Remote air collection and monitoring

Abstract

To provide an air collection system and an air monitoring method for an aircraft.SOLUTION: An air monitoring system with a controller 124 in a computer system 122 operates to control a pump system 118 to move air from a collection port 114 for a cavity 124 as diverted air to a tube 136 connected to the collection port, move the diverted air into an input port 148 of an air interface 116 connected to the tube, through a chamber 144 in the air interface, and out of a pump port 152 of the air interface, without increasing a pressure of the diverted air to be greater than a pressure level for a gas analyzer system 120 analyzing an air sample collected from the diverted air. The controller operates to control the gas analyzer system connected to a sampling port 150 in the air interface by a probe 160 so as to obtain the air sample from the diverted air moving through the air interface and analyze the air sample to measure a set of components in the air sample.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure particularly relates to an air collection system and an air monitoring method for aircraft.

Background Art

[0002] In aircraft, air may be sampled for various reasons. For example, air sampling can be used in the design and testing of aircraft. For example, in relation to humidity control in an aircraft, an air flow may occur in the cavity between the insulation blanket and the outer fuselage skin of the aircraft. The air flow can occur during flight of the aircraft where frost, condensation, or both may occur. This air flow can cause undesirable moisture transfer. For example, if condensation occurs in an undesirable location, water may enter the passenger cabin. An aircraft can be designed to control the air flow by moving moisture to a drain collector to reduce the moisture that can cause undesirable situations within the aircraft due to water.

[0003] Air sampling can be used to detect air flow as part of the design and test process. This air sampling involves injecting a gas into cavities in the aircraft where it is desirable to control moisture. For example, a gas such as xenon can be injected at a given location within the cavity between the insulation blanket and the outer skin. [[ID=I]]

[0004] By collecting and analyzing air samples from various locations within the cavity, it can be determined whether the injected gas is present at these locations. The detection of the gas at these various locations within the cavity is utilized to analyze the air flow. This analysis is performed, for example, to determine whether sufficient humidity control is being achieved or to modify the design of the aircraft so that the desired humidity control is achieved within these cavities.

[0005] As another example, air sampling can be performed to determine the air quality inside an aircraft. Air samples can be collected from various locations within the aircraft, such as the passenger cabin and cargo hold. These air samples can be analyzed to determine the air quality during the aircraft's operation.

[0006] For example, air samples can be collected during an aircraft flight to identify air quality issues such as odors or the presence of undesirable gases. Real-time monitoring allows for the identification of these air quality problems and subsequent solutions.

[0007] For example, by collecting and analyzing air samples in real time from various locations, it's possible to detect odors such as the smell of melting polystyrene foam or the burnt smell from overheating food in a microwave. In this case, detecting the odor in the galley allows cabin crew or other crew members to resolve the issue.

[0008] Collecting air samples from various locations within an aircraft can be done by moving portable gas analyzers to different locations or by installing a network of pipelines for collecting gas samples for analysis. These types of sampling methods can be quite difficult to use and implement. For example, currently, air samples to be collected and examined must be within 3 feet of portable testing equipment such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GS-MS) units.

[0009] Therefore, it is desirable to provide methods and apparatus that take into account at least some of the above-mentioned matters, as well as other potential matters. For example, it is desirable to provide methods and apparatus that overcome the technical problems in collecting air samples from various locations inside an aircraft without having to move close to the air samples. [Overview of the project]

[0010] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an air monitoring system comprising an air communication unit, a first sealing mechanism connected to an inlet, and a second sealing mechanism connected to a sampling port. The air communication unit includes a chamber within a main body, the chamber being in fluid communication with an inlet, a sampling port, and a pump port. When a pipe is connected to the inlet, the first sealing mechanism forms a first airtight seal on the inlet. When a probe for a gas analysis system is inserted into the sampling port, the second sealing mechanism forms a second airtight seal on the sampling port. Bypass air enters the inlet, moves through the chamber, and is discharged from the pump port, and as the bypass air is drawn out of the pump port through the chamber, the pressure of the bypass air is not raised above a pressure level for the gas analysis system to analyze an air sample from the bypass air. The probe takes the air sample from the bypass air as it moves through the chamber.

