, the sensor unit 120 can include a set of indicators to signal initial detection of a tracer at the sensor unit 120 and / or completion of a tracer test to an operator present in the bioaerosol zone during performance of a tracer test. For example, the sensor unit 120 can include a set of colorimetric sensors configured to output an optical signal representative of an amount of tracer of the tracer type detected at the set of colorimetric sensors.

[0058] 4.2.1 Sensor unit type

[0059] Generally, sensor unit 120 may be configured to briefly record time series tracer data representing tracer concentration in air at (eg, flowing over, around, or through) sensor unit 120 , such as in response to a command received by sensor communication module 124 to initiate a tracer test.

[0060] In one embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 includes a sensor unit 120 configured to sample air from an aerosol zone and detect aerosol particles present in the air, such as during a specific sampling period, for recording time - series aerosol data representative of the amount of aerosol (or "aerosol particles") detected in the air at the sensor unit 120. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 120 (e.g., a particle or aerosol detector) can be configured to draw air from the aerosol zone above a set of aerosol sensors 122 (e.g., particle sensors) to detect aerosol particles (including aerosol tracers released into the external environment by the dispenser 110) present in the air at the sensor unit 120. Specifically, the sensor unit 120 can include a set of aerosol sensors 122 configured to generate, at short intervals - such as at a fixed or targeted frequency (e.g., every 100 - millisecond interval, every 200 - millisecond interval, every 1 - second interval), signals representative of the amount of aerosol particles (e.g., aerosol) present in the air ingested by the sensor unit 120. Then, the controller 124 can: interpret time - series aerosol data representative of the amount (e.g., concentration, number) of aerosol particles detected in the air by the set of aerosol sensors 122 based on the signals read from the set of aerosol sensors 122; store the time - series aerosol data in a local memory 129 (e.g., a buffer); and / or offload the time - series aerosol data (such as continuously (near) in real - time and / or at a specific frequency from the local memory 129) to a computer system.

[0061] In another embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 includes a sensor unit 120 configured to sample air from an aerosol zone and detect tracer gas present in the air, for recording time - series gas data representative of the amount of tracer gas detected in the air at the sensor unit 120. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 120 can be configured to draw air from the aerosol zone above a set of gas sensors 122 (e.g., one or more gas sensors 122) to detect tracer gas (released into the external environment by the dispenser 110) present in the air at the sensor unit 120. In particular, the sensor unit 120 can include a set of gas sensors 122 configured to generate, at short intervals - such as at a fixed or targeted frequency (e.g., every 100 - millisecond interval, every 200 - millisecond interval, every 1 - second interval), signals representative of the amount of tracer gas present in the air ingested by the sensor unit 120. Then, the controller 124 can interpret time - series gas data representative of the amount (e.g., concentration, number) of tracer gas detected in the air by the set of gas sensors 122 based on the signals read from the set of gas sensors 122.

[0062] In yet another embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 includes a sensor unit 120 configured to sample air from an aerosol region and detect both aerosol particles and tracer gas present in the air for recording time series tracer data (including time series aerosol data and time series gas data) representing the amount of aerosol particles and tracer gas detected in the air at the sensor unit 120. In this embodiment, the sensor unit 120 may be configured to: draw air from the aerosol region over a set of aerosol sensors 122 (e.g., one or more particle sensors) for detecting aerosol particles present in the air at the sensor unit 120; and draw air from the aerosol region over a set of gas sensors 122 (e.g., one or more gas sensors 122) for detecting tracer gas present in the air at the sensor unit 120. The controller 124 can then: interpret time-series aerosol data representing the amount (e.g., concentration, number) of aerosol particles detected in the air by the group of aerosol sensors 122 based on the signals read from the group of aerosol sensors 122; and interpret time-series gas data representing the amount (e.g., concentration, number) of tracer gas detected in the air by the group of gas sensors 122 based on the signals read from the group of gas sensors 122.

[0063] 5. Tracer detection system deployment

[0064] Typically, the tracer detection system 100 may be temporarily deployed into an aerosol region to perform tracer testing in the aerosol region.

[0065] In particular, the tracer detection system 100, including a set of dispensers 110 and a set of sensor units 120, can be temporarily arranged in a target configuration within a specific aerosol zone (e.g., a room, an office, a corridor) for performing a tracer test during a test period. During the test period, the system can: trigger the release of a tracer test load (containing a known amount of aerosol tracer (e.g., aerosolized salt particles)) into the air in the aerosol zone through one or more of the dispensers 110 arranged in the aerosol zone; and record time series aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles in the air via a set of sensors 122 integrated into one or more of the sensor units 120 arranged in the aerosol zone. The system can then utilize this time series aerosol data collected during execution of the aerosol tracer test to derive insights related to airflow in the aerosol zone (e.g., removal rate and / or replacement rate, airflow direction) and / or flow of the aerosol tracer (e.g., decay rate, flow direction).

[0066] In one embodiment, the tracer detection system 100, including one or more dispensers 110 and one or more sensor units 120, can be briefly deployed to and installed in an aerosol zone during a test period of a target duration (e.g., 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours) for performing a tracer test and / or a series of tracer tests during the test period. Once installed in the aerosol zone, the system can perform the tracer test accordingly and interpret a set of airflow values ​​for the aerosol zone based on the time series aerosol data recorded during the execution of the tracer test. Then, after the tracer test or series of tracer tests are completed, the tracer detection system 100 can be retrieved from the aerosol zone, for example for installation in another aerosol zone within the facility and / or for storage elsewhere.

[0067] For example, an operator associated with an aerosol zone can position a dispenser 110 and a set of sensor units 120 (e.g., in a target configuration) in the aerosol zone in preparation for performing a tracer test. Once deployed within the aerosol zone, the system can: initiate a test period of a target duration (e.g., 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours); perform one or more tracer tests during the test period - including release of a tracer test load by the dispenser 110 and recording of time series aerosol data by the sensor unit 120; and output the results of each tracer test in (near) real time, such as airflow values ​​(e.g., ventilation range, aerosol reduction rate, air speed and / or direction), risk levels associated with one or more pathogens, effectiveness of various interventions or environmental controls (e.g., HVAC settings, occupancy levels, activity levels).

[0068] In one example, the system can: trigger the allocation of a tracer test load to initiate a tracer test; derive a tracer signal from time series aerosol data collected during execution of the tracer test; derive a set of airflow values ​​representing aerosol flow and / or movement in the aerosol zone based on the tracer signal; and report these airflow values ​​and / or additional insights to managers associated with the aerosol zone in (near) real time. In this example, the system can thus obtain deep insights into the flow and movement of aerosols in an aerosol zone via execution of a (relatively) brief tracer test (e.g., a 10 minute test, a 20 minute test, a 1 hour test).

[0069] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 - such as including a set of dispensers 110 (e.g., one or more dispensers 110) and a set of sensor units 120 (e.g., one or more sensor units 120) - can be deployed to a facility for permanent or semi-permanent installation within one or more aerosol zones within the facility. In this embodiment, once initially installed, the system can periodically perform tracer testing within the aerosol zone and / or facility as described above, such as based on a distribution schedule (or "testing schedule") defined for the facility and / or in response to environmental changes detected within the facility.

[0070] 5.1 Tracer detection system: configuration

[0071] Generally, as described above, the tracer detection system 100 may be set up in a target configuration within an aerosol zone in preparation for performing a tracer test.

[0072] For example, the tracer detection system 100 can be deployed in a target configuration that defines: the number and / or arrangement (defining a set of dispenser 110 positions) of a set of dispensers 110 (e.g., one or more dispensers 110) temporarily installed in an aerosol zone for performing tracer testing; and the number and / or arrangement (defining a set of sensor unit 120 positions) of a set of sensor units 120 (e.g., one or more sensor units 120) temporarily installed in an aerosol zone for performing tracer testing.

[0073] 5.1.1 Tracer detection system configuration: 1 dispenser + 1 sensor unit

[0074] Generally, as described above, the tracer detection system 100 may be deployed in a target configuration within an aerosol region in preparation for performing a tracer test.

[0075] In one embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 includes: a first dispenser 110, arranged at a first dispenser 110 position within the aerosol zone, configured to briefly dispense a tracer test load containing a known concentration of aerosol tracer particles; and a first sensor unit 120, arranged in a first unit position within the aerosol zone and configured to briefly capture time series aerosol data indicating the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the first dispenser 110 position.

