Smell measuring apparatus

Abstract

To provide a smell measuring apparatus with fewer restrictions on measurement conditions.SOLUTION: The smell measuring apparatus includes: a smell sensor for measuring the smell of a sample to be measured; a housing for accommodating the smell sensor; a refresh-gas flow path for introducing a refresh gas into the housing; a sample flow path for introducing the sample into the housing; a switching part for switching connection of the refresh-gas flow path and the sample flow path to the housing; and an intake pump disposed on the downstream side in the flow direction of the sample or the refresh gas with respect to the housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an odor measuring device. [Background technology]

[0002] Odor measuring devices equipped with odor sensors that measure odors are currently in use. The odor measuring device includes, for example, a container for containing a sample to be measured, an odor sensor that measures the odor of the sample, and a container for containing the odor sensor (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This odor measuring device allows for easy adjustment of temperature and humidity during odor measurement. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-132175 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the odor measuring device, the amount of sample depends on the capacity of the container, which places limitations on odor measurement. Therefore, for example, continuous and repeated odor measurement can be difficult. There is also the problem that the odor measuring device can only measure samples that can be stored in the container. As such, the odor measuring device has many limitations on measurement conditions.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an odor measuring device that solves the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An odor measuring device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an odor sensor that measures the odor of a sample to be measured, a housing that houses the odor sensor, a refresh gas flow path that introduces refresh gas into the housing, a sample flow path that introduces the sample into the housing, a switching unit that switches the connection of the refresh gas flow path and the sample flow path to the housing, and an intake pump that is positioned downstream of the housing in the flow direction of the sample or the refresh gas. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the above aspect, it is possible to provide an odor measuring device with few restrictions on measurement conditions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a measurement chamber. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a temperature adjustment mechanism. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a humidity control mechanism. [Figure 6] 1 is a flow chart showing an example of an odor measurement method. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing another example of an odor measurement method. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a first measurement state in the odor measurement method. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a second measurement state in the odor measurement method. [Figure 10] 1 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of a first modified example of an odor measuring device. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of a second modified example of the odor measuring device. [Figure 13]FIG. 10 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of a third modified example of the odor measuring device. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of a fourth modified example of the odor measuring device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] First Embodiment Hereinafter, an embodiment according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] [Odor measuring device] As shown in FIG. 1, this odor measuring device includes an odor sensor 201 that measures the odor of a sample to be measured, a housing 101 that houses the odor sensor 201, a refresh gas flow path 121 that introduces refresh gas into the housing 101, a sample flow path 122 that introduces the sample into the housing 101, a switching unit 107 that switches the connection of the refresh gas flow path 121 and the sample flow path 122 to the housing 101, and an intake pump 102 that is located downstream of the housing 101 in the flow direction of the sample or refresh gas.

[0011] In the odor measuring device configured as described above, intake pump 102 is disposed downstream of housing 101 in the gas flow direction. Therefore, gas (e.g., air) (sample) can be taken in from the external space (space outside the odor measuring device) through sample flow path 122, and its odor can be measured. Therefore, unlike odor measuring devices that have a structure in which odorous substances are generated in a sample container, there are fewer restrictions on the measurement target. This allows for a wider range of measurement targets in odor measurement.

[0012] This odor measuring device does not require a sample container to hold the sample, so there are fewer restrictions on the amount of sample, making it easy to measure odors continuously and repeatedly.

[0013] Second Embodiment [Odor measuring device] As shown in FIG. 2, the odor measuring device 1 includes an odor measuring device 100 (measuring device main body) and a measurement control terminal a. The measurement control terminal a is connected to the odor measuring device 100. The measurement control terminal a controls the operation of the odor measuring device 100. An information processing terminal capable of running a dedicated application used for measurement control can be used as the measurement control terminal a. The measurement control terminal a can exchange signals related to measurements in the odor measuring device 100. For example, a personal computer, a smartphone, or a workstation device can be used as the measurement control terminal a. However, the measurement control terminal a is not limited to these, and can be any information processing terminal capable of realizing the above-mentioned functions.

[0014] The odor measuring device 100 includes a measurement chamber 101, an intake pump 102, a temperature control mechanism 103, a humidity control mechanism 104, a flow meter 105, a temperature and humidity sensor 106, a solenoid valve 107, one-way valves 108a and 108b, filters 109a, 109b, and 109c, a sample collection port 110, a control circuit 111, a refresh gas flow path 121, a sample flow path 122, an inlet flow path 123, an outlet flow path 124, and an odor sensor 201 (see FIG. 3).

