Agricultural electronic nose auxiliary device integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions

Abstract

The invention discloses an agricultural electronic nose auxiliary device integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions, and belongs to the technical field of intelligent agricultural equipment. Through modular design, the device comprises an intelligent control unit module, a self-cleaning generation module, a multifunctional filtering module and an integrated calibration source module. According to the device, active protection, programmed self-cleaning and on-site one-key type rapid calibration of the sensor can be realized, and the problems that an existing electronic nose is easy to pollute in a field environment, difficult to calibrate, tedious to maintain and the like are effectively solved. Pollutants are blocked through a multi-stage filtering system, and the service life of the sensor is prolonged; manual intervention is reduced through the self-cleaning function; the integrated calibration source module simplifies calibration operation and ensures that data is accurate and reliable. Each module can be replaced independently, the maintenance cost is reduced, and the operation convenience is improved. According to the invention, the long-term working stability and data reliability of the electronic nose in a severe field environment are remarkably improved, and the electronic nose has an important application value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of smart agricultural equipment technology and relates to an electronic nose peripheral auxiliary device for agricultural field testing. Specifically, it relates to an electronic nose modular accessory that integrates active protection, automatic cleaning and rapid on-site calibration functions to improve the long-term working stability, data reliability and ease of operation of the electronic nose in harsh field environments. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic noses have shown great potential in early warning of agricultural pests and diseases, but their core gas sensors (such as metal oxide semiconductor sensors) have the following shortcomings in actual field applications: (1) Environmental interference and pollution: Dust, pollen, moisture, insect secretions, etc. can adhere to or even block the surface of the sensor's sensitive membrane, leading to baseline drift, decreased response sensitivity, and prolonged recovery time, which seriously affects detection accuracy and consistency; (2) Difficult calibration: Sensors need to be calibrated regularly with standard gases to maintain accuracy. However, the field environment lacks a stable standard gas source, and it is extremely inconvenient to carry heavy high-pressure gas cylinders to the field for operation, resulting in insufficient calibration frequency and the equipment being in an "inaccurate" state for a long time; (3) Cumbersome maintenance: Existing solutions are mostly simple dustproof nets, which need to be disassembled frequently for manual cleaning, and cannot solve the problems of chemical pollution and baseline drift on the sensor surface, resulting in high maintenance costs and poor user experience.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need for an auxiliary device that can solve the problems of protection, cleaning and calibration in one integrated way. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies and provide an electronic nose auxiliary device that is compact in structure, integrated in function, and easy to operate. Through modular design, this device achieves active protection of the sensor, programmed self-cleaning, and one-click rapid calibration on-site, significantly reducing maintenance frequency and operational difficulty, and ensuring the long-term reliable operation of the electronic nose.

[0005] The agricultural electronic nose auxiliary device integrating cleaning, protection, and calibration functions provided in this application adopts the following technical solution: An agricultural electronic nose auxiliary device integrating cleaning, protection, and calibration functions, characterized in that the electronic nose device comprises: The intelligent control unit module is connected to the air inlet of the electronic nose and communicates with the main unit of the electronic nose. It is used to receive commands from the main unit or according to a preset program. The self-cleaning generation module is connected to the intelligent control unit module; A multi-functional filter module is connected to the self-cleaning generator module; An integrated calibration source module can be set up separately or connected to the intelligent control unit module.

[0006] By adopting the above technical solutions, the electronic nose device is modularly designed, and a multi-stage filtration system effectively blocks physical and chemical contaminants, extending the sensor's lifespan. A programmed self-cleaning function can automatically execute after each test or periodically, without manual intervention. Complex standard gas calibration is simplified to a one-button on-site operation, ensuring long-term data accuracy and reliability. Each module can be replaced independently, reducing initial purchase and maintenance costs and improving the overall automation level of the system.