[0076] In particular, the first dispenser 110 can be arranged in a first dispenser 110 position that is offset from the first dispenser 110 position by a distance that falls within a target distance range. For example, to install the tracer detection system 100 in preparation for a tracer test, a user (e.g., a human operator) can: position the first dispenser 110 in a first dispenser 110 position (e.g., defined by a computer system and / or manually selected by an operator), such as in the center of an aerosol zone and / or a position predicted to exhibit minimal variation or turbulence in the airflow (e.g., relative to the aerosol zone); position the first sensor unit 120 in a first unit position, such as predicted to intersect a flow path of an aerosolized tracer released from the first dispenser 110; and confirm the connection (e.g., wired or wireless) of the first dispenser 110 and / or the first sensor unit 120 to the computer system. The operator may then initiate the tracer test, for example, by manually engaging the actuator 116 of the first dispenser 110 and / or by triggering an initiation within a web or local application executed on the user's computing device and connected to the computer system.

[0077] Specifically, the operator can position the first sensor unit 120 at a first unit position that defines a distance within a target distance range defined for an aerosol zone (e.g., between 1 foot and 2 feet, between 6 feet and 8 feet, between 1 meter and 2 meters) from the position of the first dispenser 110. By thus positioning the first sensor unit 120 at a specific distance (within the target distance range) from the first dispenser 110, the first sensor unit 120 can be configured to ingest and detect aerosolized tracer released by the first dispenser 110 in a tracer test load that exhibits an aerosol velocity within a threshold deviation of the air velocity at the first sensor unit 120 and exhibits a relatively high concentration, thereby: minimizing errors in the quantification of the aerosolized tracer at the first sensor unit 120; and maximizing the signal-to-noise ratio by increasing the amount of aerosolized tracer present at the first sensor unit 120.

[0078] For example, the first dispenser 110 can be configured to release a tracer test load (including aerosolized tracers) into the aerosol zone such that the aerosolized tracers exhibit an initial aerosol velocity that exceeds the air velocity in the aerosol zone. Thus, the first sensor unit 120 can be located at least a minimum distance from the first dispenser 110 so as to be able to reduce the aerosol velocity prior to detection such that upon detection, the aerosolized tracers exhibit an aerosol velocity within a threshold deviation of the air, thereby enabling accurate detection of the amount of aerosolized tracers at the first sensor unit 120. Furthermore, in this example, the first sensor unit 120 can be located within a maximum distance from the first dispenser 110 so as to limit the dispersion of the aerosolized tracers within the aerosol zone prior to detection at the first sensor unit 120, thereby increasing the detectability of the aerosolized tracers at the first sensor unit 120.

[0079] Additionally, to further increase detectability of aerosolized tracer at first sensor unit 120 , an operator may position first sensor unit 120 at a first unit position defining an orientation relative to first dispenser 110 position that corresponds to the direction of aerosol flow from first dispenser 110 .

[0080] In one variation, before installing the first sensor unit 120 in the aerosol zone, a user may manually perform a directionality test in the aerosol zone in order to predict a first unit position of the first sensor unit 120. For example, the user may: position the first sensor unit 120 in the first unit position; manually trigger the release of a tracer test load (e.g., within a shortened dispensing period); and visually inspect the flow of aerosolized tracer in the tracer test load outward from the first dispenser 110 to identify a predominant direction and / or path of aerosol flow from the first dispenser 110. The operator may then position the first sensor unit 120 at a first unit position that intersects the path of aerosol flow from the first dispenser 110. By positioning the first sensor unit 120 along this path of the aerosol flow, the first sensor unit 120 can be configured to: initially ingest aerosolized tracers dispensed in the tracer test load within a minimum duration from the initial release of these aerosolized tracers from the first dispenser 110, thereby reducing the detection time after dispensing; and detect the maximum amount (e.g., concentration) of aerosolized tracers via the group of sensors 122 at an initial detection time (such as before the increased dissipation of aerosolized tracers within the aerosol zone), thereby increasing the signal-to-noise ratio of the resulting tracer signal.

[0081] 5.1.2 Tracer detection system configuration: 1 dispenser + multiple sensor units

[0082] Additionally or alternatively, in another embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 may include: a first dispenser 110, which is arranged in a first dispenser 110 position within an aerosol zone; and a group of sensor units 120, which are temporarily arranged in a group of unit positions (defining a target arrangement around the first dispenser 110), and are configured to temporarily capture time-series aerosol data representing the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the group of dispenser 110 positions.

[0083] In particular, in this embodiment, the tracer detection system 100 may include: a first dispenser 110, which is temporarily arranged in a first dispenser 110 position; a first sensor unit 120, which is temporarily arranged in a first unit position in the aerosol region; and a second sensor unit 120, which is temporarily arranged in a second unit position in the aerosol region. In addition, the tracer detection system 100 may include additional sensor units 120 arranged in the aerosol region, such as including a third sensor unit 120 temporarily arranged in a third unit position in the aerosol region, a fourth sensor unit 120 temporarily arranged in a fourth unit position in the aerosol region, and the like.

[0084] In one example, the first dispenser 110 can be arranged in a first dispenser 110 position that defines a substantial center of the room, such as within a threshold distance of the center of the room. The set of sensor units 120 can include: a first sensor unit 120 arranged in a first unit position that is offset from the first dispenser 110 position by approximately (e.g., within 5%, within 20%) a first distance; a second sensor unit 120 arranged in a second unit position that is offset from the first dispenser 110 position by approximately a first distance and from the first unit position by approximately a second distance; a third sensor unit 120 arranged in a third unit position that is offset from the first dispenser 110 position by approximately a first distance and from the second unit position by approximately a second distance; and a fourth sensor unit 120 arranged in a fourth unit position that is offset from the first dispenser 110 position by approximately a first distance, from the third unit position by approximately a second distance, and from the first unit position by approximately a second distance.

[0085] Thus, the first, second, third, and fourth sensor units 120 may be arranged in a square configuration around the dispenser 110 in the first dispenser 110 position arranged in the center of the room - each sensor unit 120 being offset from each adjacent sensor unit 120 by approximately the second distance.

[0086] In one variation, the tracer detection system 100 can be arranged in a target configuration that defines a number of sensor units 120 corresponding to a size (e.g., area, volume) of an aerosol zone. For example, the tracer detection system 100 can include a first dispenser 110 and a group of sensor units 120 that are temporarily arranged in a target configuration within an aerosol zone that defines a set of discrete areas of substantially equal size (e.g., volume area, cross-sectional area) (e.g., within 5%, 10%, 20%). In this example, each sensor unit 120 in the group of sensor units 120 can be temporarily installed in a specific discrete area in the group of discrete areas, such that the target configuration defines a number of sensor units 120 in the group of sensor units 120 that corresponds to the number of discrete areas in the group of discrete areas.

[0087] 5.2 Variant: Target Configuration Calculation

[0088] In one variation, the system may: automatically calculate a target configuration of the first sensor unit 120 and the first dispenser 110 within the aerosol zone; and prompt the operator to position the first sensor unit 120 and the first dispenser 110 in the target configuration to prepare for the tracer test. For example, the system may: access a set of zone characteristics defined for the aerosol zone, such as a set of sizes, total volumes, layouts, one or more activity types associated with the aerosol zone (e.g., office work, exercise, singing, eating), etc.; access a set of environmental controls defined for the aerosol zone (e.g., current and / or historical environmental controls), such as current or average occupancy levels, duration of human occupancy, a set of HVAC settings and / or ventilation settings, etc.; and, based on the target distance range, a set of zone characteristics, and / or a set of environmental controls, calculate a target configuration (defining the first dispenser 110 position and the first unit position) for deploying the tracer detection system 100 within the aerosol zone.

[0089] Additionally and / or alternatively, in this embodiment, the system may: calculate the first dispenser 110 position based on the set of zone characteristics and / or the set of environmental controls; generate a prompt to perform a directionality test in the aerosol zone before installing the first sensor unit 120 in the aerosol zone; send the prompt to the operator; and, in response to confirming the performance of the directionality test, prompt the user to specify the direction of the aerosol flow from the first dispenser 110. Based on the direction and the first dispenser 110 position, the system may then: calculate the first unit position; generate a prompt to position the first sensor unit 120 at the first unit position; and send the prompt to the operator.