[0015] In the following description, "downstream side" means the downstream side in the direction of gas (analyte or carrier gas) flow, and "upstream side" means the upstream side in the direction of gas (analyte or carrier gas) flow.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 3, the measurement chamber 101 accommodates an odor sensor 201 and a vibration isolation mechanism 202 . Measurement methods for the odor sensor 201 include, for example, the Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) method, the Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) method, the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) method, and the Complementary MOS (CMOS) method. The odor sensor 201 may employ a combination of these methods. The measurement method for the odor sensor 201 is not particularly limited. The odor sensor 201 is supported in the measurement chamber 101 via, for example, a vibration isolation mechanism 202.

[0017] The vibration isolation mechanism 202 suppresses vibrations transmitted to the odor sensor 201. The vibration isolation mechanism 202 includes, for example, a vibration-isolating material that has the function of absorbing and suppressing vibrations. Examples of vibration-isolating materials that can be used include vibration-isolating sponges, vibration-isolating rubber, and vibration-isolating dampers. The vibration isolation mechanism 202 may be a combination of multiple vibration-isolating materials. For example, odor sensors 201 that employ a QCM method or a MEMS method are susceptible to vibration due to the detection principle. However, in the odor measuring device 100, the vibrations can be suppressed by the vibration isolation mechanism 202, and therefore a decrease in the detection accuracy of the odor sensor 201 can be suppressed.

[0018] The measurement chamber 101 has a structure (sealed structure) that restricts the inflow of gas from any source other than the measurement path (flow paths 123, 124). The internal space of the measurement chamber 101 is isolated from the external environment. The measurement chamber 101 functions as a housing that isolates the space around the odor sensor 201 from the outside.

[0019] 2, the intake pump 102 can be any pump that can supply gas at a flow rate necessary for measurement by the odor sensor 201. The intake pump 102 is disposed downstream of the measurement chamber 101. The intake pump 102 reduces the pressure in the measurement chamber 101 by sucking in gas from the interior of the measurement chamber 101 through the outlet flow path 124.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 4, the temperature adjustment mechanism 103 includes a temperature adjustment path 301, a temperature regulator 302, and temperature and humidity sensors 303a and 303b. The temperature adjustment path 301 has a structure that allows temperature adjustment by heating or cooling using a temperature adjuster 302 .

[0021] Temperature regulator 302 heats or cools the gas (specimen or carrier gas) in temperature adjustment path 301. For example, a heater, a Peltier element, a cooler, or the like can be used as temperature regulator 302. The method of temperature adjustment by temperature regulator 302 is not particularly limited as long as it can realize the temperature adjustment function.

[0022] The temperature and humidity sensor 303a measures the temperature of the gas before it is introduced into the temperature adjustment path 301. The temperature and humidity sensor 303b measures the temperature of the gas after it has passed through the temperature adjustment path 301. The temperature and humidity sensors 303a and 303b may be capable of measuring both temperature and humidity. The temperature and humidity sensors 303a and 303b may also be sensors capable of measuring only temperature (temperature sensors).

[0023] The temperature regulator 302 includes, for example, a conduit through which a specimen or a carrier gas flows. The conduit has a length sufficient for heating or cooling. The conduit may have a coiled or zigzag shape.

[0024] The control circuit 111 controls the temperature of the temperature regulator 302 based on the measurement value of at least one of the temperature and humidity sensors 303a and 303b, thereby adjusting the temperature of the gas in the temperature adjustment path 301. When adjusting the temperature of the gas in the temperature adjustment path 301 based on the measurement value of the temperature and humidity sensor 303b (i.e., when performing feedback control), the accuracy of the temperature adjustment can be improved.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 5, the humidity adjustment mechanism 104 includes a humidity adjustment path 401, a humidity adjuster 402, and temperature and humidity sensors 403a and 403b. The humidity control path 401 has an internal space sufficient for humidity control by the humidity adjuster 402 .

[0026] Humidity regulator 402 adjusts the humidity of the gas (specimen or carrier gas) in humidity control path 401. The humidity control method used by humidity regulator 402 may be, for example, condensation dehumidification using a Peltier element, or dehumidification using a moisture absorbent material such as zeolite, bamboo charcoal, diatomaceous earth, or silica gel. The humidity control method used by humidity regulator 402 is not particularly limited as long as it can achieve the humidity control function.