[0007] Furthermore, the intelligent control unit module, self-cleaning generator module, multi-functional filter module, and integrated calibration source module are all equipped with electrical data connection rods, connection pins, fixing buckles, and disassembly buttons; adjacent modules are connected and fixed by connection rods, connection pins, and fixing buckles, and the disassembly button is pressed to separate adjacent modules.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solution, the connection method between each module is further clarified, which enables each module to be quickly disassembled and replaced, reducing maintenance difficulty and time cost. Users can choose different module combinations according to actual needs, realize on-demand configuration, reduce initial purchase cost, and have high usage flexibility.

[0009] Furthermore, the intelligent control unit module controls the opening and closing of the self-cleaning generation module and the integrated calibration source module, manages the switching of the entire device's operating modes, and forms a closed gas path from the environment to the sensor.

[0010] By adopting the above technical solution, the device can switch between different operating modes, such as normal detection mode, self-cleaning mode, and calibration mode, through instructions from the intelligent control unit module. This automates cleaning and calibration, reduces manual intervention, and improves operational efficiency; it also reduces external interference, improving the reliability and accuracy of detection; the intelligent control unit module can switch operating modes according to preset programs or host instructions to adapt to different detection needs.

[0011] Furthermore, the intelligent control unit module is equipped with a multi-functional filter module indicator light, a self-cleaning generator module indicator light, an integrated calibration source module indicator light, and an illuminated power switch.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, the working status of each module is displayed via indicator lights, and the illuminated power switch simultaneously controls the on / off state of the air circuit. This provides operators with intuitive module status information, facilitating timely detection and handling of problems. The simultaneous control of the air circuit by the illuminated power switch simplifies the operation process and improves operational convenience.

[0013] Furthermore, the light-emitting power switch is also the airway switch for the electronic nose air intake. When the light-emitting power switch is not lit, the airway for the electronic nose air intake is closed. When the light-emitting power switch is lit, the operator can still close the airway for the electronic nose air intake by pressing the light-emitting power switch.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, visualization and convenience of gas circuit control are achieved, simplifying the operation process and improving operational flexibility and ease of use. The on / off status of the gas circuit is intuitively displayed through the status of the illuminated power switch, reducing the risk of gas circuit malfunctions caused by misoperation.

[0015] Furthermore, the self-cleaning generating module is composed of an electromagnetically controlled nozzle, a clean air storage chamber, an air pump channel, and a miniature high-pressure air pump. The electromagnetically controlled nozzle is connected to the clean air storage chamber, and the clean air storage chamber is connected to the miniature high-pressure air pump through the air pump channel.

[0016] By employing the above technical solution, clean air is pulsed onto the sensor surface using a miniature high-pressure air pump, achieving a self-cleaning function. This automated self-cleaning function improves the detection accuracy and lifespan of the device.

[0017] Furthermore, the clean air storage chamber is filled with desiccant and activated carbon to ensure that the ejected gas is clean and dry.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solution, the clean air storage chamber is filled with desiccant and activated carbon to ensure that the sprayed gas is clean and dry. The desiccant removes moisture from the air, while the activated carbon adsorbs impurities and odors, thereby ensuring the quality of the sprayed gas and further improving the cleaning effect. This solves the problem that the gas sprayed by traditional self-cleaning modules may contain impurities and moisture, reducing damage to the sensor caused by moisture and impurities and extending the sensor's service life.

[0019] Furthermore, the multifunctional filtration module consists of two stages of filtration: a secondary chemical filtration layer and a primary physical filtration layer. The primary physical filtration layer is used to intercept large particles. The secondary chemical filtration layer contains adsorption materials to adsorb common interfering gases in the environment and balance the humidity of the incoming air.

[0020] By adopting the above technical solution, two-stage filtration is achieved, effectively removing impurities and interfering gases, thus improving detection accuracy and reliability. The secondary chemical filter layer can balance the humidity of the incoming air, further optimizing the detection environment.