[0090] 5.3 Variant: Setting Validation

[0091] In another variation, the system may verify the setup configuration of the tracer detection system 100 within the aerosol zone prior to performing the tracer test. For example, the system may: generate a prompt confirming the deployment of the first dispenser 110 and the first sensor unit 120 in the aerosol zone; and transmit the prompt to an operator associated with the aerosol zone, such as via a mobile device (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet) accessed by the operator or via a display connected to and / or integrated into the first dispenser 110 and / or the first sensor unit 120. Then, in response to receiving confirmation of the deployment from the operator, the system may: access a first geographic location of the first sensor unit 120 within the aerosol zone (e.g., via RSS-based positioning technology); access a second geographic location of the dispenser 110 within the aerosol zone; and calculate a distance between the first geographic location and the second geographic location. Then, in response to the distance falling within a target distance range defined for the aerosol zone, the system may: verify the setup configuration; and enable the performance of the tracer test in the aerosol zone. Alternatively, in response to the distance falling outside the target distance range defined for the aerosol zone, the system can: generate a prompt to adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) the distance between the dispenser 110 and the sensor unit 120; and send the prompt to the operator. The system can then repeat the process until the distance falls within the target distance range.

[0092] 5.4 Test setup data

[0093] In one embodiment, the system can access a set of setup data representing the setup configuration implemented during the execution of a tracer test in an aerosol zone. In particular, in this implementation, the system can: access a set of test setup data - such as including dispenser 110 and / or sensor configuration data, characteristics of the aerosol zone (e.g., size, average occupancy level, locations of various objects in the aerosol zone), a set of current HVAC settings employed by an HVAC system installed in the aerosol zone, etc. - captured prior to the execution of a tracer test in the aerosol zone; write this set of test setup data into a test data packet generated for that particular tracer test and store it in a zone profile generated for the aerosol zone.

[0094] For example, the system can: access a set of zone characteristics defined for the aerosol zone, such as size (e.g., area, volume, height, width, length), number and / or location of windows, vents, doorways, etc., current occupancy level; access the arrangement (or "configuration") of the set of sensor units 120 and / or the set of dispensers 110 in the aerosol zone, such as defining the position of each dispenser 110 and / or sensor unit 120 in the aerosol zone, the lateral and / or longitudinal distance between each dispenser 110 and each sensor unit 120, the lateral and / or longitudinal distance between the sensor unit 120 and each other sensor unit 120 installed in the aerosol zone; and / or access a set of historical and / or current conditions in the aerosol zone, such as including HVAC settings assigned to the aerosol zone (e.g., ventilation rate), occupancy level, activity type (e.g., exercising, working, eating, talking, singing).

[0095] In one example, the system may access an image (e.g., a 2D or 3D image) of the aerosol zone, such as an image captured via a mobile device accessed by an operator, and extract a set of test setup data based on features detected in the image. Additionally or alternatively, in another example, the system may access a set of laser sensor data, such as laser sensor data manually captured by an operator inspecting the aerosol zone via a laser sensor device and / or by a laser sensor mounted on the sensor unit 120 and / or the dispenser 110, and extract a set of test setup data based on the set of laser sensor data. Additionally or alternatively, in yet another example, the system may prompt the operator to manually upload a set of setup data defined for the aerosol zone.

[0096] 6. Tracer Testing: Aerosol Data Collection

[0097] Box S110 of method S100 records: during a first tracer test performed within a first test period, a first time series of aerosol data is recorded via a group of sensors 122 integrated in a first sensor unit 120 briefly arranged in a first unit position in the aerosol zone, which represents the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the first unit position during the first test period.

[0098] Generally, in block S110, the sensor unit 120 may access a set of sensors 122 (e.g., a set of particle sensors) configured to signal the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the set of sensors 122 and record aerosol data at a series of target time increments. Specifically, the computer system may trigger the first sensor unit 120 to: initiate recording of time-series aerosol data via the set of sensors 122 at a first time during a first test period; and continue recording time-series aerosol data for the remainder of the first test period.

[0099] In one embodiment, the computer system may return a command to the sensor unit 120, such as via the sensor communication module 124, to begin recording a time series of aerosol data via the set of sensors 122. For example, in response to receiving confirmation from an operator (e.g., via a user's mobile device) to initiate a tracer test, the computer system may: generate a command to initiate a tracer test; and send the command to the sensor unit 120 via the sensor communication module 124. The sensor unit 120 may then: receive the command from the computer system (e.g., via the sensor communication module 124); trigger the set of sensors 122 to begin recording time series aerosol data at a fixed sampling frequency (e.g., 100 microsecond intervals, 200 microsecond intervals, 1 second intervals); and offload the time series of aerosol data to the computer system, e.g., in real time or in the form of intermittent data packets.

[0100] In this embodiment, the sensor unit 120 can continuously and / or semi-continuously record aerosol data, such as recording aerosol data at intervals of every 100 milliseconds, 200 milliseconds, or 1 second. Additionally or alternatively, such as before the completion of the dispensing period, the sensor unit 120 can selectively sample the aerosol data intermittently (e.g., once every 1 second interval, once every 5 second interval, once every 30 second interval) to reduce power consumption and minimize data files. In each of these embodiments, the sensor unit 120 can then transmit the aerosol data to the computer system at a specific recording frequency (e.g., once per second, once every 15 second interval, once every 30 second interval).

[0101] In particular, the sensor unit 120 can: record a time series of aerosol data as described above; write the time series of aerosol data to local storage on the sensor unit 120; and upload the aerosol data to the computer system (e.g., via the sensor communication module 124) at a target recording frequency. In general, the sensor unit 120 can record aerosol data packets of a fixed duration (e.g., 100 milliseconds, 1 second, 15 seconds, 1 minute); time stamp each aerosol data packet; and wirelessly transmit each data packet to the computer system. The computer system can then combine a series of data packets received within a particular time window into a single file of aerosol data. The computer system can use the timestamp associated with each data packet to assemble a time series of data packets representing time series aerosol data collected over the entire duration of the first test period.

[0102] 6.1 Background period

[0103] In one embodiment, at the beginning of a test period, the computer system can trigger the sensor unit 120 to begin recording time series aerosol data during a background period prior to a dispensing period corresponding to release of the tracer test load by the dispenser 110. The computer system can then use the time series aerosol data to account for background or "baseline" levels (e.g., concentration, number) of aerosol particles in the aerosol zone, such as in the absence of aerosol particles being added to the aerosol zone by dispensing the tracer test load.

[0104] In this embodiment, during the test period, the sensor unit 120 may record a time series of aerosol data (representing the concentration of aerosol particles in the air) for the duration of the entire test period. Specifically, the system may: record a first subset of the time series of aerosol data via a set of sensors 122 (e.g., aerosol sensor 122) integrated in the sensor unit 120 during a background period prior to the dispensing period (e.g., during the test period); and derive a baseline concentration of aerosol particles present in the aerosol region during the first test period based on the first subset of the first time series of aerosol data.

[0105] The sensors can then continue to record the time series of aerosol data throughout the test period to: capture a second subset of the time series of aerosol data via a set of sensors 122 during a decay period (e.g., a target duration) after the allocation period; and derive a tracer concentration curve for the tracer test based on the second subset of the time series of aerosol data and the baseline concentration.

[0106] 6.2 Allocation period

[0107] Box S120 of method S100 records: during a first dispensing period within a first test period, a dispenser 110 briefly arranged in a dispenser 110 position in the aerosol zone (offset from the first unit position by a target distance) is triggered to release a first tracer load into the air in the aerosol zone, the first tracer load including a test concentration of aerosol tracer particles.

[0108] In general, the computer system can define a set of release parameters for a particular tracer test and / or for a particular aerosol zone, such as: the duration of a dispensing period corresponding to the release of a tracer test load; the start time of the dispensing period; the end time of the dispensing period; the aerosolization rate of the tracer dispensed from the reservoir 112 into the ambient air in the aerosol zone; the target ejection force for releasing the tracer test load from the dispenser 110; the target atomization jet distance; the amount (e.g., concentration, number) of tracer released in the tracer test load; the type of tracer (e.g., size, reactivity, class, specific molecule or particle); etc. The system can then record the set of release parameters implemented for the tracer test for combination with the time series aerosol data collected during the execution of the tracer test. For example, the system can store the set of release parameters for a particular tracer test in a test container in a set of test containers corresponding to the execution of the particular tracer test in the aerosol zone.

[0109] In one embodiment, the computer system may return a command to the dispenser 110 (such as via the dispenser 110 communication module) to release the tracer test load within the distribution period according to a set of release parameters defined for that particular tracer test and / or that particular aerosol zone. In one example, in response to confirming the setup of the aerosol detection system 100 in the aerosol zone, the computer system may automatically return a command to the dispenser 110 to perform the release of the tracer test load according to the set of release parameters. In another example, in response to receiving a request to initiate a tracer test from a user computing device accessed by an operator or any other user associated with the aerosol zone or a facility containing the aerosol zone, the computer system may return a command to the dispenser 110 to perform the release of the tracer test load according to the set of release parameters.