[0027] The temperature and humidity sensor 403a measures the humidity of the gas before it is introduced into the humidity control path 401. The temperature and humidity sensor 403b measures the humidity of the gas after it has passed through the humidity control path 401. The temperature and humidity sensors 403a and 403b may be capable of measuring both temperature and humidity. The temperature and humidity sensors 403a and 403b may also be sensors (humidity sensors) capable of measuring only humidity.

[0028] The control circuit 111 controls the operation of the humidity regulator 402 based on the measurement value of at least one of the temperature and humidity sensors 403a and 403b, thereby adjusting the humidity of the gas in the humidity adjustment path 401. When adjusting the humidity of the gas in the humidity adjustment path 401 based on the measurement value of the temperature and humidity sensor 403b (i.e., when performing feedback control), the accuracy of the humidity adjustment can be improved.

[0029] The control circuit 111 can also adjust the humidity of the gas in the humidity control path 401 based on the measurement value of at least one of the temperature and humidity sensors 303a and 303b (see FIG. 4).

[0030] It is preferable that the humidity adjustment mechanism 104 determines an upper limit of humidity suitable for measurement by the odor sensor 201 and controls the humidity to be equal to or lower than this upper limit, since this simplifies the control.

[0031] 2, the flow meter 105 measures the flow rate of the gas introduced into the measurement chamber 101. The flow meter 105 can be used to check and monitor whether the flow rate of the gas introduced into the measurement chamber 101 is the value required by the odor sensor 201. The flow rate that the flow meter 105 can measure can be determined according to the value required by the odor sensor 201. The flow meter 105 may be either analog or digital, as long as it can measure the required flow rate. The flow meter 105 may have a flow rate adjustment or control function.

[0032] When a digital system is adopted for the flow meter 105, the flow meter 105 may be connected to a control circuit 111. In this case, the flow meter 105 can transmit a signal including information on the measured value of the gas flow rate to the control circuit 111. The control circuit 111 can monitor the flow rate of the gas introduced into the measurement chamber 101. The control circuit 111 may perform the above-mentioned control (control of temperature, humidity, etc.) based on the flow rate of the gas introduced into the measurement chamber 101.

[0033] The temperature adjustment mechanism 103 , the humidity adjustment mechanism 104 , and the flow meter 105 are disposed between the electromagnetic valve 107 and the measurement chamber 101 .

[0034] The temperature and humidity sensor 106 measures the temperature and humidity of the gas that has passed through the measurement chamber 101. The temperature and humidity sensor 106 is disposed between the measurement chamber 101 and the intake pump 102.

[0035] The temperature and humidity sensor 106 is connected to a control circuit 111. The control circuit 111 can adjust the temperature of the gas in the temperature adjustment mechanism 103 based on the measurement value of the temperature and humidity sensor 106. The control circuit 111 can adjust the humidity of the gas in the humidity adjustment mechanism 104 based on the measurement value of the temperature and humidity sensor 106.

[0036] Measurements by odor sensor 201 (see FIG. 3) may be affected by temperature or humidity. Therefore, control circuit 111 can perform software corrections on the measurement results by odor sensor 201 based on the measurement values ​​of temperature and humidity sensor 106.

[0037] The solenoid valve 107 is an example of a switching unit that switches between paths. It is preferable that the solenoid valve 107 be able to flow gas at a flow rate required by the odor sensor 201. The structure of the solenoid valve 107 is selected depending on the number of paths that need to be switched. For example, when switching between two paths (a refresh gas path 121 and a specimen path 122), a three-way valve can be used as the solenoid valve 107. The solenoid valve 107 can be opened and closed based on a command from the control circuit 111. A solenoid valve having an appropriate number of switching ports depending on the number of paths can be used as the solenoid valve 107. The solenoid valve 107 is arranged upstream of the measurement chamber 101.

[0038] The one-way valves 108a and 108b have the function of restricting the flow in the direction opposite to the gas flow direction. One-way valve 108a is provided in refresh gas flow path 121 between filter 109a and solenoid valve 107. One-way valve 108b is provided in sample flow path 122 between sample collection port 110 and solenoid valve 107.

[0039] Filter 109a is provided at the upstream end of refresh gas flow path 121. Filter 109b is provided at the upstream end of specimen flow path 122. Filters 109a and 109b prevent foreign matter from entering the flow paths. Filter 109c is provided at the downstream end of outlet flow path 124. Filter 109c prevents specimen from being discharged outside the system. For example, a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter), a charcoal filter, or the like can be used as the filters 109a, 109b, and 109c.

[0040] The specimen collection port 110 can take in gas (specimen) from the external space (space outside the odor measuring device 1).

