Systems and methods for the analysis of waste products

Abstract

This invention provides a system and method for obtaining vector air analyte data, which can assist in determining one or more sources of emissions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001]

[0001] This invention relates to a system and method for obtaining vector air analyte data, which can assist in determining one or more sources of emissions.

Background Art

[0002]

[0002] Air quality is becoming an important environmental and health issue. Therefore, there is an increasing need to be able to effectively monitor air quality and determine the sources of emissions (e.g., benzene, methane, and particulate matter). Determining the sources of emissions is an ongoing problem because there are environmental regulations that the industry must follow and that pertain to government and other environmental air quality monitoring agencies.

[0003]

[0003] For emissions from valve leaks, storage tank leaks, loading activities, and other manufacturing activities, as well as events such as spills and accidental releases, it is important to identify them as quickly as possible in order to more rapidly evaluate and implement necessary mitigation measures. Identifying the source and measuring the relative concentrations of species in the emissions is necessary to determine acute, chronic, and environmental exposures and to comply with environmentally regulated and permitted conditions.

[0004]

[0004] Several products and methods are available for determining the sources and leaks of air emissions. Some methods involve a person walking around with a handheld sensor and performing tests at various locations to determine emissions and their sources. Other methods use a handheld infrared camera system to determine the area where emissions (leaks) are occurring. Still another method uses a combination of air sensors and high-precision gas sensors, and sometimes weather data as well, to supply data to one or more models to determine the source of the emissions.

[0005]

[0005] There is a need for a method to directly measure data and correlate that data with waste data. [Overview of the project]

[0006]

[0006] This invention provides a method for determining, recording, and displaying the direction in which one or more substances (emissions) are moving during measurement. The system and method of this invention can deal with emissions because it can determine one or more sources of a substance when one or more substances (emissions) are released. Displaying data from each air sample is an advantage of the system and method of this invention, especially when the data is made available in real time via a repository that allows real-time access to the data.

[0007]

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention is a system for obtaining vector air analyte data, the system is Each detector array has a position and each detector array i) An air analyzer comprising an air intake configured to obtain air samples over time, and configured to analyze the air samples obtained over time through the air intake to produce information on the analytes of the air samples. ii) An anemometer positioned in the same location as the air analyzer and configured to measure wind speed and wind direction simultaneously with obtaining the air sample, iii) A transmitter for sending detector array data, which includes information on the air sample analyte, the time at which each air sample was obtained, the wind speed and wind direction at each time each air sample was obtained, and information indicating the position of the detector array. One or more detector arrays including, A repository for storing the detector array data after receiving it from the transmitter, A data processing device having machine-readable logical instructions, wherein when the logical instructions are executed by a central processing unit, the data processing device processes at least a portion of the detector array data to produce one or more signals that can be converted into one or more display images representing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form.

[0008]

[0008] Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for assembling a system for obtaining vector air analyte data. Multiple embodiments of the present invention include a method for obtaining vector air analyte data.

[0009]

[0009] These and other embodiments and features of the present invention will become further apparent from the following description and the appended claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a preferred system of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a computer screen diagram showing air analyte data according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A shows air analyte data over a certain period of time for two detector array locations superimposed on a map of the facility, where the detector arrays are arranged according to the embodiment in Figure 2, and the series of graphs on the left are for specific substances at several detector array locations. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is an enlarged view of the series of graphs shown in Figure 3A. [Figure 3C] Figure 3C is an enlarged view of the vectors superimposed on the map of the chemical plant shown in Figure 3A. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011]

[0015] The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of specific features of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0012]

[0016] Throughout this document, the terms “emissions (singular)” and “emissions (plural)” refer to one or more substances measured when this invention is implemented. These substances may also be called contaminants or pollutants. Typically, one or more substances pose a risk to human health and are often regulated by government agencies. Substance(single or more) may be one or more chemical substances, particulate matter, or other species that the air analyzer can detect.

[0013]

[0017] The system of the present invention includes one or more detector arrays, a transmitter for sending detector array data, a repository for storing the detector array data after receiving it from the transmitter, and a data processing unit, the data processing unit having machine-readable logical instructions, which, when executed by a central processing unit, process at least a portion of the detector array data to produce one or more signals that can be converted into one or more display images representing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form.