[0110] For example, the dispenser 110 may include a reservoir 112 loaded with salt particles (e.g., NaCl particles) in a solution, such as a replaceable cartridge and / or a fixed reservoir 112. To initiate a tracer test, the computer system may return a command to the dispenser 110 communication module to release the tracer test load (including aerosolized salt particles in solution) during a dispensing period according to a set of release parameters including a start time of the dispensing period (e.g., an initial dispensing time) and a duration of the dispensing period. Then, at the specified start time, the actuator 116 of the dispenser 110 may aerosolize a metered volume of salt particles in solution drawn from the reservoir 112 to be released into the air in the aerosol zone at a specific aerosolization rate over the duration of the dispensing period.

[0111] Additionally and / or alternatively, in another embodiment, an operator may manually select a user control (e.g., a button, a switch) disposed on the dispenser 110 that is configured to trigger initiation of a tracer test. In this embodiment, the computer system may: receive a query for release parameters from the dispenser 110; access a set of release parameters defined for a tracer test in the aerosol zone; and return a command to the dispenser 110 to perform release of the tracer test load according to the set of release parameters. Additionally and / or alternatively, the computer system may preload the set of release parameters onto the dispenser 110.

[0112] 7. Tracer Signal Analysis

[0113] Block S130 of method S100 recites deriving a first tracer concentration curve representing changes in concentration of aerosol tracer particles at the location of the first sensor unit 120 during a first test period based on the first time series of aerosol data and the test concentration.

[0114] Typically, during execution of a tracer test, the system may: access time series aerosol data from the sensor unit 120 at a target recording rate as described above; and record the time series aerosol data into a test container in a set of test containers generated for the tracer test. The system may then: utilize a set of release parameters defined for the tracer test to: identify a target sampling window (or "decay period") within a test period corresponding to the tracer signal, e.g., defining an initial time and a final time; and derive a tracer signal (such as represented by a tracer concentration curve) based on the time series aerosol data collected during the target sampling window.

[0115] Specifically, the system can: trigger the recording of a first time series of aerosol data via a set of sensors 122 integrated into the sensor unit 120 during the duration of the test period, the first time series of aerosol data representing the amount of aerosolized particles in the ambient air taken in by the first sensor unit 120 during the test period; and trigger the release of a tracer test load into the ambient air in the aerosol zone during a dispensing period within the test period according to a first set of release parameters, the first set of release parameters including an initial dispensing time corresponding to the start of the dispensing period, the duration of the dispensing period and / or a dispensing rate representing the rate at which the aerosolized tracer is released from the dispenser 110 during the test period. Then, in response to completion of the test period, the system can: calculate a target sampling window defining an initial sampling time and a final sampling time based on the first set of release parameters; extract a second time series of aerosol data collected during the target sampling window from the first time series of aerosol data; and derive a tracer concentration curve based on the second time series of aerosol data, the tracer concentration curve representing a change in the amount of aerosol tracer in the air detected at the sensor unit 120 during the sampling window between the initial sampling time and the final sampling time.

[0116] In one embodiment, the system can define a target sampling window to align with a decay (e.g., exponential decay) period of the amount of tracer of the tracer type detected at the sensor unit 120. Specifically, in this embodiment, the system can derive a tracer signal, such as a decay curve representing a decrease (e.g., exponential decay) in the amount of a first type of tracer over the target sampling window based on the time series aerosol data collected by the sensor unit 120 during the target sampling window, such that: the initial sampling time corresponds to the maximum amount (e.g., concentration, amount) of the tracer of the tracer type; and the final sampling time corresponds to the minimum amount or "baseline" amount of the tracer of the tracer type. Thus, the system can derive a tracer signal or "curve" (e.g., decay curve, calibration curve) that is configured to model the change in the amount (e.g., concentration, amount) of a tracer of a particular tracer type over time throughout the target sampling window. For example, the system can derive an exponential decay curve that represents the change in the amount (e.g., concentration) of the tracer of the tracer type over time during the target sampling window.

[0117] In one example, a system may: access a baseline amount of a tracer of a tracer type defined for an aerosol zone, such as a baseline amount of a tracer recorded during an initial time period prior to an allocation period within a test period and / or derived for the aerosol zone during one or more previous test periods; estimate, at each time point represented in a time series of bioaerosol data, an amount of a tracer of the tracer type derived from a tracer test load based on a difference between the amount of tracer recorded at the time point and the baseline amount of the tracer; identify a maximum amount of tracer of the first tracer type at a first time in the time series aerosol data; identify a final amount of the tracer that corresponds to the baseline amount and / or is within a threshold deviation of the baseline amount at a second time after the first time in the time series aerosol data; and select a target sampling window spanning from the first time to the second time. The system can then: separate the time series of aerosol data collected during a selected sampling window; and utilize statistical models and / or linear regression techniques (such as by implementing a log-linear fit) to derive a tracer decay curve (i.e., a tracer signal) that represents or models the decay over time of the amount of tracer of the tracer type detected by the sensor unit 120 during the sampling window.

[0118] In another embodiment, the system may: access a set of predefined rules for selecting a target sampling window in the aerosol region; access a set of release parameters defined for the tracer test; and select the sampling window based on the set of predefined rules and the set of release parameters.

[0119] 7.1 Background period + allocation period + release period + decay period

[0120] In one embodiment, the system may identify discrete subsets of the time series of aerosol data captured by the sensor unit 120 that correspond to different time periods within the test period.

[0121] In particular, in this embodiment, the system can identify: a first subset of the time series of aerosol data, which corresponds to a background period spanning between a first time and a second time before the tracer test load is dispensed into the aerosol zone; a second subset of the time series of aerosol data, which corresponds to the dispensing period (during the dispensing period, the dispenser 110 releases the tracer test load into the aerosol zone), which is after the background period and spans between the second time and a third time; a third subset of the time series of aerosol data, which corresponds to a settling period after the dispensing period, spanning between a third time and a fourth time and having a target duration (e.g., 1 minute, 5 minutes, 15 minutes); and a fourth subset of the time series of aerosol data, which corresponds to a decay period (corresponding to the removal of tracer aerosol from the aerosol zone), which is after the settling period and spans between a fourth time and a fifth time after the fourth time.

[0122] The system can then: derive a baseline concentration of aerosol particles present in the aerosol zone during the first test period based on a first subset of the time series of aerosol data captured during the background period; and derive a tracer concentration profile based on a third subset of the time series of aerosol data captured during the decay period and the baseline concentration. In particular, the system can separate the time series data recorded during the decay period from the time series aerosol data recorded during the dispensing and / or settling periods to minimize noise in the aerosol data resulting from fluctuations in aerosol concentration during and / or immediately following dispensing of the tracer test load as the air in the aerosol zone returns to equilibrium.

[0123] Additionally, the system may utilize the derived baseline concentration of aerosol particles to normalize the concentration of aerosol tracers represented in the time series of aerosol data, thereby accounting for aerosol particles naturally present in the aerosol zone.

[0124] 7.2 Airflow value

[0125] Block S140 of method S100 states: Based on the characteristics of the first tracer concentration curve, derive a first airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol region during the first test period. In general, the system can utilize the characteristics of the tracer concentration curve (derived from the time series aerosol data collected by the sensor unit 120 during the decay period) to derive insights related to the flow of airflow and / or tracers (e.g., particles or aerosol tracers, tracer gases) in the aerosol region.

[0126] In one embodiment, the system may: extract the area defined by the tracer concentration curve (the area under the curve or "AUC"); and derive the volumetric airflow rate of the aerosol region based on the area and the known volume of the aerosol region. Specifically, in this embodiment, the system may implement Figure 3A-3C The process described in is used to derive an airflow value (eg, ventilation range) that represents the removal of air (including particles and / or gas) from the aerosol region.

[0127] Additionally, in one embodiment, the system may derive a composite airflow value for the aerosol zone based on a set of tracer concentration curves derived from time series aerosol data collected at each sensor unit 120 in the set of sensor units 120 arranged around the dispenser 110 in the aerosol zone.

[0128] For example, during a test period, the system may: record a first time series of aerosol data via a first group of sensors 122 in a first sensor unit 120 integrated in a first unit position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone, the first time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the first unit position; record a second time series of aerosol data via a second group of sensors 122 in a second sensor unit 120 integrated in a second unit position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone, the second time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the second unit position; and, during a dispensing period, trigger a dispenser 110 in a dispenser 110 position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone to release a first tracer load into the air in the aerosol zone, the first tracer load including a test concentration of aerosol tracer particles. The system can then: derive a first tracer concentration curve representing the concentration change of aerosol tracer particles at a first unit position based on the first time series of aerosol data and the test concentration; derive a second tracer concentration curve representing the concentration change of aerosol tracer particles at the second unit position based on the second time series of aerosol data and the test concentration; and derive a (composite) airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period based on the first time series of aerosol data, the second time series of aerosol data and the test concentration.