[0041] The refresh gas flow path 121 is a flow path that runs from the filter 109a through the one-way valve 108a to the solenoid valve 107. The refresh gas flow path 121 introduces a carrier gas (refresh gas) from the filter 109a and leads it to the solenoid valve 107, thereby leading the gas to the measurement chamber 101.

[0042] Specimen flow path 122 is a flow path that leads from filter 109b through specimen collection port 110 to solenoid valve 107. Specimen flow path 122 introduces the specimen from filter 109b and leads it to solenoid valve 107, which leads the gas to measurement chamber 101.

[0043] The introduction flow path 123 is a flow path that extends from the electromagnetic valve 107 through the temperature adjustment mechanism 103, the humidity adjustment mechanism 104, and the flow meter 105 to the measurement chamber 101. The introduction flow path 123 introduces gas from the refresh gas flow path 121 or the specimen flow path 122 into the measurement chamber 101.

[0044] The outlet flow path 124 is a flow path that leads from the measurement chamber 101 to the filter 109c. The outlet flow path 124 exhausts gas from the measurement chamber 101.

[0045] [Odor measurement method] An odor measurement method using the odor measurement device 1 will now be described.

[0046] (preparation process) As shown in Fig. 2, as a preliminary step, it is confirmed whether the flow rate of the carrier gas sent into the measurement chamber 101 during measurement is set appropriately for the measurement. To confirm this, the measurement control terminal a issues an instruction to perform a test run to check the flow rate, and operates the intake pump 102. The control circuit 111 opens the refresh gas flow path 121 in the solenoid valve 107.

[0047] The measurement chamber 101 is depressurized by sucking gas from the interior of the measurement chamber 101 with the suction pump 102. This allows carrier gas supplied from a supply source (not shown) to be taken in through a filter 109a. Examples of carrier gas include air, nitrogen gas, and argon gas. The carrier gas is also called "refresh gas."

[0048] The carrier gas flows through a refresh gas flow path 121 and reaches an electromagnetic valve 107. As the carrier gas flows through the refresh gas flow path 121, it passes through a one-way valve 108a. The carrier gas (carrier gas not containing a specimen) flows through an introduction flow path 123 and reaches the measurement chamber 101. As the carrier gas flows through the introduction flow path 123, it passes through a temperature adjustment mechanism 103, a humidity adjustment mechanism 104, and a flow meter 105.

[0049] The carrier gas is discharged from the measurement chamber 101 through the outlet flow path 124. When flowing through the outlet flow path 124, the carrier gas passes through the temperature and humidity sensor 106, the intake pump 102, and the filter 109c.

[0050] After a sufficient amount of carrier gas is flowed through the refresh gas flow passage 121, the inlet flow passage 123, and the outlet flow passage 124, the process waits (see step 501 shown in FIG. 6).

[0051] (adjustment process) Prior to measurement, temperature adjustment mechanism 103 and humidity adjustment mechanism 104 adjust the carrier gas to a temperature and humidity suitable for measurement. At this point, solenoid valve 107 opens the connection with refresh gas flow path 121. Solenoid valve 107 closes the connection with specimen flow path 122. Therefore, solenoid valve 107 is in a state where carrier gas not containing specimen is supplied from refresh gas flow path 121. The state where solenoid valve 107 opens the connection with refresh gas flow path 121 and closes the connection with specimen flow path 122 is called the "first measurement state" (see FIG. 8).

[0052] The control circuit 111 can adjust at least one of the temperature and humidity of the gas in at least one of the temperature adjustment path 301 and the humidity adjustment path 401 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) based on the measurement value of at least one of the temperature and humidity sensors 106, 303a, 303b, 403a, and 403b (see FIGS. 2, 4, and 5). In this way, it is confirmed that carrier gas adjusted to the appropriate temperature and humidity is being supplied (see step 502 shown in FIG. 6).

[0053] The optimum temperature and humidity for measurement vary depending on the type of odor sensor 201 (see Figure 3), how it is used, etc. The optimum temperature and humidity for measurement also vary depending on the odorous substance being measured. Therefore, when making a measurement, it is desirable to check and verify the temperature and humidity characteristics of the odor sensor 201 and the odorous substance in advance, and to carry out control that reflects the results.

[0054] (Measurement process) When it is confirmed that carrier gas adjusted to the appropriate temperature and humidity is being supplied, a measurement start instruction is sent from the measurement control terminal a to the odor measuring device 100. This causes the device to move on to measuring the odorous substance being measured.