[0014]

[0018] Each detector array has a location, which can be referenced to a convenient fixed point, and preferably, the location is a geographical location. Each detector array includes an air analyzer, an anemometer located at the same position as the air analyzer, and a transmitter for sending detector array data, the detector array data including information on the air sample analyte, the time at which each air sample was obtained, the wind speed and wind direction at each time each air sample was obtained, and information indicating the location of the detector array.

[0015]

[0019] Each air analyzer includes an air intake. The air intake is configured to obtain individual air samples over time for analysis by the air analyzer. The air analyzer is configured to analyze the air samples obtained from the air intake over time to produce information about the air sample analytes. The air intake can be passive or active, as desired.

[0016]

[0020] Each air analyzer includes one or more specific substance sensors and / or multi-substance analyzers. In preferred embodiments, each air analyzer includes one or more specific substance sensors or multi-substance analyzers. When an air analyzer includes one or more specific substance sensors, the number and type of specific substance sensors may vary depending on the needs of a particular location (e.g., within a chemical plant) or a particular situation (such as an event like a train accident that causes a chemical leak). Specific substance sensors include, but are not limited to, carbon monoxide sensors, carbon dioxide sensors, methane sensors, and particulate sensors. In some embodiments, specific substance sensors are selected from carbon monoxide sensors, carbon dioxide sensors, methane sensors, and / or particulate sensors. In some embodiments where the air analyzer includes more than one specific substance sensor, the specific substance sensors may be in the form of a sensor array. Multi-substance analyzers are typically gas chromatographs (GCs) or multi-substance sensors, with gas chromatographs sometimes preferred. Gas chromatographs have, but are not limited to, detector types that can be photoionization detectors, electron capture detectors, flame ionization detectors, and mass spectrometer detectors. Preferably, gas chromatographs with a mass spectrometer detector (GC-MS) are used. In some specific embodiments, the air analyzer is an environmental gas chromatograph, preferably a mobile and field-operated environmental gas chromatograph. One such environmental gas chromatograph, available from ENMET, LLC, is equipped with a photoionization detector and is often used to detect aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene.

[0017]

[0021] Each anemometer is positioned in the same location as the individual air analyzers, and each anemometer is configured to measure wind speed and direction simultaneously with obtaining each air sample.

[0018]

[0022] One or more air analyzers and one or more wind gauges can be commercially available air analyzers and wind gauges. Suitable wind gauges are automatic, mechanical, or solid-state wind gauges. In some embodiments, a suitable mechanical wind gauge is the Heavy Duty Wind Minitor commercially available from the R.M. Young Company.

[0019]

[0023] Each detector array includes a transmitter for sending detector array data, which includes air sample analyte information, the time at which each air sample was obtained, the wind speed and wind direction at each time at which each air sample was obtained, and information indicating the position of the detector array. The transmitter provides for the transmission of detector array data to a repository. The transmitter includes wired or wireless transmission, and wireless transmission may not be suitable in some locations. Preferably, the transmitter for sending detector array data includes a wireless transmitter configured to send detector array data to a global computer network that communicates with a repository for storage.

[0020]

[0024] The repository in which the detector array data is stored can be any storage medium capable of storing computer data, including computer hard drives, solid-state storage devices, flash drives, RAM, ROM, removable computer data storage media, local network services, and cloud-based data storage systems. Suitable repositories include computer hard drives, solid-state drives, removable computer data storage media, and cloud-based data storage systems. A suitable repository is constructed to allow access to all detector array data from any time frame in which the detector array data was collected, including real-time or near real-time data.

[0021]

[0025] Detector array data includes air sample analyte information, the time at which each air sample was obtained, the wind speed (velocity) and direction at each time when the air sample was obtained, and information indicating the location of the detector array where the data was collected. The detector array data in the repository can be reexamined when convenient. More preferably, the detector array data can be viewed in real time. Since there is a slight delay in sample analysis and data transmission, it is understood that real time includes near real time.

[0022]

[0026] Air sample analyte information includes the identity of the analyte and its concentration. The term "time" used throughout this document includes the (calendar) date unless otherwise specified. Also, the location of the detector is treated as the location of the air analyzer and wind meter at the same location, and the location where the air sample is obtained. In some embodiments, the location of the detector array is represented in relation to a fixed point close to one or more of the detector arrays. In a preferred embodiment, the location of each detector array is represented as a geographical location.