[0129] 7.3 Tracer test results

[0130] Block S150 of method S100 recites interpreting a first result of the first tracer test based on a difference between the first airflow value and a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone.

[0131] In one embodiment, the system may: access a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone, such as a target airflow value calculated based on a set of environmental characteristics of the aerosol zone (e.g., size, occupancy, activity type or level); and in response to the airflow value corresponding to the target airflow value (e.g., matching a certain value, exceeding a threshold), interpret the result of the tracer test as "pass". Alternatively, in response to the airflow value being different from the target airflow value, the system may interpret the result of the tracer test as "fail".

[0132] For example, in response to interpreting a first volumetric airflow rate for an aerosol zone for a first tracer test, the system may: access a target volumetric airflow rate defined for the aerosol zone, such as based on the volume of the aerosol zone, the average or current occupancy level, and / or the type of activity associated with the aerosol zone (e.g., exercising, eating, sitting, standing, singing, working); and in response to the target volumetric airflow rate exceeding the volumetric airflow rate, interpret the result of the tracer test as a failure. Alternatively, in response to the volumetric airflow rate exceeding and / or matching the target volumetric airflow rate, the system may interpret the result of the tracer test as a pass.

[0133] In another embodiment, the system may: access a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone; characterize a difference between the target airflow value and the (observed) airflow value; and, in response to the difference exceeding a threshold difference, interpret the result of the tracer test as "fail". Alternatively, in response to the difference being below a threshold difference, the system may interpret the result of the tracer test as "pass". Additionally or alternatively, in another embodiment, the system may access a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone; characterize a difference between the target airflow value and the (observed) airflow value; and calculate a result score (such as a quantitative or qualitative score) representing the difference between the target airflow value and the (observed) airflow value.

[0134] 7.3.1 Result Report

[0135] In one variation, the system may generate a report for the tracer test and send the report to a user (e.g., a manager, operator, administrator) affiliated with the aerosol zone. In particular, in this variation, the system may: generate a first report including a first airflow value and a first result; store the first report in a zone profile associated with the aerosol zone; and send a copy of the first report to the user (e.g., via a mobile device of the user).

[0136] Furthermore, in this variation, the system may append in the report a first set of setup data representing a setup configuration defined by the dispenser 110 in the dispenser 110 position and a set of sensor units 120 installed in a set of unit positions (such as including a first sensor unit 120 arranged in a first unit position, a second sensor unit 120 arranged in a second unit position, etc.). Later, in preparation for a second tracer test in the aerosol zone, the system may then access the first set of setup data stored in the zone profile; generate a prompt to install the dispenser 110 and the set of sensor units 120 (such as including a first sensor unit 120, a second sensor unit 120, etc.) within the aerosol zone according to the setup configuration; and send the prompt to the user. Thus, the system may facilitate repeatability of data in tracer tests performed in the aerosol zone by limiting variations in tracer detection due to modifications of the setup configuration.

[0137] 7.4 Air Removal Path

[0138] Generally, the system can utilize airflow values ​​derived for the aerosol zone during performance of a tracer test, such as ventilation ranges (e.g., volumetric airflow rates), to derive insights related to various air removal paths (or "removal paths") employed in the aerosol zone.

[0139] In particular, the system can implement the above-described methods and techniques to derive airflow values ​​representing the removal of air and / or particles from the aerosol zone, e.g., via a set of removal paths including filtration, ventilation, sedimentation, capture, etc. Thus, based on the airflow values ​​and / or results associated with the airflow values ​​(e.g., whether the airflow values ​​correspond to target airflow values ​​defined for the aerosol zone), the system can characterize the effectiveness of these removal paths in the aerosol zone and / or recommend a pattern for deploying these removal paths in the aerosol zone.

[0140] For example, the system may: perform a first tracer test of the aerosol zone during a first test period, as described above; access a first aerosol removal mode, the first aerosol removal mode defining a first set of aerosol removal paths (such as including a first filtration path and a first ventilation path) to be employed in the aerosol zone during the first test period; and, in response to interpreting the result of the first tracer test as a "failure" (such as in response to deriving an airflow value (e.g., ventilation rate or volume flow) that is below a target value), suspend verification of the first aerosol removal mode in the aerosol zone. The system may then: generate a notification for implementing a second aerosol removal mode, the second aerosol removal mode defining a second set of aerosol removal paths (such as including a second filtration path and a second ventilation path) to be used in the aerosol zone during a time period prior to the first test period; and send the notification to a user (e.g., an operator, manager, administrator) affiliated with the aerosol zone.

[0141] Subsequently, the system may: perform a second tracer test of the aerosol zone during a second test period (of target duration) following the first test period and time period; interpret a second airflow value based on the time series aerosol data collected during the second tracer test; and in response to the second airflow value exceeding the target airflow value, interpret the result of the second tracer test as a pass. The system may then: access a second aerosol removal mode (defining a second set of aerosol removal paths) employed in the aerosol zone during the second test period; and in response to interpreting the result of the second tracer test as a pass, verify the second aerosol removal mode of the aerosol zone. The system may then: generate a second notification to maintain implementation of the second aerosol removal mode in the aerosol zone; and send the notification to a user affiliated with the aerosol zone.

[0142] In another example, the system may: perform a first tracer test of the aerosol zone during a first test period to derive a first airflow value for the aerosol zone, as described above; and based on a first result, such as in response to the first airflow value falling below a target airflow value, identify a first removal path from a set of removal paths, the first removal path being configured to drive the first airflow value toward the target airflow value; generate a prompt to implement the first removal path in the aerosol zone; and send the prompt to a user affiliated with the aerosol zone. Then, during a second test period of target duration after the first test period, the system may: perform a second tracer test of the aerosol zone during the second test period to derive a second airflow value for the aerosol zone; and characterize the effectiveness of the first removal path in the aerosol zone based on a first difference between the first airflow value and the second airflow value.

[0143] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the system may access a set of environmental controls (such as including HVAC settings, occupancy levels, activity levels or types, etc.) for the aerosol zone, such as before, during, and / or after performing a tracer test within a test period. In this embodiment, the system may utilize the results of the tracer test (such as a set of aerosol values ​​derived from time series aerosol data collected during performance of the tracer test) to: characterize the effectiveness of current environmental controls in the aerosol zone; and / or recommend modifications to current environmental controls to, such as to a manager affiliated with the aerosol zone.

[0144] For example, during the execution of the tracer test within the test period, the system can record a first time series of environmental controls for a first aerosol zone in the facility, such as: a first time series of occupancy levels (e.g., number of occupants, density of occupants) in the first aerosol zone; a first time series of occupancy durations (e.g., duration spent by each occupant in the aerosol zone); a first time series of HVAC data (e.g., temperature, humidity, air filtration rate) in the first aerosol zone; and a first time series of intervention data (e.g., windows open or closed, time since last cleaning, type of chemical applied to a surface). Then, based on the time series aerosol data collected during the execution of the tracer test, the system can interpret a set of airflow values ​​for the aerosol zone—representing the flow and / or movement of aerosols in the aerosol zone during the test period. Based on the set of airflow values, the system can characterize the effectiveness (e.g., percentage, score out of 100, "efficient," "effective," "ineffective," or "harmful") of the current set of environmental controls implemented in the aerosol zone (represented in the first time series of environmental controls).

[0145] Furthermore, in the foregoing example, in response to a particular airflow value in the set of airflow values ​​falling outside a threshold deviation of a target metric (e.g., defined for the airflow value), the system may: generate a notification indicating the particular airflow value and including a prompt to modify HVAC settings (such as according to a particular set of HVAC settings) that are predicted to drive the particular airflow value toward the target metric.

[0146] In one variation, the system can automatically implement modifications to a set of environmental controls in the aerosol zone based on current airflow values ​​in the aerosol zone and / or risks associated with a set of pathogens. Specifically, in one example, during the execution of a tracer test within a test period, the system can access a first set of HVAC settings currently employed by the HVAC system of the aerosol zone. Then, based on the time series aerosol data collected during the execution of the tracer test, the system can interpret a set of airflow values ​​for the aerosol zone, including a first ventilation rate. In response to the first ventilation rate falling below a threshold ventilation rate defined for the aerosol zone, the system can: select a second set of HVAC settings predicted to increase the ventilation rate in the aerosol zone to replace the first set of HVAC settings; and trigger the HVAC system to adjust the HVAC settings according to the second set of HVAC settings. In addition, in this example, the system can perform additional tracer tests during subsequent test periods (such as after a threshold duration of confirmation of the implementation of the second set of HVAC settings by the HVAC system) to verify the increase in the ventilation rate in the aerosol zone. The system may continue to trigger adjustments to HVAC settings in the aerosol zone until the air change rate exceeds a threshold air change rate defined for the aerosol zone.