[0021] Furthermore, the integrated calibration source module is independent of the self-cleaning generation module and the multi-functional filter module. It consists of a volatile standard material chamber, a solenoid valve interface, and a solenoid valve. The volatile standard material chamber can release ethanol gas of known concentration when opened at a specific temperature. The volatile standard material chamber is connected to the solenoid valve through the solenoid valve interface.

[0022] By adopting the above technical solution, the complex standard gas calibration is simplified into a one-button on-site operation, and the built-in stable calibration source ensures the repeatability and convenience of calibration. Calibration using ethanol gas of known concentration ensures the long-term accuracy and reliability of the test data.

[0023] Furthermore, the solenoid valve is a normally closed solenoid valve.

[0024] By adopting the above technical solution, the normally closed solenoid valve design ensures the safe storage of calibration gas when not in use, avoiding the risk of leakage. It only opens when calibration is required, guaranteeing the accurate release of the calibration gas and further improving the reliability of the calibration results.

[0025] In summary, the present invention has at least one of the following beneficial technical effects: (1) The device of this invention, through its self-cleaning generator module and multi-functional filter module, can effectively remove impurities and contaminants from the sensor surface, while intercepting large particles and adsorbing interfering gases. This helps reduce the interference of environmental factors on the detection results, ensuring that the sensor is always in good working condition, thereby improving detection accuracy and reliability. The integrated calibration source module can release standard gases of known concentrations (such as ethanol gas) for periodic sensor calibration. This calibration mechanism can promptly correct sensor deviations, further improving the accuracy and stability of detection results and ensuring long-term stable operation of the device.

[0026] (2) The device of this invention adopts a modular structure. The functional modules are connected and fixed together via electrical data connection rods, connecting pins, and fixing clips, and can be quickly separated via a disassembly button. This design allows each module to be replaced and maintained independently. When a module malfunctions or needs upgrading, the entire device does not need to be replaced, greatly reducing maintenance costs and repair time. The intelligent control unit module is equipped with indicator lights for multiple functional modules, allowing operators to intuitively understand the working status of each module. This intuitive feedback mechanism helps users quickly identify potential problems and take timely measures, further improving equipment maintenance efficiency and user experience.

[0027] (3) In this invention, the intelligent control unit module can control the entire device to form a closed air path from the environment to the sensor, effectively isolating the sensor from direct contamination by the external environment and reducing the interference of environmental factors such as dust and moisture on the detection process, enabling the device to operate stably in more complex agricultural environments. The clean air storage chamber in the self-cleaning generation module is filled with desiccant and activated carbon, which can ensure that the sprayed gas is clean and dry. This design not only helps to clean the sensor, but also prevents the sensor from being damaged by moisture or contamination, further enhancing the adaptability of the device in harsh agricultural environments such as high humidity and high pollution. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the first connection structure of the device in use according to the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the second connection structure of the device in use according to the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the third connection structure of the device in use according to the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent control unit module structure in this invention.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the self-cleaning generation module in this invention.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the multifunctional filtering module in this invention.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the integrated calibration source module structure in this invention.

[0035] In the diagram: Intelligent control unit module 1, multi-functional filter module indicator light 1-1, self-cleaning generator module indicator light 1-2, integrated calibration source module indicator light 1-3, illuminated power switch 1-4, self-cleaning generator module 2, electromagnetic control nozzle 2-1, clean air storage chamber 2-2, air pump channel 2-3, miniature high-pressure air pump 2-4, multi-functional filter module 3, secondary chemical filter layer 3-1, primary physical filter layer 3-2, integrated calibration source module 4, volatile standard substance chamber 4-1, solenoid valve interface 4-2, solenoid valve 4-3, electrical data connection rod 5, connecting pin 6, fixing buckle 7, disassembly button 8. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The present invention will be further illustrated below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are only for illustrating the present invention and not for limiting the scope of the present invention. After reading the present invention, any modifications of the present invention in various equivalent forms by those skilled in the art fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

[0037] The modules are composed as follows: like Figure 4 As shown, the intelligent control unit module 2 is equipped with a multi-functional filter module indicator light 1-1, a self-cleaning generator module indicator light 1-2, an integrated calibration source module indicator light 1-3, and an illuminated power switch 1-4.