[0023]

[0027] In some embodiments, the location where the air sample is obtained includes the height of the air intake, i.e., the height where the air sample is obtained.

[0024]

[0028] The system includes a data processing device having machine-readable logic instructions, which when executed by a central processing unit, processes at least a portion of the detector array data to create one or more signals that can be converted into one or more display images representing the detector array data in a form perceivable by a human. In a preferred embodiment, the system is configured to enable access to the detector array data in real time, whereby the data provides one or more real-time wind directions around the air analyzer(s) that detected the substance(s).

[0025]

[0029] Computer programs used in one or more central processing units that communicate operationally with a data repository and produce output that can be sent to the system's display are typically written in one or more different computer languages ​​and compiled into an executable form suitable for execution by the processing unit(s) in use. Computer software programming languages ​​are usually one or more of SQL, C, Javascript, and HTML, and in one embodiment, the computer software programming language is a combination of SQL, C, Javascript, and HTML.

[0026]

[0030] Detector array data can be viewed for a single location taken over time, or for multiple locations at one time point in time or at one or more points in time. Preferably, detector array data can be viewed for multiple locations over a period of time, typically, the multiple locations are in the same area, usually adjacent to each other. Detector array data provides a record, preferably graphically, showing the wind direction for one or more detected substances and the corresponding concentrations (one or more) of the detected substances in real time and over one or more selected time periods.

[0027]

[0031] In some embodiments, the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form may be in the form of a spreadsheet, a table, or one or more graphs. One way to display the detector array data in graph format is to have one graph per detector array, with time on the x-axis and separate lines (and scales) on the y-axis for analyte concentration and wind speed, and optionally showing a desired limit or threshold for the analyte concentration shown in the graph.

[0028]

[0032] In another embodiment, the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form is in the form of a graphical representation, preferably a vector. Generally, each vector displayed represents the wind speed and direction at the time the air sample was obtained.

[0029]

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the vector displays the concentration (1 or more) of a substance (1 or more) in the obtained and analyzed air sample, the wind speed and direction, and the time the air sample was obtained. The vector representation preferably indicates the direction of movement of the air analyzer to the air intake. The vector representation helps determine the source of the analyte (1 or more) being measured and may indicate proximity to points of concern, such as the enclosure of industrial equipment. To determine the source of emissions, data over a period of time, including wind speed and direction, addresses the issue of wind variability and allows the vector to indicate one or more possible sources of emissions. In some preferred embodiments, the graphical representation, preferably a vector, is displayed on a map of the area where the detector arrays (1 or more) are located, the map being a city map, an aerial map, or a georeferenced aerial or satellite photograph showing the location of each detector array.

[0030]

[0034] In some embodiments where the display image is in the form of a graphical representation, the graphical representation describes an obstacle present in the wind direction at the height of the air intake, which typically limits the length of the vector from the obstacle at the height of the air intake. Obstacles are such as pipelines, storage tanks, walls, and buildings.

[0031]

[0035] In preferred embodiments where the display image is in the form of a graphical representation, the detector array data can be displayed differently to indicate that it is approaching and / or reaching or exceeding a pre-selected value with respect to one or more air analytes, and preferably the graphical representation is part of the vector representation. In some preferred embodiments, for each set of collected detector array data, a color-coded vector is drawn to indicate the direction of airflow toward the air intake in angles. More preferably, each color represents a separate concentration range of the analyte being measured (one or more). The air analyte concentration range for each vector color can be selected to conform to the range of interest, for example, the range can be selected such that the upper limit is a specified limit with respect to the substance or near it, or when the air analyte concentration exceeds the upper limit that the analyzer can quantify.

[0032]

[0036] In another preferred embodiment, the display image of detector array data from a selected time set is displayed in chronological order, preferably the detector array data from the selected time set can be stopped or advanced and / or reversed along the chronological order, and more preferably the graphical representation is vector. Once any time and one or more detector array positions are selected, the detector array data is displayed, preferably in a video format, with respect to the selected detector array positions (one or more), in chronological order, with respect to all detector array data taken over the selected time period. Preferably, if more than one substance is being monitored, one or more substances can be selected. More preferably, control over the software allows the user to stop, advance in reverse, or advance the display in chronological order. In some preferred displays, when detector array data is used over a period of time in chronological order, all data is left on the display ("trail"), more preferably older data begins to fade ("ghost") and newer data is made relatively brighter.