[0011] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides an air monitoring system comprising a computer system and a controller within the computer system. The controller moves air as bypass air from a collection port for a cavity to a tube connected to the collection port, introduces the bypass air to an input port of an air junction connected to the tube, and discharges it through the chamber of the air junction and out of the pump port of the air junction, while controlling the pump system so that the pressure of the bypass air does not exceed a pressure level for a gas analysis system to analyze an air sample collected from the bypass air. The collection port is located at a given position in a cavity on a platform, and an airtight seal exists between the tube and the input port. The controller further controls the gas analysis system, connected by a probe to a sampling port of the air junction, to measure a set of components in the air sample by taking an air sample from the bypass air passing through the air junction and analyzing the air sample.

[0012] A further embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for monitoring air. Air is moved as bypass air from a collection port connected to a pipe. The bypass air is moved from the pipe, through an inlet of an air junction, through a chamber of the air junction, and discharged from a pump port of the air junction, so that as the bypass air moves through the chamber of the air junction, the pressure of the bypass air does not exceed a pressure level for a gas analysis system to analyze an air sample collected from the bypass air. A first airtight seal is provided between the pipe and the inlet, and a second airtight seal is provided between the probe of the gas analysis system and the sampling port of the air junction. As the bypass air moves through the chamber, an air sample is taken from the bypass air using the probe inserted into the air junction through the sampling port. The air sample is analyzed by the gas analysis system to measure a set of components in the air sample.

[0013] The features and functions can be achieved individually in various embodiments of this disclosure, and may also be combined with other embodiments, and further details therein will become apparent by referring to the following description and drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] Novel features that are considered to be specific to the exemplary embodiments are described in the appended claims. The exemplary embodiments, preferred uses, and their purposes and features will be best understood by referring to the detailed description of the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, which follows below, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0015] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of an air collection environment according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a diagram of an aircraft equipped with an air monitoring system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows the components of an analytical apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4] Cross-sectional view of the air connection part according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 5] Cross-sectional view of the air connection part according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 7] Cross-sectional view of a part of the aircraft fuselage according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 8] View of the collection port according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 9] Flowchart of the air monitoring process according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 10] Flowchart of the process of moving air according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 11] Flowchart of the process of detecting gases in an air sample according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 12] Flowchart of the process of analyzing an air flow according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 13] Flowchart of the process of determining the quality of air according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 14] Flowchart of the process of determining the quality of air according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 15] Block diagram of a data processing system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 16] Diagram of the method of manufacturing and operating an aircraft according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 17] Block diagram of an aircraft that can implement an exemplary embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more different matters are recognized and considered. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, it is recognized and considered that an air sample can be analyzed using a gas chromatography mass spectrometer (GC-MS). In an exemplary embodiment, it is recognized and considered that when performing an airflow analysis of an aircraft, a portable gas chromatography mass spectrometer may be moved to various locations within the aircraft to collect an air sample.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, it is currently recognized and considered that a portable gas chromatography mass spectrometer must be within 3 feet of the location where the air sample is collected. In an exemplary embodiment, it is currently recognized and considered that due to this type of distance limitation, it may not be possible to place a portable gas chromatography mass spectrometer inside or sufficiently close to the cavity collecting the air sample for airflow analysis. In an exemplary embodiment, it is recognized and considered that access problems may exist for collecting air samples from cavities in various locations. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, it is recognized and considered that cavities such as the area between the insulation blanket and the outer skin of the aircraft fuselage may be inaccessible or very difficult to access. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, it is recognized and considered that a gas chromatography mass spectrometer may not be able to collect and analyze air pressurized at a pressure level higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0018] Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, it is recognized and considered that with currently used gas chromatography mass spectrometers, it may be very difficult to collect an air sample for analysis.

[0019] Accordingly, exemplary embodiments provide methods, apparatus, and systems for collecting air samples without requiring the collection and testing apparatus to be located near the air sample, and in embodiments, the function of collecting and analyzing unpressurized air is realized. In addition, exemplary embodiments reduce the need for long piping for sample collection. Furthermore, exemplary embodiments enable the use of a real-time air monitoring system. In one exemplary embodiment, the air monitoring system includes an air interface. The air interface has a body, a first sealing mechanism, and a second sealing mechanism. In this embodiment, the body has a chamber with a first input port, a sampling port, and a pump port.