[0038] like Figure 5 As shown, the self-cleaning generating module 2 consists of an electromagnetically controlled nozzle 2-1, a clean air storage chamber 2-2, an air pump channel 2-3, and a miniature high-pressure air pump 2-4. The electromagnetically controlled nozzle 2-1 is connected to the clean air storage chamber 2-2, which is connected to the miniature high-pressure air pump 2-4 via the air pump channel 2-3. The clean air storage chamber 2-2 is filled with desiccant and activated carbon to ensure that the emitted gas is clean and dry.

[0039] like Figure 6 As shown, the multi-functional filter module 3 consists of two stages of filtration: a secondary chemical filter layer 3-1 and a primary physical filter layer 3-2. The primary physical filter layer 3-2 is used to intercept large particles. The secondary chemical filter layer 3-1 contains adsorption material to adsorb common interfering gases in the environment and balance the humidity of the incoming air.

[0040] like Figure 7 As shown, the integrated calibration source module 4 is independent of the self-cleaning generator module 2 and the multi-functional filter module 3. It consists of a volatile standard material chamber 4-1, a solenoid valve interface 4-2, and a solenoid valve 4-3. The volatile standard material chamber 4-1 can release ethanol gas of known concentration when opened at a specific temperature. The volatile standard material chamber 4-1 is connected to the solenoid valve 4-3 through the solenoid valve interface 4-2.

[0041] Example 1 Standard full-featured configuration and workflow This embodiment demonstrates the assembly and typical workflow of the device of the present invention in standard and full-function modes.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, the modules are mechanically and electrically connected in sequence.

[0043] First, fix the intelligent control unit module 1 to the right side of the air inlet of the electronic nose main unit via the interface on the left side of its housing and establish a communication connection. The illumination of the power switches 1-4 indicates that the power supply is normal.

[0044] Next, align and insert the interface on the left side of the self-cleaning module 2 with the standard interface on the right side of the intelligent control unit module 1 via the electrical data connection rod 5 and the connecting pin 6, and lock it in place using the fixing buckle 7. At this time, the indicator lights 1-2 of the self-cleaning module will flash and then remain on, indicating that the module has been successfully recognized and connected.

[0045] Next, connect and secure the left interface of the multi-functional filter module 3 to the right interface of the self-cleaning generator module 2 in the same manner (via connecting rod, pin, and clip). The indicator light 1-1 of the multi-functional filter module will illuminate.

[0046] Finally, the independent integrated calibration source module 4 connects to the dedicated gas path interface from the intelligent control unit module via its built-in solenoid valve interface 4-2, and is connected to the designated port of the intelligent control unit module via the control line of solenoid valve 4-3. The integrated calibration source module indicator light 1-3 illuminates, indicating that the calibration module is ready.

[0047] At this point, a complete device integrating protection, self-cleaning, and calibration functions is assembled, forming a closed air path from the environment (multifunctional filter module 3) to the sensor (inside the main unit).

[0048] (2) Workflow: Normal detection mode: The electronic nose main unit initiates the detection task. Ambient air passes sequentially through the primary physical filter layer 3-2, the secondary chemical filter layer 3-1, and then flows through the self-cleaning generator module 2 (its internal air passage is unobstructed at this time, but the electromagnetically controlled nozzle 2-1 and the miniature high-pressure air pump 2-4 are not working), and finally enters the main unit sensor compartment. All module indicator lights remain constantly lit.

[0049] Self-cleaning mode: After the detection task is completed, the host sends a command. The intelligent control unit module starts the miniature high-pressure air pump 2-4. After being filtered by the multi-functional filter module 3, the external air is pumped into the clean air storage chamber 2-2 through the air pump channel 2-3 for drying and purification. After about 3 seconds, the electromagnetic control nozzle 2-1 opens instantaneously, spraying the dry and clean air in the chamber at high speed in a pulse form onto the sensor surface for purging. This process can be automatically repeated 3-5 times. During this period, the self-cleaning module indicator light 1-2 flashes in a breathing pattern.