[0147] 8. Track airflow values ​​over time

[0148] In one embodiment, the system may: track changes in airflow values ​​within an aerosol region over time; and predict causal paths associated with changes in airflow values ​​derived for the aerosol region.

[0149] Specifically, in this embodiment, the system can: predict a first set of airflow values ​​for the aerosol zone during a first test period based on time series aerosol data collected during the first test period, as described above; predict a second set of airflow values ​​for the aerosol zone during a second test period based on time series aerosol data collected during a second test period after the first test period; characterize the difference between the first set of airflow values ​​and the second set of airflow values; and, based on the difference, predict a causal path associated with the difference - such as a change in a specific ventilation technology among a set of ventilation technologies used in the aerosol zone.

[0150] For example, during a first test period, the system may: access a first time series of aerosol data collected by a first sensor unit 120 arranged in the aerosol zone; access a first set of release parameters corresponding to the distribution of a first test tracer load by a dispenser 110 arranged in the aerosol zone during the test period; derive a first tracer signal based on the first time series of aerosol data and the first set of release parameters, the first tracer signal representing a change in the amount of a first type of tracer in the air detected at the first sensor unit 120 during the first test period; and predict a first ventilation rate of the first type of aerosolized particles in the aerosol zone during the first test period based on characteristics of the first tracer signal. Then, during a second test period following the first test period, the system may: access a second time series of aerosol data collected by the first sensor unit 120; access a second set of release parameters corresponding to the dispensing of a second test tracer load by the dispenser 110 during the second test period; derive a second tracer signal based on the second time series of aerosol data and the second set of release parameters, the second tracer signal representing a change in the amount of the first type of tracer in the air detected at the first sensor unit 120 during the second test period; and predict a second air change rate of the first type of aerosolized particles in the aerosol zone during the second test period based on characteristics of the second tracer signal. Then, the system may: characterize a difference between the first and second air change rates; and, in response to the difference exceeding a threshold difference, predict a first causal path, such as a change in an HVAC setting within the aerosol zone.

[0151] In this embodiment, the system may: generate notifications indicating detected changes in airflow values ​​(e.g., ventilation rates) in the aerosol zone; and send these notifications to one or more users associated with the aerosol zone. For example, in the aforementioned example, in response to the difference exceeding a threshold difference, the system may: generate a notification indicating the difference between the first ventilation rate and the second ventilation rate (including a prompt to verify or modify the HVAC settings within the aerosol zone); and send the notification to the users associated with the aerosol zone.

[0152] 9. Variant: Tracer gas + aerosol tracer

[0153] In one variation, block S120 of method S100 recites: releasing a first tracer load into ambient air in the aerosol zone via a dispenser 110 temporarily disposed in a target location in the aerosol zone, the first tracer load comprising a first concentration of aerosol tracer particles and a second concentration of tracer gas. In this variation, block S110 recites: during a first tracer test performed within a first test period, recording a first time series of aerosol data (representing a concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the first unit location during the first test period) via a first sensor (e.g., an aerosol sensor) integrated in a first sensor unit 120 temporarily disposed in a first unit location in the aerosol zone; and recording a second time series of gas data via a second sensor (e.g., a gas sensor) temporarily disposed in a second location in the aerosol zone, the second time series of gas data representing the presence of tracer gas in the air at the second sensor during the test period.

[0154] In general, in block S110, the sensor unit 120 may: access a first sensor (e.g., a particle or aerosol sensor) configured to signal the presence of aerosol particles in the air; and access a second sensor (e.g., a gas sensor) configured to signal the presence of a tracer gas in the air. The computer system may: trigger the sensor unit 120 to initiate recording of a time series of aerosol data via the first sensor; and simultaneously trigger the sensor unit 120 to initiate recording of a time series of aerosol data via the second sensor. The sensor unit 120 may then implement the above methods and techniques to: record a time series of aerosol data and a time series of gas data as described above; write the time series of aerosol data and the time series of gas data to local storage on the sensor unit 120; and upload the time series of aerosol data and the time series of gas data to the computer system (e.g., via the sensor communication module 124) at a target recording frequency.

[0155] In addition, as described above, the system can then utilize the data to: derive an aerosol tracer concentration curve representing the time series concentration of aerosol tracer particles in the aerosol zone during the test period based on the time series of aerosol data and a first concentration of aerosol particles in the tracer test load; and implement similar methods and techniques to derive a gas tracer concentration curve representing the time series concentration of tracer gas in the aerosol zone during the test period based on the time series of gas data and a second concentration of tracer gas in the tracer test load.

[0156] The system can then use these concentration curves to: derive a first airflow value representing the removal of airborne particles from the aerosol region based on characteristics of the aerosol concentration curve (e.g., decay rate, AUC, maximum concentration, minimum concentration, duration of the decay period); and derive a second airflow value representing the removal of gas from the aerosol region based on characteristics of the gas concentration curve (e.g., decay rate, AUC, maximum concentration, minimum concentration, duration of the decay period).

[0157] In particular, the system can: utilize a first airflow value (e.g., a first volumetric airflow) representing the removal of airborne particles from an aerosol zone to derive insights about particle removal pathways associated with particle and / or aerosol removal (e.g., ventilation, sedimentation, capture); and utilize a second airflow value (e.g., a second volumetric airflow) representing the removal of gas from an aerosol zone to derive insights about gas removal pathways associated with the removal of gas from an aerosol zone (e.g., ventilation, sedimentation, capture). Thus, the system can validate gas removal pathways (such as those associated with ventilation and / or outdoor air circulation within an indoor environment) independently of particle removal pathways (such as those including ventilation and / or outdoor air circulation, sedimentation, filtration, dilution, etc.). In addition, based on these airflow values ​​- and / or results associated with the airflow values ​​(e.g., whether the airflow values ​​correspond to target airflow values ​​defined for an aerosol zone) - the system can: characterize the effectiveness of various removal pathways corresponding to particles and gases in an aerosol zone; and / or recommend a pattern for deploying these removal pathways in an aerosol zone.

[0158] In one example, a system may implement the above methods and techniques to: derive an aerosol airflow value representing the removal of particles from an aerosol zone, such as via a set of removal paths including filtration, ventilation, sedimentation, capture, etc., based on characteristics of an aerosol concentration curve; derive a gas airflow value representing the removal of gas from the aerosol zone, such as via a first removal path in the set of removal paths corresponding to ventilation (or "outdoor air"), based on characteristics of the gas concentration curve; access a target aerosol flow value defined for aerosol removal in the aerosol zone; access a target airflow value defined for gas removal in the aerosol zone; access a ventilation rate adopted by an HVAC system installed in the aerosol zone during a test period; and derive a minimum ventilation rate based on the ventilation rate and the difference between the gas airflow value and the target gas airflow value. Then, in response to the aerosol airflow value being different from the target aerosol airflow value, the system may: derive an estimated airflow value representing the removal of particles from the aerosol zone during the test period via a first subset of removal paths in a set of removal paths that omits (omit) a first removal path; generate a prompt to increase the amplitude of a first removal path adopted in the aerosol zone and predicted to drive the aerosol airflow value toward the target aerosol airflow value; and send the prompt to a user affiliated with the aerosol zone.

[0159] The systems and methods described herein may be at least partially embodied and / or implemented as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. Instructions may be performed by a computer-executable component integrated with an application, applet, host, server, network, website, communication service, communication interface, hardware / firmware / software element of a user's computer or mobile device, a wristband, a smart phone, or any suitable combination thereof. Other systems and methods of embodiments may be at least partially embodied and / or implemented as a machine configured to receive a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions. Instructions may be performed by a computer-executable component integrated with a computer-executable component integrated with the above-mentioned types of devices and networks. Computer-readable media may be stored on any suitable computer-readable medium, such as RAM, ROM, flash memory 129, EEPROM, optical device (CD or DVD), hard drive, floppy disk drive, or any suitable device. The computer-executable component may be a processor, but any suitable dedicated hardware device may (alternatively or additionally) execute instructions.