[0020] In this exemplary embodiment, the chamber of the main body is in fluid communication with an input port, a sampling port, and a pump port. A first sealing mechanism is connected to the input port. The first sealing mechanism forms a first airtight seal at the input port when a pipe is connected to it. A second sealing mechanism is connected to the sampling port. The second sealing mechanism forms a second airtight seal at the sampling port when a probe of a gas analysis system is inserted into it.

[0021] The diverted air enters the inlet, passes through the chamber, and is discharged from the pump port. However, as this diverted air is drawn out of the chamber, its pressure is not raised above the pressure level required for a gas analysis system to analyze an air sample from it. A probe can collect an air sample from the diverted air as it moves through the chamber. This air sample can be analyzed to identify its components. This analysis can be used for various purposes, such as design modifications or real-time monitoring of air quality.

[0022] Next, referring to the drawings, and in particular to Figure 1, a block diagram of an air collection environment according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In this exemplary embodiment, the air collection environment 100 is an environment in which air 102 can be collected for analysis.

[0023] As shown in the figure, the air monitoring system 104 can collect air 102 from platform 106. In this exemplary embodiment, platform 106 can take on several different forms. For example, platform 106 may include one or more of the following: a mobile platform, a stationary platform, a land-based structure, a water-based structure, a space-based structure, an aircraft, a civilian aircraft, a rotary-wing aircraft, a tiltrotor aircraft, a tilt-wing aircraft, a vertical take-off and landing aircraft, a surface ship, a cruise ship, a tank, a personnel carrier, a train, a spacecraft, a space station, a satellite, a submarine, a car, a power plant, a dam, a house, a manufacturing facility, and a building.

[0024] In this exemplary embodiment, the air monitoring system 104 can collect air 102 from a pair of cavities 108 within the platform 106. Where the term “a pair” is used herein in relation to an item, it means one or more items. For example, “a pair of cavities 108” is one or more cavities 108. In this exemplary embodiment, if the platform 106 is in the form of an aircraft 110, the pair of cavities 108 may include at least one of the following: the area between the outer skin and the insulation blanket layer of the aircraft 110, a passenger cabin, a galley, a cargo compartment, a cockpit, or any other suitable space within the aircraft 110.

[0025] In this specification, when the phrase "at least one of..." is used with respect to a list of items, it means that one or more of the listed items may be used in various combinations, and that only one of each item on the list may be required. In other words, "at least one of..." means that any number of items from the list may be used in any combination, and not all of the listed items are necessarily required. An item may be a specific object, thing, or category.

[0026] For example, though not limited to, “at least one of item A, item B, or item C” includes the cases of item A, item A and item B, or item B. This example also includes the cases of item A, item B, and item C, or item B and item C. Of course, any combination of these items is possible. In some exemplary embodiments, “at least one of ~” could be, for example, two items A, one item B, and ten items C; four items B and seven items C; or any other suitable combination.

[0027] As shown in the figure, the air monitoring system 104 may include several different components. For example, the air monitoring system 104 may include a pipeline network 112, a set of collection ports 114, an air communication section 116, a pump system 118, a gas analysis system 120, a computer system 122, and a controller 124.

[0028] In this way, various components within the air monitoring system 104 can move air 102 as bypass air 128 from cavity 126 of a pair of cavities 108 to the gas analysis system 120, which can collect an air sample 130 for analysis from the bypass air 128. This allows the gas analysis system 120 to remotely analyze the air 102 in cavity 126. This type of configuration reduces the problem of moving portable gas analyzers to various locations to monitor the air quality within the platform 106 in real time. Furthermore, this type of configuration also reduces the problem of accessing various locations within the pair of cavities 108 on the platform 106.