[0033]

[0037] In a particular preferred embodiment, detector array data for one or more selected analysis locations, preferably an area surrounded by a system of detector arrays, is displayed on a city map, an aerial map, or a georeferenced aerial or satellite photograph, indicating the location of each detector array that is part of the selected analysis locations.

[0034]

[0038] In other preferred embodiments where the display image is in the form of a graphical representation, the display image is displayed in such a way that it can indicate that with respect to one or more analytes, it is approaching, reaching, or exceeding a pre-selected value, preferably the graphical representation is part of a vector representation, the display image of detector array data from a selected time set is displayed in chronological order, preferably the detector array data displayed from the selected time set can be stopped or advanced and / or reversed along the chronological order, and more preferably the graphical representation is a vector.

[0035]

[0039] In some preferred embodiments, the display is preferably a graphical representation, and when the cursor hovers over a particular representation (preferably a vector) in the display ("mouseover"), the cursor hovers over the display brings up a pop-up display of detector array data for a particular detector at a selected time. Preferably, the pop-up display is available when at least a portion of the detector array data is used in chronological order over time, and when the chronological order is stopped at a selected time.

[0036]

[0040] In particularly preferred embodiments, the system and method of this invention provide a combination of quantitative analysis of one or more substances (air sample information) and simultaneous anemometer data collected in an Internet-connected repository, and an application that displays directional vectors for each set of detector array data for a selected area, often a geographically defined area, over time.

[0037]

[0041] In a method for assembling the system of the present invention, an anemometer can be placed together with an already placed air analyzer, and the air analyzer and anemometer can be placed together in the same location. In some cases, there are combinations of placing one or more anemometers in the same location as one or more already placed analyzers, and placing one or more air analyzers and one or more anemometers in the same location. If a transmitter is not present with the air analyzer and / or anemometer, the transmitter is connected to the air analyzer and / or anemometer as needed.

[0038]

[0042] Detector arrays are typically positioned within the premises of industrial facilities such as chemical plants and refineries, near residential areas, or around environmental releases (e.g., ruptured storage tanks or train accidents) to determine the source of emissions, thereby enabling the identification of the source of emissions to minimize or stop leaks and / or determine whether emissions are moving towards sensitive residents or facilities.

[0039]

[0043] The air intake, air analyzer, anemometer, transmitter for sending detector array data, repository, data processing unit, and selections for them are as described above.

[0040]

[0044] In the present invention's method for obtaining vector air analyte data, each time an air sample is analyzed, the repository records and stores the following data: information indicating the location of the detector array, the time the air sample was obtained, air sample analyte information including the identity and quantity (concentration) of the substance (one or more), wind speed (usually in miles or kilometers per hour), and preferably wind direction in degrees relative to true north. Preferably, a correction from magnetic north to true north is made for each set of collected detector array data. Suitable algorithms for this correction are those called "Magnetic Field Calculators" supplied by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) from its National Centers for Environmental Information. The information indicating the location of the detector array may be an identifier for the specific detector array producing the detector array data, because the detector array is in a fixed position and this information does not need to be remeasured for each air sample.

[0041]

[0045] In the method of the present invention, air sampling and data collection are preferably performed at a preset interval, for example, every minute, every 10 minutes, every 30 minutes, or every hour, but can also be operated by manual commands. Air sampling and data collection can be performed at any time of day or night, as desired.

[0042]

[0046] Detector array data can be displayed on paper or a computer screen, and in a preferred embodiment, the detector array data is displayed on the screen of a mobile device, and more preferably, the detector array data is displayed on the screen of a mobile device in real time.