[0160] As those skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the accompanying drawings and claims, modifications and changes may be made to the embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method, include: - During a first tracer test performed in the aerosol zone within a first test period: - triggering, during a first dispensing period, a release of a first tracer load into air in the aerosol zone by a dispenser disposed briefly in a dispenser position in the aerosol zone, the first tracer load comprising a test concentration of aerosol tracer particles; and - recording a first time series of aerosol data via a set of sensors integrated in a first sensor unit temporarily arranged in a first unit position in said aerosol zone, said first time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at said first unit position during said first test period; - deriving a first tracer concentration curve based on the first time series of aerosol data and the test concentration, the first tracer concentration curve representing the change in concentration of aerosol tracer particles at the first unit location during the first test period; - based on the characteristics of the first tracer concentration curve, deriving a first airflow value, the first airflow value being representative of the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period; and - interpreting a first result of the first tracer test based on a difference between the first airflow value and a target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone.

2. The method according to claim 1: - wherein a first time series of aerosol data is recorded during the first test period include: - recording, via the set of sensors, a first subset of a first time series of aerosol data during a background period preceding the first dispensing period; and - recording, via the set of sensors, a second subset of the first time series of aerosol data during a decay period following the dispensing period; and - wherein deriving the first tracer concentration curve based on the first time series of aerosol data and the test concentration comprises: - deriving a baseline concentration of aerosol particles present in the aerosol region during the first test period based on the first subset of the first time series of the aerosol data; and - deriving the first tracer concentration curve based on the second subset of the first time series of the aerosol data and the baseline concentration.

3. The method according to claim 2: - wherein the first air flow value is interpreted based on characteristics of the first tracer concentration curve include: -- extracting the area defined by the first tracer concentration curve; and - deriving the first airflow value including a volumetric airflow rate based on the area and the volume of the aerosol zone; and - wherein interpreting the first result of the first tracer test based on a difference between the first airflow value and the target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone comprises: -- accessing the target airflow value, the target airflow value comprising a target volumetric airflow rate defined for the aerosol zone; and In response to the target volumetric airflow rate exceeding the volumetric airflow rate, interpreting a result of the first tracer test as a failure.

4. The method according to claim 1: - wherein the first result of the first tracer test is interpreted based on a difference between the first airflow value and the target airflow value include: responsive to the first airflow value falling below the target airflow value, interpreting a result of the first tracer test as a failure; and - The method further comprises: -- accessing a first aerosol removal mode, the first aerosol removal mode defining a first set of aerosol removal paths employed in the aerosol zone during the first test period; --in response to interpreting the result of the first tracer test as a failure, suspending validation of the first aerosol removal mode in the aerosol zone; - During a second tracer test performed in the aerosol zone during a second test period of target duration after the first test period: --- triggering the release of a second tracer load into the air in the aerosol zone by the dispenser temporarily disposed in the dispenser position during a second dispensing period, the second tracer load comprising aerosol tracer particles at the test concentration; and --- recording a second time series of aerosol data via the set of sensors integrated in the first sensor unit in the first unit position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone, the second time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the first unit position during the second test period; - deriving a second tracer concentration curve based on the second time series of aerosol data and the test concentration, the second tracer concentration curve representing the change in the concentration of aerosol tracer particles at the first unit location during the second test period; - based on the characteristics of the second tracer concentration curve, deriving a second airflow value, the second airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the second test period; - in response to the second airflow value exceeding the target airflow value, interpreting the result of the second tracer test as a pass; - accessing a second aerosol removal mode, the second aerosol removal mode defining a second set of aerosol removal paths employed in the aerosol zone during the second test period; and - In response to interpreting the result of the second tracer test as a pass, verifying the second aerosol removal mode of the aerosol zone.

5. The method according to claim 4: - wherein the first airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period is derived include: deriving a first ventilation rate representative of removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol region during the first test period; - wherein interpreting the result of the first tracer test as a failure in response to the first airflow value falling below the target airflow value comprises: interpreting the result of the first tracer test as a failure in response to the first ventilation falling below a target ventilation rate defined for the aerosol zone; - wherein accessing the first aerosol removal mode defining the first set of aerosol removal paths comprises: accessing the first aerosol removal mode defining the first set of aerosol removal paths comprising a first filtering path and a first ventilation path; - wherein deriving the second airflow value indicative of the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the second test period comprises: deriving a second ventilation rate indicative of the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the second test period; - wherein interpreting the result of the second tracer test as a pass in response to the second airflow value exceeding the target airflow value comprises: interpreting the result of the second tracer test as a pass in response to the second ventilation exceeding the target ventilation rate; and - wherein accessing the second aerosol removal mode defining the second set of aerosol removal paths comprises: accessing the second aerosol removal mode defining the second set of aerosol removal paths comprising a second filtering path and a second ventilation path.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein releasing the first tracer load comprising the test concentration of aerosol tracer particles include: The first tracer load comprising aerosol tracer particles comprising the test concentration of aerosol salt particles is released.

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: include: -Based on the first result: -- identifying a first removal path from a set of removal paths, the first removal path being configured to drive the first airflow value toward the target airflow value; -- generating a prompt to implement the first removal path in the aerosol zone; and --sending the reminder to users associated with the aerosol zone; - during a second test period of target duration following said first test period: - during a second dispensing period of the first duration, releasing a second tracer load into the air in the aerosol zone via the dispenser, the second tracer load comprising the test concentration of aerosol tracer particles; and - recording, via the set of sensors integrated in the first sensor unit, a second time series of aerosol data representing a concentration of aerosol particles detected in the air at the location of the first unit during the second test period; - deriving a second tracer concentration curve representing the change in concentration of aerosol tracer particles in the aerosol region during the second test period based on the second time series of aerosol data and the test concentration; - interpreting a second airflow value indicative of particle removal from the aerosol zone during the second test period based on characteristics of the second tracer concentration curve; and - characterizing the effectiveness of the first removal path in the aerosol zone based on a first difference between the first airflow value and the second airflow value.

8. The method according to claim 1: - The method also include: - during the first test period, recording a second time series of aerosol data via a second set of sensors integrated in a second sensor unit temporarily arranged in a second unit position in the aerosol zone, the second time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the second unit position during the first test period; and - deriving a second tracer concentration curve based on the second time series of aerosol data and the test concentration, the second tracer concentration curve representing changes in the concentration of aerosol tracer particles at the second unit location during the first test period; and - wherein deriving the first airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period comprises: deriving the first airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period based on characteristics of the first tracer concentration curve and the second tracer concentration curve.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: include: - generating a first report, the first report comprising the first airflow value, the first result and a first set of setting data, the first set of setting data representing a setting configuration defined by the dispenser in the dispenser position, the first sensor unit arranged in the first unit position and the second sensor unit arranged in the second unit position; - storing the first report in a zone profile associated with the aerosol zone; - A first time of target duration after said first test period: -- accessing said first set of setting data stored in said zone profile; -- generating a prompt to install the dispenser, the first sensor unit, and the second sensor unit in the aerosol zone according to the setup configuration; and --sending the reminder to users associated with the aerosol zone; - During a second tracer test performed within a second test period after said first time: - during a second dispensing period of the first duration, releasing a second tracer load into the air in the aerosol zone via the dispenser, the second tracer load comprising the test concentration of aerosol tracer particles; - recording, via the set of sensors integrated in the first sensor unit, a third time series of aerosol data, the third time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles detected in the air at the location of the first unit during the second test period; and - recording, via the second set of sensors integrated in the second sensor unit, a fourth time series of aerosol data representing a concentration of aerosol particles detected in the air at the second unit location during the second test period; - deriving a third tracer concentration curve based on the third time series of aerosol data and the test concentration, the third tracer concentration curve representing the change in concentration of aerosol tracer particles at the first unit location during the second test period; - deriving a fourth tracer concentration curve based on a fourth time series of aerosol data and the test concentration, the fourth tracer concentration curve representing the change in concentration of aerosol tracer particles at the second unit location during the second test period; - interpreting a second airflow value indicative of particle removal from the aerosol zone during the second test period based on characteristics of the third tracer concentration curve and the fourth tracer concentration curve; and - and characterizing a difference between said first airflow value and said second airflow value.

10. The method according to claim 1: - wherein said first airflow value representing particle removal of said aerosol zone is derived include: deriving the first airflow value indicative of particle removal of the aerosol zone via a set of removal paths; and - The method further comprises: - deriving a second airflow value, the second airflow value representing gas removal of the aerosol zone via a first removal path in the set of removal paths, the first removal path comprising ventilation; -- accessing a target airflow value defined for gas removal in said aerosol zone; --accessing a ventilation rate employed by an HVAC system installed in the aerosol zone during the first test period; - deriving a minimum ventilation rate based on the ventilation rate and a difference between the second airflow value and the target airflow value; In response to the first airflow value being different from the target airflow value: --- estimating a third airflow value based on a difference between the first airflow value and the second airflow value, the third airflow value representing particle removal of the aerosol zone during the first test period via a first subset of removal paths in the set of removal paths, the first subset of removal paths omitting the first removal path; --- generating a prompt to increase the magnitude of the first removal path in a first subset of the removal paths employed in the aerosol zone and predicted to drive the first airflow value toward the target airflow value; and ---Sending the reminder to users associated with the aerosol zone.