[0050] On-site calibration mode: The user initiates calibration through the host interface. The intelligent control unit module first closes the main air intake passage of the host, then opens solenoid valve 4-3. Ethanol, built into the volatile standard material chamber 4-1, slowly evaporates at room temperature. The ethanol vapor enters the device's gas path through the opened solenoid valve and diffuses back to the sensor chamber. The sensor detects this standard gas, and the host compares the response value with the internal standard curve, automatically completing the calibration coefficient correction. After calibration, the solenoid valve closes, and the main gas path is restored. During calibration, the integrated calibration source module indicator light 1-3 flashes rapidly.

[0051] Example 2 Simplified configuration (protection features only) This embodiment demonstrates the modular flexibility of the device of the present invention, and its configuration in low-cost application scenarios requiring only basic protection functions. In some cost-sensitive scenarios or where only short-term temporary monitoring is needed, users may only require basic air filtration functions. In this case, the device can be simplified and assembled as follows: like Figure 2 As shown, the intelligent control unit module 1 still serves as the control core and is connected to the electronic nose host.

[0052] The multi-functional filter module 3 is directly connected to the standard interface on the right side of the intelligent control unit module 1 via the electrical data connection rod 5, the connecting pin 6, and the fixing buckle 7, skipping the installation of the self-cleaning generator module 2 and the integrated calibration source module 4.

[0053] The intelligent control unit module detects that only the filter module is connected and automatically configures the system to "simple protection mode". The multi-function filter module indicator light 1-1 and the illuminated power switch 1-4 are constantly lit, while the self-cleaning generator indicator light 1-2 and the integrated calibration source module indicator light 1-3 are off.

[0054] In this configuration, the device only provides continuous air filtration and cannot perform self-cleaning or automatic calibration. Users must periodically and manually disassemble the filter module for cleaning or replacement. This demonstrates the modular advantage of the "configurable on demand" feature of this invention, reducing initial purchase costs.

[0055] Example 3 Maintenance and Consumable Replacement Operations This embodiment details the maintenance process of the replaceable consumable module in the device of the present invention, highlighting its ease of maintenance.

[0056] (1) Replacement of the multi-functional filter module: Press the disassembly buckle 8 at the connection between the multi-functional filter module 3 and the adjacent module to release the locking of the fixing buckle 7.

[0057] Smoothly pull out the module and disconnect the electrical data connection rod 5 from the connection pin 6.

[0058] Install the new or cleaned filter modules in reverse order. Once the intelligent control unit module recognizes the new module, the multi-function filter module indicator light 1-1 will flash three times rapidly and then remain constantly lit, indicating successful recognition. The primary physical filter layer 3-2 and the secondary chemical filter layer 3-1 can be designed as an integrated filter element for complete replacement.

[0059] (2) Replacement of the integrated calibration source module: The integrated calibration source module 4 is independently packaged. It is replaced when the volatile standard material chamber 4-1 inside is depleted (which can be determined by prompts from the host software or calibration failure), or when it is necessary to replace it with a different standard material.

[0060] Disconnect the air hose and data cable directly from the solenoid valve interface 4-2.

[0061] Remove the old calibration source module entirely, replace it with the new module, and reconnect it.

[0062] After the intelligent control unit module recognizes the new module, it needs to initiate a calibration process through the host to verify the validity of the new standard source and update the system records. Indicator lights 1-3 on the integrated calibration source module will flash during the calibration verification process.

[0063] (3) Maintenance of the self-cleaning module: This module mainly consists of electronic components and a cavity, and requires no routine maintenance. If the desiccant in the clean air storage cavity 2-2 needs to be replaced, it can be refilled through the dedicated maintenance cover on the module (not shown in the figure). After refilling, a specific command can be sent from the main unit to start the miniature high-pressure air pump 2-4 to run idle for a period of time to activate the new desiccant and expel dust.