[0043]

[0047] Figure 1 shows a preferred system of the present invention, which includes a detector array A including i) an air analyzer 1 including an air intake 2, and ii) an anemometer 3 positioned in the same location as the air analyzer 1. Also shown are a transmitter 4 in the form of an Internet-connected wireless transmitter for sending detector array data, a preferred repository in the form of a storage medium 6, and a display means in the form of a computer screen 7. The storage medium 6 is typically understood to communicate with a central processing unit or other data processing unit to retrieve the array data 5 for general output in response to commands and queries made by a user interfaced with the system via a computer or handheld device, and this is secure communication between the medium 6 and the associated data processing unit. A computer screen 7 can be a component of a personal computer or a mobile device such as a cell phone, laptop, or other handheld device, the personal computer or mobile device being able to receive data signals over an internet connection (typically over a cellular or wireless network connection) using the Internet Protocol or other communication protocols, and the processing unit within the mobile device or personal computer being able to run software applications that facilitate the processing of output signals to produce a display and the interface between the user and other parts of the system.

[0044]

[0048] Figure 2 shows the computer screen 7 of Figure 1 as a representation of air analyte data. In Figure 2, detector array A is shown with a new vector 9 that is darker or brighter in color than the previous vector 8 in time, where vectors 8 and 9 may be colored (e.g., light blue or blue) to indicate that the analyte concentration is below a preset value, and vector 10 may be colored (e.g., red) to indicate that the analyte concentration is at or above a preset value. Graph 11 shows preset values ​​for analyte concentration with a horizontal straight line, analyte concentration with a wavy line below the horizontal straight line, and wind speed with a wavy line mostly above the horizontal straight line. In a preferred display, which is preferably a graphical representation, when the cursor is stopped over a particular representation (preferably a vector) on the display, the cursor stopping (or "mouse over") brings up a pop-up display 12 on the display of detector array data for a particular detector at a selected time. Rectangle item 13 represents the detector array data playback controller, which allows for the display of at least a portion of the detector array data over time in chronological order, the stopping and / or reversing of chronological playback, and the selection of the time period for which the detector array data is displayed. Rectangle 14 represents the computer menu, which allows for the selection of one or more detector arrays to be displayed, and the display of data in various ways for various concentration ranges regarding air analytes data. Rectangle 15 represents the computer menu (as a button) created by the data processing unit, which allows for the selection of the type of map for overlaying a graphical representation of the detector array data, and the map type can be a city map, an aerial map or photograph, or a satellite photograph. Rectangle 16 represents the computer menu option that allows the air analytes data to be displayed and / or downloaded as a spreadsheet. The unlabeled rectangle surrounding the circle represents a set of storage tanks in a chemical plant.

[0045]

[0049] Figure 3A is a preferred view of the computer screen 7 of Figure 1, overlaid on an aerial photograph of the facility where the detector arrays are located, showing air analyte data over a period of time for two detector arrays A located at different positions. The series of graphs 11 on the left side of the figure pertain to specific substances at several detector array positions. Similar to Figure 2, each graph 11 shows a preset value for analyte concentration as a horizontal line, analyte concentration as a wavy line below or mostly below the horizontal line, and wind speed as a wavy line, often above the horizontal line. Each graph, with the exception of the bottom graph showing calibration data, pertains to a different detector array position. Two detector arrays A located at different positions are shown in Figure 3A, with vectors 8 and 9 to the left detector array A and vectors 10 and 10a to the right detector array A. Vectors 10 and 10a can be colored (e.g., red) to indicate that the analyte concentration has exceeded a user-set limit or threshold, while vectors 8 and 9 can be colored (e.g., blue or green) to indicate that the analyte concentration is below a user-set limit or threshold. Vectors 8 and 9 are shown with newer vectors 9 being darker or lighter than the temporally preceding vector 8, and vectors 10 and 10a are shown with newer vectors 10 being darker or lighter than the temporally preceding vector 10a. To the right of the bottom graph is a rectangular item 13, which represents a detector array data regeneration controller similar to the rectangular item 13 in Figure 2, preferably having the features of the regeneration controller described in Figure 2. In Figure 3A, a computer menu 14 is displayed in the lower right corner, which, similar to the rectangle 14 in Figure 2, allows selection of one or more detector arrays to be displayed, and also allows displaying data for various concentration ranges regarding air analyte data.In Figure 3A, there are two small rectangles in the upper right corner. Similar to rectangles 15 and 16 in Figure 2, one rectangle 15 represents a computer menu (as a button) created by the data processing unit, which allows the selection of the map type for overlaying a graphical representation of the detector array data. The map type can be a city map, an aerial map or photograph, or a satellite photograph. The other rectangle 16 represents a computer menu option (as a button) that allows the air analyte data to be displayed and / or downloaded as a spreadsheet. Rectangle 12, containing text near the center of Figure 3A, is similar to 12 in Figure 2, and is a pop-up display of detector array data on the display with respect to the vector of a particular detector array at a selected time, caused by the cursor stopping (or "mouse over").