[0055] In the step of measuring odorous substances, a single measurement may be performed or repeated measurements may be performed. Note that a single measurement also includes a long-term continuous measurement.

[0056] The case of a single measurement will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 6, 8 and 9. As shown in Figures 2 and 8, the status of temperature and humidity adjustment can be confirmed through the control circuit 111 based on detection signals from, for example, temperature and humidity sensors 106, 303a, 303b, 403a, and 403b (see Figures 2, 4, and 5).

[0057] The measurement control terminal a may be provided with an alarm unit capable of checking the status of temperature and humidity adjustment. An example of the alarm unit is a display unit (e.g., an indicator, a display). The display unit can display the status of temperature and humidity adjustment. For example, the display unit can display whether the temperature and humidity adjustment is complete or incomplete. The alarm unit is not limited to a display unit. It is sufficient that the alarm unit be capable of checking the status of temperature and humidity adjustment.

[0058] The measurement control terminal a may have a function to determine whether to proceed to the next step based on the status of temperature and humidity adjustment. That is, the measurement control terminal a determines whether the temperature and humidity adjustment is complete (step 502 shown in FIG. 6), and if the temperature and humidity adjustment is complete, proceeds to the next step (step 503 shown in FIG. 6). If the temperature and humidity adjustment is not complete, step 502 (see FIG. 6) is repeated.

[0059] After the start of measurement (step 503 shown in FIG. 6), calibration is performed, if necessary, for a certain period of time by introducing only carrier gas into the measurement chamber 101. Note that calibration using carrier gas may be omitted if it does not affect the measurement.

[0060] After calibration is complete, in response to a command from control circuit 111, solenoid valve 107 closes the connection to refresh gas flow path 121 and opens the connection to specimen flow path 122. The state in which solenoid valve 107 closes the connection to refresh gas flow path 121 and opens the connection to specimen flow path 122 is called the "second measurement state" (see FIG. 9).

[0061] The measurement chamber 101 is depressurized by the suction pump 102. As a result, gas (e.g., air) (specimen) from the external space (space outside the odor measuring device 1) is taken in through the sample collection port 110 via the filter 109b. Note that in this odor measurement method, odor measurement may be performed without using the filter 109b. For example, gas from the external space may be taken in directly (i.e., without passing through a filter) through the sample collection port 110.

[0062] The specimen flows through specimen flow path 122 and reaches solenoid valve 107. As the specimen flows through specimen flow path 122, it passes through one-way valve 108b. The specimen flows through inlet flow path 123 and reaches measurement chamber 101. As the specimen flows through inlet flow path 123, it passes through temperature adjustment mechanism 103, humidity adjustment mechanism 104, and flow meter 105.

[0063] The sample introduced into the measurement chamber 101 comes into contact with the odor sensor 201 (see FIG. 3). The odor sensor 201 measures the odor of the sample (steps 504 and 505 shown in FIG. 6). The odor sensor 201 measures, for example, the concentration and type of odorous substances contained in the sample.

[0064] The time that the sample remains in the measurement chamber 101 is determined in accordance with the sample and the operating method of the odor measurement device 100. The time that the sample remains in the measurement chamber 101 is determined so as to ensure the time necessary to identify the odorous substance to be measured.

[0065] The gas in the measurement chamber 101 is discharged to the outside of the system through the outlet flow path 124. When the gas leaves the measurement chamber 101 and flows through the outlet flow path 124, it passes through the temperature and humidity sensor 106, the intake pump 102, and the filter 109c.

[0066] After the measurement is completed, the control circuit 111 switches the solenoid valve 107 from the second measurement state to the first measurement state. The solenoid valve 107 opens the connection with the refresh gas flow path 121 and closes the connection with the specimen flow path 122. This performs a refresh operation in which only the carrier gas is introduced into the measurement chamber 101 (step 506 shown in FIG. 6).

[0067] The time for the refreshing operation is determined in accordance with the sample and the operating method of the odor measuring device 100. The time for the refreshing operation is determined so that the sample in the measurement chamber 101 can be replaced with the carrier gas. After the refresh operation, the measurement is completed, and the measurement control terminal a acquires the measurement results (measurement values ​​of the odor sensor 201) (step 507 shown in FIG. 6).