Claims

1. An electronic nose auxiliary device for agriculture, which integrates cleaning, protection, and calibration functions, characterized in that, The electronic nose device includes: The intelligent control unit module (1) is connected to the air inlet of the electronic nose and communicates with the electronic nose host to receive host commands or according to a preset program. The self-cleaning generation module (2) is connected to the intelligent control unit module (1); A multi-functional filter module (3) is connected to the self-cleaning generator module (2); The integrated calibration source module (4) can be set up separately or connected to the intelligent control unit module (1).

2. The electronic nose assisted device for agriculture integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intelligent control unit module (1), self-cleaning generator module (2), multi-functional filter module (3), and integrated calibration source module (4) are all equipped with an electrical data connection rod (5), a connection pin (6), a fixing buckle (7), and a disassembly button (8). The two adjacent modules are connected and fixed by the connection rod (5), the connection pin (6), and the fixing buckle (7). The two adjacent modules can be separated by pressing the disassembly button (8).

3. An agricultural electronic nose auxiliary device integrating cleaning, protection, and calibration functions as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The intelligent control unit module (2) controls the opening and closing of the self-cleaning generation module (2) and the integrated calibration source module (4), manages the switching of the working mode of the entire device, and forms a closed air path from the environment to the sensor.

4. The electronic nose assisted device for agriculture integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions according to claim 3, characterized in that: The intelligent control unit module (2) is equipped with a multi-functional filter module indicator light (1-1), a self-cleaning generator module indicator light (1-2), an integrated calibration source module indicator light (1-3), and an illuminated power switch (1-4).

5. The electronic nose assisted device for agriculture integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions according to claim 4, characterized in that: The light-emitting power switch (1-4) is also the airway switch for the electronic nose air intake. When the light-emitting power switch is not lit, the airway for the electronic nose air intake is closed. When the light-emitting power switch is lit, the operator can still close the airway for the electronic nose air intake by pressing the light-emitting power switch.

6. An agricultural electronic nose auxiliary device integrating cleaning, protection, and calibration functions as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The self-cleaning generating module (2) is composed of an electromagnetic control nozzle (2-1), a clean air storage chamber (2-2), an air pump channel (2-3), and a miniature high-pressure air pump (2-4). The electromagnetic control nozzle (2-1) is connected to the clean air storage chamber (2-2), and the clean air storage chamber (2-2) is connected to the miniature high-pressure air pump (2-4) through the air pump channel (2-3).

7. An agricultural electronic nose auxiliary device integrating cleaning, protection, and calibration functions as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The clean air storage chamber (2-2) is filled with desiccant and activated carbon to ensure that the ejected gas is clean and dry.

8. The electronic nose assisted device for agriculture integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions according to claim 1, characterized in that: The multifunctional filtration module (3) consists of two stages of filtration: a secondary chemical filtration layer (3-1) and a primary physical filtration layer (3-2). The primary physical filtration layer (3-2) is used to intercept large particles. The secondary chemical filtration layer (3-1) contains adsorption material to adsorb common interfering gases in the environment and balance the humidity of the incoming air.

9. The electronic nose assisted device for agriculture integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions according to claim 1, characterized in that: The integrated calibration source module (4) is independent of the self-cleaning generation module (2) and the multi-functional filter module (3). It consists of a volatile standard material chamber (4-1), a solenoid valve interface (4-2), and a solenoid valve (4-3). The volatile standard material chamber (4-1) can release ethanol gas of known concentration when opened at a specific temperature. The volatile standard material chamber (4-1) is connected to the solenoid valve (4-3) through the solenoid valve interface (4-2).

10. The electronic nose assisted device for agriculture integrating cleaning, protection and calibration functions according to claim 9, characterized in that: The solenoid valve (4-3) is a normally closed solenoid valve.

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