[0046]

[0050] Figure 3B is a magnified view of the series of graphs 11 shown in Figure 3A. Each of these graphs relates to the same analyte at different detector positions over the same time period, and is similar to graph 11 shown in Figure 2. In Figure 3B, each graph 11 shows a preset value for analyte concentration as a horizontal straight line, analyte concentration as a wavy line below or mostly below the horizontal line, and wind speed as a wavy line, often above the horizontal line. Each graph relates to a different detector array position, with the exception of the bottom graph which displays calibration data.

[0047]

[0051] Figure 3C shows a magnified view of the vectors in Figure 3A superimposed on an aerial photograph of a chemical plant with detector array A positioned as shown in Figure 3A. Figure 3C includes a pop-up display 12 (a light-colored rectangle) similar to the pop-up display 12 in Figure 2. Vectors 8 and 9 in Figure 3C from detector array A on the left are shown with newer vectors 9 being darker or lighter in color than the previous vector 8 in time, and vectors 8 and 9 can be colored (e.g., blue or green) to indicate that the analyte concentration is below a user-set limit or threshold. Vectors from detector array A on the right are shown with newer vectors 10 being darker or lighter in color than the previous vector 10a in time, and vectors 10 and 10a can be colored (e.g., red) to indicate that the analyte concentration has exceeded a user-set limit or threshold. Vectors 8, 9, 10, and 10a are shown superimposed on an aerial photograph of a chemical plant. Depending on the height of the detector array, the vectors may not be able to account for obstacles present in the wind direction at the height of the air intake, and the leftmost vector is shown extending beyond the storage tank (white circle).

[0048]

[0052] As demonstrated herein, the system and method of the present invention can be used to analyze air analytes located in various geographical locations, and where it is desirable to monitor ambient air with respect to the analytes of interest over a certain period of time, it can facilitate the rapid determination of their directional sources and concentrations over a target range.

[0049]

[0053] In this specification and claims, components referred to by chemical names or formulas, singular or plural, are identified as existing prior to contact with other substances referred to by chemical names or chemical types (e.g., other components, solvents, etc.). The question is whether any chemical changes, transformations, and / or reactions, if any, occur in the resulting mixture or solvent, for such changes, transformations, and / or reactions are natural consequences of combining the specified components under the conditions required in accordance with this disclosure. Thus, components are identified as raw materials that are combined in connection with performing the desired action or in the formation of the desired compound. Furthermore, in the claims below, substances, components, and / or raw materials may be referred to in the present tense (e.g., "contains," "is," etc.), for such reference is to the substance, component, or raw material, for it existed immediately before it was first contacted, prepared, or mixed with one or more other substances, components, and / or raw materials in accordance with this disclosure. If the actions of contact, preparation, or mixing are performed in accordance with this disclosure and by a chemist of ordinary skill, then the fact that a substance, component, or raw material may lose its original uniqueness through chemical reactions or transformations during the process is therefore of no practical importance.

[0050]

[0054] This invention includes, consists of, or essentially comprises the materials and / or procedures described herein.

[0051]

[0055] The term “approximately” modifying the quantities of raw materials used in the compounds of the present invention or in the methods of the present invention refers to variations in numerical quantities that may occur, for example, through typical measurement and liquid handling procedures used in the real world to produce concentrates or solvents, and through unintended errors in these procedures, and through differences in the production, source, or purity of the raw materials used to produce the compounds or perform the methods. The term “approximately” also includes different quantities resulting from various equilibrium conditions with respect to the compounds obtained from a particular initial mixture. Whether modified by the term “approximately” or not, the claims include those quantities and their equivalents.

[0052]

[0056] Unless specifically indicated otherwise, the articles “a” or “an,” as used herein, are not intended to, and should not be interpreted as, limiting the scope of the description and claim to a single element to which the article refers. Rather, the articles “a” or “an,” as used herein, are intended to cover one or more such elements unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the text.