[0068] The case of repeated measurements will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 7, steps 501 to 506 are the same as in the case of a single measurement (see FIG. 6). After step 506, information (measurement data) including the measurement value of odor sensor 201 is stored in measurement control terminal a (step 508). Next, the measurement control terminal a and the control circuit 111 check the current number of measurements (step 509). If the number of measurements has not reached the set number, the process returns to step 503. Steps 503 to 508 are repeated until the specified number of measurements is reached. If the number of measurements has reached the set number, the measurement is completed, and the measurement control terminal a obtains the measurement results including the measurement value of the odor sensor 201 (step 507).

[0069] The measurement results sent to the measurement control terminal a in step 507 or step 508 may be subjected to extraction and analysis of feature quantities based on the measured values ​​by the measurement control software and analysis software installed in the measurement control terminal a, and the odor substance being measured may be identified. As for these software, software with appropriate functions can be selected according to the odor sensor 201.

[0070] The measurement results and analysis results may be displayed on the display unit of the measurement control terminal a. The measurement results and analysis results may be stored in the cloud from the measurement control terminal a via a network. In this case, the measurement results and analysis results can be viewed from other client terminals connected to the network.

[0071] [Effects of the odor measuring device according to the embodiment] (1) Effect 1 In the odor measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the intake pump 102 is disposed downstream of the measurement chamber 101 in the gas flow direction. Therefore, gas (e.g., air) (sample) can be taken in from the external space (space outside the odor measuring device 1) through the sample flow path 122 and the inlet flow path 123, and the odor of that gas can be measured. Therefore, unlike odor measuring devices that have a structure in which odorous substances are generated in a sample container, there are fewer restrictions on the measurement target. This allows for a wider range of measurement targets in odor measurement.

[0072] The odor measuring device 1 of this embodiment does not use a sample container for accommodating a sample, and therefore there are fewer restrictions on the amount of sample, making it easy to perform continuous and repeated odor measurements.

[0073] (2) Effect 2 In the odor measurement device 1 of this embodiment, the temperature adjustment mechanism 103 is provided upstream of the measurement chamber 101 in the gas flow direction, making it possible to adjust the temperature of the specimen and carrier gas flowing through the upstream flow path (inlet flow path 123). This allows the specimen and carrier gas to be supplied to the measurement chamber 101 with their temperatures appropriately adjusted. Therefore, there are fewer restrictions on the volume of the temperature-adjusted gas compared to supplying gas whose temperature is adjusted inside a container. This makes it possible to achieve a continuous supply of temperature-adjusted specimen and carrier gas during odor measurement.

[0074] (3) Effect 3 In the odor measurement device 1 of this embodiment, the humidity control mechanism 104 is provided upstream of the measurement chamber 101 in the gas flow direction, making it possible to adjust the humidity of the specimen and carrier gas flowing through the upstream flow path (inlet flow path 123). This allows the specimen and carrier gas to be supplied to the measurement chamber 101 with their humidity appropriately adjusted. Therefore, there are fewer restrictions on the volume of gas to be humidity-adjusted compared to when humidity-adjusted gas is supplied in a container. This makes it possible to achieve a continuous supply of humidity-adjusted specimen and carrier gas during odor measurement.

[0075] (4) Effect 4 The odor measuring device 1 of this embodiment includes an introduction flow path 123 that introduces the specimen or carrier gas from the electromagnetic valve 107 to the measurement chamber 101. This configuration allows the configuration of the odor measuring device 1 to be simplified.

[0076] (5) Effect 5 The odor measuring device 1 of this embodiment includes an outlet flow path 124 that discharges gas from the measurement chamber 101. This configuration allows the configuration of the odor measuring device 1 to be simplified.

[0077] (6) Effect 6 The odor measuring device 1 of this embodiment includes the vibration isolation mechanism 202, which can suppress vibrations transmitted to the odor sensor 201. Therefore, a decrease in the detection accuracy of the odor sensor 201 can be suppressed.

[0078] (7) Effect 7 The temperature adjustment mechanism 103 includes temperature and humidity sensors 303a and 303b and a temperature adjuster 302, and therefore can achieve highly accurate temperature adjustment.

[0079] (8) Effect 8 The temperature adjustment mechanism 103 can improve the accuracy of temperature adjustment by adjusting the temperature of the gas in the temperature adjustment path 301 based on the measurement value of the temperature and humidity sensor 303b (that is, by performing feedback control).

[0080] (9) Effect 9 The humidity adjustment mechanism 104 includes temperature and humidity sensors 403a and 403b and a humidity adjuster 402, and therefore can achieve highly accurate humidity adjustment.