[0029] In this exemplary embodiment, air 102 is moved from the cavity 126 to the gas analysis system 120 as bypass air 128 via a pair of collection ports 114, a pipeline network 112, and an air contact 116. For example, collection port 132 for the cavity 126 of the pair of collection ports 114 is in communication with the cavity 126. In this exemplary embodiment, collection port 132 can communicate with the cavity 126 by being located within the cavity 126, located within an opening to the cavity 126, or located in another suitable location that allows the movement of air 102 as bypass air 128 from the cavity 126 to collection port 132.

[0030] In this exemplary embodiment, a pair of collection ports 114, including collection port 132, are connected to the pipeline network 112 such that the pair of collection ports 114 are in fluid communication with the pipeline network 112. Furthermore, an air liaison 116 is connected to and in fluid communication with the pipeline network 112. In this exemplary embodiment, the air liaison 116 is connected to a pipe 136 that is connected to the pipeline network 112. In some exemplary embodiments, the pipe 136 can be considered as part of the pipeline network 112.

[0031] In this exemplary embodiment, the pipeline network 112 includes a network pipe 138 and a valve system 140. The network pipe 138 is connected to a pair of collection ports 114 and the valve system 140. As shown in the figure, pipe 136 is also connected to the valve system 140. The valve system 140 performs an operation to select a collection port 132 from the pair of collection ports 114 to communicate with pipe 136, thereby causing air 102 to move as bypass air 128 from the cavity 126 where the collection port 132 is located, through network pipe 142 of the network pipe 138, into pipe 136 connected to the valve system 140 in the pipeline network 112. The bypass air 128 then moves through the air connection section 116.

[0032] In this exemplary embodiment, the network tube 138 and other tubes used in the air monitoring system 104 can be selected from at least one of rigid tubes, flexible tubes, or other suitable types of tubes. These tubes can be made of materials that suppress the ingress of contaminants into the bypass air 128 traveling through the tubes and the absorption of components.

[0033] In exemplary embodiments, "communication" or "fluid communication" between different components means that at least one of air, other gases, or fluids is movable between these different components.

[0034] As shown in the figure, the gas analysis system 120 can be connected to the air junction 116. The gas analysis system 120 can collect an air sample 130 from the bypass air 128 flowing through the pipe 136 and the air junction 116.

[0035] In this exemplary embodiment, the air contact section 116 includes a chamber 144 within the main body 146. The chamber 144 is in fluid communication with an input port 148, a sampling port 150, and a pump port 152.

[0036] As shown in the figure, the air junction 116 also includes a first sealing mechanism 154 connected to the input port 148. The first sealing mechanism 154 can form a first airtight seal 156 on the input port 148 when the pipe 136 is connected to the input port 148. A second sealing mechanism 158 of the air junction 116 is connected to the sampling port 150. The second sealing mechanism 158 can form a second airtight seal 159 on the sampling port 150 when the probe 160 of the gas analysis system 120 is connected to the sampling port 150. The probe 160 can be connected by inserting the probe 160 into the chamber 144 inside the main body 146 of the air junction 116 via the sampling port 150.

[0037] In exemplary embodiments, these sealing mechanisms can be constructed from several different types of materials. For example, a sealing mechanism can be manufactured using at least one of synthetic rubber, thermosetting polymer, thermoplastic polymer, butadiene rubber (BR), butyl rubber (IIR), chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), fluoroelastomer (FKM), nitrile rubber, silicone rubber, polyurethane, ether ester elastomer, copolyester, other suitable materials, or combinations thereof.

[0038] The material can be selected so as not to introduce contaminants into the bypass air 128 flowing through the air junction 116. In addition, the material can be selected so as not to absorb or retain components 168 present in the bypass air 128 when the air sample 130 is collected.

[0039] In this exemplary embodiment, the air junction 116 includes a set of materials to prevent contamination of the air sample 130 with contaminants and absorption of components from the air sample 130. For example, the air junction 116 may include a set of materials selected from the group consisting of metals, plastics, ceramics, and combinations thereof. The metals can be selected from one or more of aluminum, titanium, nickel, stainless steel, and alloys thereof.