[0053]

[0057] This invention can be considerably modified when put into practice. Therefore, the above description is not intended to limit the invention to the specific examples shown above, nor should it be construed as limiting it.

Claims

1. A system for obtaining vector air analyte data, Each detector array has a position and each detector array i) An air analyzer comprising an air intake configured to obtain air samples over time, and configured to analyze the air samples obtained over time through the air intake to produce information on the analytes of the air samples. ii) An anemometer positioned in the same location as the air analyzer and configured to measure wind speed and wind direction at the same time as obtaining the air sample, and iii) A transmitter for sending detector array data, which includes the air sample analyte information, the time at which each air sample was obtained, the wind speed and wind direction at each time each air sample was obtained, and information indicating the position of the detector array. One or more detector arrays including, A repository for storing the detector array data after receiving it from the transmitter, A data processing device having machine-readable logical instructions, wherein when the logical instructions are executed by a central processing unit, the data processing device processes at least a portion of the detector array data and generates one or more signals that can be converted into one or more display images representing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form. A system that includes this.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the air analyzer comprises one or more sensors for specific substances, the optional sensors for specific substances being selected from a carbon monoxide sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, a methane sensor, and / or a particulate sensor.

3. A system according to claim 1, wherein the air analyzer is a multi-substance analyzer, and optionally the multi-substance analyzer is a gas chromatograph or a multi-substance sensor.

4. A system according to claim 1, wherein the transmitter for sending detector array data includes a wireless transmitter configured to send the detector array data to a global computer network that communicates with the repository for storage.

5. A system according to claim 1, wherein the information indicating the position of the detector array is a geographical location.

6. A system according to claim 1, wherein the wind direction is corrected from magnetic north to true north.

7. A system according to claim 1, wherein the repository is a computer hard drive, a solid-state drive, a removable computer data storage medium, or a cloud-based data storage system.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form is a spreadsheet, a table, or one or more graphs or graphical representations, and optionally the graphical representation is a vector.

9. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the position includes the height of the air intake.

10. A system according to claim 9, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form is a graphical representation, and the graphical representation describes obstacles present in the wind direction at the height of the air intake.

11. A system according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible manner indicates that a preset value has been reached or exceeded with respect to at least a portion of the air sample analyte information.

12. A system according to any of claims 8-11, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible manner displays detector array data from a selected time set in sequence, and optionally the detector data from the selected time set can be stopped or advanced and / or reversed along the sequence.

13. A system according to any one of claims 9-12, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form displays the detector array data in the form of a graphical representation, and the graphical representation is a vector.

14. A method for assembling a system for obtaining vector air analyte data, A process for forming one or more detector arrays, each having its own position, by placing an anemometer in the same position as an air analyzer, Each anemometer is configured to obtain an air sample and simultaneously measure wind speed and direction. Each air analyzer includes an air intake configured to obtain a corresponding air sample over time, and each air analyzer is configured to analyze the air sample obtained over time by each of the air intakes to produce air sample analyte information. A transmitter is connected to send detector array data, which includes the air sample analysis information, the time at which each air sample was obtained, the wind speed and wind direction at each time each air sample was obtained, and information indicating the position of the detector array. The process to make it so, The process involves connecting the transmitter for sending detector array data to a repository where the detector array data is stored, The process involves connecting a data processing device having machine-readable logical instructions, wherein when the logical instructions are executed by a central processing unit, the data processing device processes at least a portion of the detector array data to produce one or more signals that can be converted into one or more display images representing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form, to the repository. A method that includes this.

15. A method according to claim 14, comprising the step of arranging one or more air analyzers and transmitters together with the anemometer.

16. The method according to claim 14, wherein the air analyzer comprises one or more specific substance sensors, each specific substance sensor optionally selected from a carbon monoxide sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, a methane sensor, and / or a particulate sensor.

17. The method according to claim 14, wherein the air analyzer is a multi-substance analyzer, and optionally the multi-substance analyzer is a gas chromatograph or a multi-substance sensor.

18. A method according to claim 14, wherein the transmitter for sending detector array data includes a wireless transmitter configured to send the detector array data to a global computer network that communicates with the repository for storage.