[0081] (10) Effect 10 The humidity adjustment mechanism 104 adjusts the temperature of the gas in the humidity adjustment path 401 based on the measurement value of the temperature and humidity sensor 403b (that is, performs feedback control), thereby improving the accuracy of the temperature adjustment.

[0082] Third Embodiment 10 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring device 2 according to one embodiment. Components common to other embodiments are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 10, odor measuring device 2 differs from odor measuring device 1 (see FIG. 2) in that it includes temperature adjustment mechanisms 103a and 103b and humidity adjustment mechanisms 104a and 104b instead of temperature adjustment mechanism 103 and humidity adjustment mechanism 104.

[0084] The temperature adjustment mechanism 103a and the humidity adjustment mechanism 104a are provided in the refresh gas flow path 121. The temperature adjustment mechanism 103a and the humidity adjustment mechanism 104a are disposed between the one-way valve 108a and the electromagnetic valve 107. The temperature adjustment mechanism 103b and the humidity adjustment mechanism 104b are provided in the specimen flow path 122. The temperature adjustment mechanism 103b and the humidity adjustment mechanism 104b are disposed between the one-way valve 108b and the solenoid valve 107.

[0085] In the odor measuring device 2, the refreshing gas flow path 121 and the specimen flow path 122 are each provided with a temperature adjustment mechanism and a humidity adjustment mechanism, so that the temperature and humidity can be adjusted for the carrier gas flowing through the refreshing gas flow path 121 and the specimen flowing through the specimen flow path 122. Therefore, the temperature and humidity of the carrier gas and the specimen can be adjusted with high precision.

[0086] 11 to 14 show modified examples of the odor measurement device. The odor measurement device of the embodiment can adopt the configurations of these modified examples of the odor measurement device as needed, depending on the desired characteristics.

[0087] <First Modification> 11 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring apparatus 3, which is a first modified example of the odor measuring apparatus. Components common to other embodiments are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0088] 11, odor measuring device 3 differs from odor measuring device 2 (see FIG. 10) in that a specimen container 112 is provided in specimen flow path 122. Specimen container 112 contains a specimen, which is an object to be measured.

[0089] <Second modified example> 12 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring apparatus 4, which is a second modified example of the odor measuring apparatus. Components common to other embodiments are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0090] As shown in Fig. 12, odor measuring device 4 differs from odor measuring device 3 (see Fig. 11), which is the first modified example, in that an air supply pump 102A is provided instead of air intake pump 102. Air supply pump 102A is provided in refresh gas flow path 121. Air supply pump 102A is provided upstream of filter 109a.

[0091] <Third Modification> 13 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring apparatus 5, which is a third modified example of the odor measuring apparatus. Components common to other embodiments are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0092] 13, odor measuring device 5 differs from odor measuring device 3 (see FIG. 11), which is the first modified example, in that it includes temperature adjustment mechanism 103 and humidity adjustment mechanism 104 instead of temperature adjustment mechanisms 103a and 103b and humidity adjustment mechanisms 104a and 104b. Temperature adjustment mechanism 103 and humidity adjustment mechanism 104 are provided in introduction flow path 123.

[0093] <Fourth Modification> 14 is a piping diagram showing the overall configuration of an odor measuring apparatus 6, which is a fourth modified example of the odor measuring apparatus. Components common to the other embodiments are given the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0094] 14, odor measuring device 6 differs from odor measuring device 4 (see FIG. 12), which is the first modified example, in that it includes temperature adjustment mechanism 103 and humidity adjustment mechanism 104 instead of temperature adjustment mechanisms 103a and 103b and humidity adjustment mechanisms 104a and 104b. Temperature adjustment mechanism 103 and humidity adjustment mechanism 104 are provided in introduction flow path 123.

[0095] The odor measuring device according to the embodiment can be implemented in the following modified forms. To incorporate into the measuring device a function for adjusting the temperature or humidity of the carrier gas to an optimum temperature or humidity for measurement, the carrier gas may be stored in advance in a buffer container or the like, and the temperature and humidity may be adjusted. The temperature and humidity of the carrier gas may also be adjusted in an isolated space.

[0096] The switching unit that switches between refresh gas flow path 121 and specimen flow path 122 may be configured to control the switching operation using a mechanism such as a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to use a microcomputer or similar device that can achieve the same function.