11. The method according to claim 1: - a first time series of aerosol data representing the concentration of aerosol particles present in the air at the first unit location is recorded include: recording a first time series of said aerosol data representing a concentration of aerosol particles of a first size present in the air at said first unit location; - wherein deriving the first tracer concentration curve representing a change in the concentration of aerosol tracer particles at the first unit location during the first test period comprises: deriving the first tracer concentration curve representing a change in the concentration of aerosol tracer particles of the first size at the first unit location during the first test period; - The method further comprises: - recording, via the set of sensors in the first sensor unit integrated in the first unit position transiently arranged in the aerosol zone, a second time series of aerosol data representing a concentration of aerosol particles of a second size exceeding the first size present in the air at the first unit position during the first test period; and - deriving a second tracer concentration curve based on the second time series of aerosol data and the test concentration, the second tracer concentration curve representing the change in concentration of aerosol tracer particles of the second size at the first unit location during the first test period; and - wherein deriving the first airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period comprises: deriving the first airflow value representing the removal of aerosol particles from the aerosol zone during the first test period based on characteristics of the first tracer concentration curve and the second tracer concentration curve.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the first airflow fraction is characterized based on a difference between the first airflow value and the target airflow value defined for the aerosol zone. include: - accessing a set of environmental characteristics of the aerosol zone, the set of environmental characteristics comprising a first size of the aerosol zone and a target occupancy level defined for the aerosol zone; and - calculating said target airflow value based on said set of environmental characteristics.

13. The method according to claim 1: - wherein the trigger releases the first tracer load by the dispenser being temporarily arranged in the dispenser position in the aerosol zone include: triggering release of the first tracer load by the dispenser disposed momentarily in the dispenser position in the aerosol zone, and the dispenser comprising: --Reservoir for holding salt particles in solution: an actuator configured to release a tracer test load from the reservoir and into the aerosol region, the tracer test load comprising a first concentration of aerosol salt particles; and a first power module configured to supply power to the actuator; and wherein recording a first time series of aerosol data via the set of sensors in the first sensor unit integrated in the first unit position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone comprises: recording a first time series of aerosol data via the set of sensors in the first sensor unit integrated in the first unit position temporarily arranged in the aerosol zone, and the first sensor unit comprises: --The first group of sensors includes: --- a particle sensor configured to signal the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the location of the first unit; and ---a gas sensor configured to signal the presence of a tracer gas in the air at the location of the first unit; --Sensor communication module; -- A controller, the controller being configured to: --- In response to a command received by the sensor communication module, read a first time sequence of signals from the particle sensor; ---a second time sequence of reading signals from the gas sensor in response to the command; --- interpreting a time series amount of aerosol particles in the air flowing through the first unit location based on the first time series of the signal; and --- interpreting the time series of amounts of the tracer gas in the air flowing through the first unit location based on the second time series of the signal; and - A second power module, the second power module is configured to supply power to the controller and the first group of sensors.

14. A method, include: - During a first tracer test performed in the aerosol zone within a first test period: - during a first dispensing period, releasing a first tracer load into ambient air in the aerosol zone via a dispenser temporarily disposed in a target location in the aerosol zone, the first tracer load comprising a first concentration of aerosol tracer particles and a second concentration of tracer gas; - recording, via a first sensor temporarily arranged in a first unit location in the aerosol zone, a first time series of aerosol data, the first time series of aerosol data representing the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the first sensor during the test period; and - recording, via a second sensor temporarily disposed in a second unit location in the aerosol zone, a second time series of gas data, the second time series of gas data representing the presence of tracer gas in the air at the second sensor during the test period; - deriving an aerosol tracer concentration curve based on the first time series of aerosol data and the first concentration, the aerosol tracer concentration curve representing the time series concentration of aerosol tracer particles in the aerosol region during the test period; - interpreting a first airflow value indicative of airborne particle removal for said aerosol region based on characteristics of said aerosol concentration curve; - deriving a gas tracer concentration curve based on the second time series of gas data and the second concentration, the gas tracer concentration curve representing the time series concentration of tracer gas in the aerosol region during the test period; and - Based on the characteristics of the gas concentration curve, interpreting a second gas flow value representing gas removal from the aerosol region.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: include: - accessing a first target airflow value representing airborne particle removal for said aerosol zone; - a first result value characterizing the aerosol zone based on a first difference between the first target airflow value and the first airflow value, the first result value indicating the effectiveness of a set of particle removal paths implemented in the aerosol zone; - accessing a second target airflow value representing gas removal for said aerosol zone; and - a second result value characterizing the aerosol zone based on a second difference between the second target airflow value and the second airflow value, the second result value being indicative of the effectiveness of a set of gas removal paths implemented in the aerosol zone.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: include: - in response to the first result value corresponding to a target result value, verifying the effectiveness of the set of particle removal paths implemented in the aerosol zone; and In response to the second result value being different from the target result value: -- Flag the set of gas removal pathways for further study; -- generating a notification indicating the second result value and including a prompt to modify the set of gas removal pathways implemented in the aerosol zone; and --Sending the notification to users associated with the aerosol zone.

17. The method according to claim 14: - wherein the first airflow value representing the removal of airborne particles from the aerosol zone is interpreted include: interpreting the first airflow value indicative of airborne particle removal of the aerosol zone via a set of removal pathways; - wherein interpreting the second airflow value indicative of gas removal of the aerosol zone comprises: interpreting the second airflow value indicative of gas removal of the aerosol zone via a first removal path in the set of removal paths, the first removal path comprising outdoor air ventilation; and - The method further comprises: --characterizes the difference between the first airflow value and the second airflow value; - deriving a third airflow value, the third airflow value representing airborne particle removal of the aerosol zone via a subset of removal paths in the set of removal paths, the subset of removal paths omitting the first removal path; and - Calculating a target operating mode for implementing a subset of the removal pathways in the aerosol zone based on the third airflow value.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein releasing the first tracer load comprises the first concentration of aerosol tracer particles and the second concentration of tracer gas. include: Release the first tracer load comprising: - said first concentration of aerosol tracer particles comprising aerosolized salt particles; and - said second concentration of tracer gas comprising isopropanol.

19. A system, include: - a dispenser which is temporarily installed in a dispenser position in the aerosol zone and comprises: - a storage container comprising: --- non-volatile tracers in solution; and --- Volatile tracers in solution; an actuator configured to release a tracer test load from the reservoir and into the aerosol region, the tracer test load comprising a first concentration of an aerosol tracer and a second concentration of a tracer gas; and a first power module configured to supply power to the actuator; and - a first sensor unit, which is arranged in a first unit position in the aerosol zone and comprises: --The first group of sensors includes: --- a particle sensor configured to signal the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the location of the first unit; and ---a gas sensor configured to signal the presence of a tracer gas in the air at the location of the first unit; --Sensor communication module; -- A controller, the controller being configured to: --- In response to a command received by the sensor communication module, read a first time sequence of signals from the particle sensor; ---a second time sequence of reading signals from the gas sensor in response to the command; --- interpreting a time series amount of aerosol particles in the air flowing through the first unit location based on the first time series of the signal; and --- interpreting the time series of amounts of the tracer gas in the air flowing through the first unit location based on the second time series of the signal; and - A second power module, the second power module is configured to supply power to the controller and the first group of sensors.

20. The system according to claim 19: - the system further comprises a second sensor unit, the second sensor unit being arranged in a second unit position in the aerosol zone, and the second sensor unit include: --The second group of sensors includes: --- a second particle sensor configured to signal the presence of aerosol particles in the air at the location of the second unit; and ---a second gas sensor configured to signal the presence of a tracer gas in the air at the location of the second unit; --Second sensor communication module; - A second controller, wherein the second controller is configured to: --- In response to a command received by the second sensor communication module, read a third time series of signals from the second particle sensor; --- In response to the command received by the second sensor communication module, read a fourth time series of signals from the second gas sensor; --- interpreting the time series amount of aerosol particles in the air flowing through the second unit position based on the third time series of the signal; and --- interpreting a time series of amounts of tracer gas in air flowing through the second unit location based on a fourth time series of the signal; and a third power supply module configured to supply power to the second controller and the second set of sensors; and - wherein the first sensor unit and the second sensor unit cooperate to define a target arrangement of sensor units arranged around the dispenser.

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