19. A method according to claim 14, wherein the respective geographical locations of the air analyzer and the anemometer are determined by global positioning satellite information, with a correction from magnetic north to true north.

20. A method according to claim 14, wherein the information indicating the position of the detector array is a geographical location.

21. A method according to claim 14, wherein the wind direction is corrected from magnetic north to true north.

22. The method according to claim 14, wherein the repository is a computer hard drive, a solid-state drive, a removable computer data storage medium, or a cloud-based data storage system.

23. A method according to claim 14, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form is a spreadsheet, a table, or one or more graphs or graphical representations, and optionally the graphical representation is a vector.

24. A method according to any one of claims 14-23, wherein the position includes the height of the air intake.

25. A method according to claim 24, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form is a graphical representation, and the graphical representation describes obstacles present in the wind direction at the height of the air intake.

26. A method according to any one of claims 23-25, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible manner indicates that a preset value has been reached or exceeded with respect to at least a portion of the air sample analyte information.

27. A method according to any one of claims 24-26, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible manner displays detector array data from a selected set of time in sequence, and optionally the detector data from the selected set of time can be stopped or advanced and / or reversed along the sequence.

28. A method according to any one of claims 24-27, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form displays the detector array data in the form of a graphical representation, the graphical representation being a vector.

29. A method for obtaining vector air spectrometry data, A process for generating detector array data from a detector array including i) an air analyzer, ii) an anemometer positioned at the same location as the air analyzer, and iii) a transmitter, The air sample is obtained using an air intake, which includes a part of the aforementioned air analyzer and is configured to obtain each air sample over time; and the air analyzer is configured to analyze the air samples obtained over time through the air intake to produce information about the air sample analytes. The process involves analyzing the air sample obtained by the air analyzer to generate information about the air sample analyte, Simultaneously with obtaining the aforementioned air sample, the wind speed and wind direction are measured using the anemometer, The detector array data includes the air sample analyte information, the time at which each air sample was obtained, the wind speed and wind direction at each time each air sample was obtained, and information indicating the position of the detector array. The manufacturing process, which includes, A step of sending the detector array data using the transmitter for sending the detector array data, The process of receiving the detector array data from the transmitter and storing it in a repository, The process involves processing at least a portion of the detector array data from the repository into a form perceptible to humans via a data processing device that has machine-readable logical instructions, and when the logical instructions are executed by a central processing unit, processes at least a portion of the detector array data to produce one or more signals that can be converted into one or more display images representing the detector array data in a form perceptible to humans. A method that includes this.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein the air analyzer comprises one or more sensors for specific substances, the sensor for specific substances optionally selected from a carbon monoxide sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, a methane sensor, and / or a particulate sensor.

31. The method of claim 28, wherein the air analyzer is a multi-substance analyzer, and optionally the multi-substance analyzer is a gas chromatograph or a multi-substance sensor.

32. A method according to claim 29, wherein the transmitter for sending detector array data includes a wireless transmitter configured to send the detector array data to a global computer network that communicates with the repository for storage.

33. A method according to claim 29, wherein the information indicating the position of the detector array is a geographical location.

34. A method according to claim 29, wherein the wind direction is corrected from magnetic north to true north.

35. The method according to claim 29, wherein the repository is a computer hard drive, a removable computer data storage medium, a solid-state drive, or a cloud-based data storage system.

36. A method according to claim 29, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form is a spreadsheet, a table, or one or more graphs or graphical representations, and optionally the graphical representation is a vector.

37. A method according to any one of claims 29-36, wherein the position includes the height of the air intake.

38. A method according to claim 37, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form is a graphical representation, and the graphical representation describes obstacles present in the wind direction at the height of the air intake.

39. A method according to any one of claims 37-38, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible manner indicates that a preset value has been reached or exceeded with respect to at least a portion of the air sample analyte information.

40. A method according to any one of claims 37-39, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible manner displays detector array data from a selected set of time in sequence, and optionally the detector data from the selected set of time can be stopped or advanced and / or reversed along the sequence.

41. A method according to any one of claims 37-40, wherein the display image showing the detector array data in a human-perceptible form displays the detector array data in the form of a graphical representation, the graphical representation being a vector.

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