[0097] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present disclosure within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0098] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0099] (Appendix 1) an odor sensor that measures the odor of a sample that is a measurement target; a housing that houses the odor sensor; a refresh gas flow path that introduces a refresh gas into the housing; a sample flow path that guides the sample to the housing; a switching unit that switches the connection between the refresh gas flow path and the specimen flow path to the housing; an intake pump disposed downstream of the housing in the direction of flow of the specimen or the refresh gas; An odor measuring device comprising:

[0100] (Appendix 2) a temperature control mechanism for adjusting the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas is provided upstream of the housing in the direction of flow of the specimen or the refresh gas; 10. The odor measuring device according to claim 1.

[0101] (Appendix 3) a humidity control mechanism for adjusting the humidity of the specimen or the refresh gas is provided upstream of the housing in the direction of flow of the specimen or the refresh gas; 3. The odor measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0102] (Appendix 4) an introduction flow path that introduces the specimen or the refresh gas from the switching unit to the housing; 4. An odor measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 3.

[0103] (Appendix 5) further comprising an outlet flow path for discharging gas from the housing; The intake pump is provided in the outlet flow path. 5. An odor measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 4.

[0104] (Appendix 6) Further, a vibration-damping mechanism is provided to suppress vibrations transmitted to the odor sensor. 6. An odor measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 5.

[0105] (Appendix 7) The temperature adjustment mechanism includes a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas, and a temperature adjuster that adjusts the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the temperature sensor. 1. An odor measuring device as described in Appendix 2.

[0106] (Appendix 8) At least one of the temperature sensors measures the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas after passing through the temperature regulator; The temperature regulator adjusts the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the temperature sensor. 8. The odor measuring apparatus according to claim 7.

[0107] (Appendix 9) The humidity adjustment mechanism includes a humidity sensor that measures the humidity of the specimen or the refresh gas, and a humidity adjuster that adjusts the humidity of the specimen or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the humidity sensor. 1. An odor measuring device as described in Appendix 3.

[0108] (Appendix 10) At least one of the humidity sensors measures the humidity of the sample or the refresh gas after passing through the humidity adjuster; The humidity adjuster adjusts the humidity of the sample or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the humidity sensor. 10. The odor measuring device according to claim 9. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1,2,3,4,5,6 Odor measuring device 101 Measurement chamber (housing) 102 Intake pump 103 Temperature control mechanism 104 Humidity control mechanism 107 Solenoid valve (switching part) 121 Refresh gas flow path 122 Sample flow path 123 Inlet channel 124 Outlet channel 201 Odor Sensor 202 Anti-vibration mechanism 302 Temperature regulator 303a, 303b Temperature and humidity sensor (temperature sensor) 402 Humidity regulator 403a, 403b Temperature and humidity sensor (humidity sensor)

Claims

1. an odor sensor that measures the odor of a sample that is a measurement target; a housing that houses the odor sensor; a refresh gas flow path that introduces a refresh gas into the housing; a sample flow path that guides the sample to the housing; a switching unit that switches the connection between the refresh gas flow path and the specimen flow path to the housing; an intake pump disposed downstream of the housing in the direction of flow of the specimen or the refresh gas; An odor measuring device comprising:

2. a temperature control mechanism for adjusting the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas is provided upstream of the housing in the direction of flow of the specimen or the refresh gas; The odor measuring device according to claim 1.

3. a humidity control mechanism for adjusting the humidity of the specimen or the refresh gas is provided upstream of the housing in the direction of flow of the specimen or the refresh gas; The odor measuring device according to claim 1.

4. an introduction flow path that introduces the specimen or the refresh gas from the switching unit to the housing; The odor measuring device according to claim 1.

5. further comprising an outlet flow path for discharging gas from the housing; The intake pump is provided in the outlet flow path. The odor measuring device according to claim 1.

6. Further, a vibration-damping mechanism is provided to suppress vibrations transmitted to the odor sensor. The odor measuring device according to claim 1.

7. The temperature adjustment mechanism includes a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas, and a temperature adjuster that adjusts the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the temperature sensor.

3. The odor measuring device according to claim 2.

8. At least one of the temperature sensors measures the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas after passing through the temperature regulator; The temperature regulator adjusts the temperature of the specimen or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the temperature sensor. The odor measuring device according to claim 7.

9. The humidity adjustment mechanism includes a humidity sensor that measures the humidity of the specimen or the refresh gas, and a humidity adjuster that adjusts the humidity of the specimen or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the humidity sensor. The odor measuring device according to claim 3.

10. At least one of the humidity sensors measures the humidity of the sample or the refresh gas after passing through the humidity adjuster; The humidity regulator adjusts the humidity of the sample or the refresh gas based on the measurement value of the humidity sensor. The odor measuring device according to claim 9.

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