[0040] When the bypass air 128 enters the input port 148, passes through the chamber 144, and exits the pump port 152, the bypass air 128 can be moved by the pump system 118, and as the pump system 118 draws the bypass air 128 through the chamber 144 and out of the pump port 152, the pressure 162 of the bypass air 128 is not raised above the pressure level 164 required for the gas analysis system 120 to collect and analyze the air sample 130 from the bypass air 128. In this example, the probe 160 collects the air sample 130 from the bypass air 128 as it passes through the chamber 144. The pressure 162 of the bypass air 128 can be atmospheric pressure. In this exemplary embodiment, the pressure 162 of the bypass air 128 is the pressure at which the air sample 130 is collected by the gas analysis system 120.

[0041] In this exemplary embodiment, the operation of the pump system 118 and the gas analysis system 120 can be controlled by a controller 124 in the computer system 122. Furthermore, the controller 124 can also control the operation of the valve system 140 in the pipeline network 112.

[0042] The controller 124 can be implemented using software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. When using software, the operations performed by the controller 124 can be implemented in program code configured to run on hardware such as a processor unit. When using firmware, the operations performed by the controller 124 can be implemented in program code and data, stored in persistent memory, and executed by a processor unit. When using hardware, the hardware may include circuitry that functions to perform the operations of the controller 124.

[0043] In exemplary embodiments, the hardware can take the form of at least one of a circuit system, an integrated circuit, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or other suitable type of hardware configured to perform multiple operations. If a programmable logic device is used, the device can be configured to perform multiple operations. The device can be reconfigured later or permanently configured to perform these multiple operations. Examples of programmable logic devices include programmable logic arrays, programmable array logic, field-programmable logic arrays, field-programmable gate arrays, and other suitable hardware devices. In addition, the process can be implemented using organic components incorporating inorganic components, and the entire system can be composed of organic components excluding humans. For example, the process can be implemented as a circuit of organic semiconductors.

[0044] The computer system 122 is a physical hardware system and includes one or more data processing systems. If there are two or more data processing systems in the computer system 122, these data processing systems communicate with each other using a communication medium. The communication medium is, for example, a network. The data processing systems can be selected from at least one of a computer, a server computer, a tablet, or other suitable data processing system.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 124 moves air 102 as bypass air 128 from a collection port 132 for the cavity 126 to a pipe 136 connected to the collection port 132, introduces the bypass air 128 into an input port 148 of an air liaison 116 connected to the pipe 136, and discharges it through the chamber 144 of the air liaison 116 to a pump port 152 of the air liaison 116, while controlling the pump system 118 so that the pressure 162 of the bypass air 128 does not exceed the pressure level 164 required for the gas analysis system 120 to analyze the air sample 130 collected from the bypass air 128. The collection port 132 can be located at a given position within the cavity 126 on the platform 106. An airtight seal, such as a first airtight seal 156, is present between the pipe 136 and the input port 148.

[0046] In addition, the controller 124 also controls the gas analysis system 120, which is connected to the sampling port 150 in the air junction 116 by the probe 160, to take an air sample 130 from the bypass air 128 passing through the air junction 116, analyze this air sample 130, and measure a set of components 168 in the air sample 130 taken from the bypass air 128 by the probe 160. In this exemplary embodiment, the gas analysis system 120 may include one or more gas analyzers selected from at least one of a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer, a proton transfer reaction mass spectrometer, a biosensor, an optical biosensor, an electrochemical biosensor, or a combination thereof.

[0047] Furthermore, the controller 124 can control the valve system 140 to select a collection port 132 that moves the air 102 as bypass air 128. This movement of bypass air 128 occurs when the valve system 140 connects network pipe 142 of the network pipe 138 to pipe 136, thereby creating a connection from the collection port 132 to the air contact section 116. In other words, the valve system 140 can select a different network pipe from the network pipe 138 and change its configuration so that bypass air 128 can be drawn from the air 102 in a selected cavity of a set of cavities 108.

[0048] In one exemplary embodiment, there exists one or more technical methods to overcome the problem of collecting air samples from various locations within a platform 106, such as an aircraft 110. Thus, one or more exemplary embodiments may present a solution in which the air monitoring system 104 operates so that the gas analysis system 120 can divert air 102 from one or more cavities 108 within the aircraft 110 in such a manner that the gas analysis system 120 can take an air sample 130 for analysis from the diverted air 128. In the exemplary embodiment, the air junction 116 is configured so that the diverted air 128 can pass through the air junction 116 while the pressure 162 is maintained at a pressure level 164 that allows the gas analysis system 120 to take an air sample 130 for analysis.

[0049] The structure of the air junction 116 can be based on one or more dimensions of the air junction 116. For example, these dimensions can be selected so that the pressure level 164 of the bypass air 128 pressure 162 does not exceed the pressure used by the gas analysis system 120 to collect and analyze the air sample 130.

[0050] The gas analysis system 120 is susceptible to pressure 162 during its operation to collect and analyze the air sample 130. If the pressure 162 of the bypass air 128 is higher than the pressure level 164 used by the gas analysis system 120, the gas analysis system 120 may not be able to collect the air sample 130 in a manner that allows for proper analysis of the air sample 130 and achieves the desired level of analytical accuracy.

[0051] Furthermore, the air monitoring system 104 in the exemplary embodiment can overcome the problems associated with real-time monitoring of air quality inside the aircraft 110 using portable gas analyzers, such as portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) equipment. By using the air liaison unit 116 together with a pipeline network 112 connected to collection ports 114 at various locations within the aircraft 110, the air 102 can be continuously monitored and its quality and changes examined in real time without being limited by the distance and access of portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry equipment.

[0052] The illustration of the air collection environment 100 in Figure 1 does not imply any physical or structural limitations on the manner in which the exemplary embodiment is carried out. Other components may be used in addition to or instead of those shown. Some components may be unnecessary. Also, the blocks shown in the figure represent several functional components. When carrying out the exemplary embodiment, one or more of these blocks may be combined or divided, or some may be combined and divided into several different blocks.

[0053] For example, the components of the air junction 116, the gas analysis system 120, and the pump system 118 can be combined to form an analyzer 170. In some exemplary embodiments, multiple analyzers may be provided for the platform 106. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the computer system 122 can be considered as part of the analyzer 170 and communicate with multiple analyzers to control their operation. As another example, the illustrated example in the air collection environment 100 shows a single air junction. In other exemplary embodiments, one or more air junctions may be provided in addition to or instead of the air junction 116. These air junctions can connect one or more analyzers in the gas analysis system 120 to the pipeline network 112. In yet another exemplary embodiment, one or more pipeline networks may be provided in addition to the pipeline network 112 in the platform 106. For example, if the platform 106 is an aircraft 110, one pipeline network may communicate with a cavity 108 between the insulation layer and the outer skin of the aircraft 110. Another pipeline network may be connected to the cavity 126 that serves as the passenger cabin within the aircraft 110. In another example, the pipeline network 112 may be connected to another cavity in the cavity 108, such as the cargo hold or flight deck of the aircraft 110.

[0054] Next, referring to Figure 2, the figure shows an aircraft having an air surveillance system according to an exemplary embodiment. In this exemplary embodiment, the civilian passenger aircraft 200 is an example of one embodiment of the aircraft 110 shown in block form in Figure 1. In this exemplary embodiment, the civilian passenger aircraft 200 is a civilian passenger aircraft having fixed wings.

[0055] As shown in the figure, the civilian passenger aircraft 200 has wings 202 and 204 attached to the fuselage 206. The civilian passenger aircraft 200 includes an engine 208 attached to wing 202 and an engine 210 attached to wing 204.

[0056] The aircraft 206 has a tail section 212. A horizontal stabilizer 214, a horizontal stabilizer 216, and a vertical stabilizer 218 are attached to the tail section 212 of the aircraft 206.

[0057] In this exemplary embodiment, the internal cavity of the civilian passenger aircraft 200 is, for example, visible within the fuselage 206 in this exposed view. As illustrated in this exposed view, the internal cavity visible within the civilian passenger aircraft 200 includes a portion of the cabin 220 and the space between the fuselage's insulation layer 224 and the outer skin 226. In this exemplary embodiment, the insulation layer 224 includes an insulation blanket.

[0058] Space 222 and cabin 220 are examples of cavities 108 shown in block form in Figure 1. Other cavities that may exist within a civilian passenger aircraft 200 but are not shown in this exposed figure include the flight deck, cargo hold, galley, toilet, or other suitable space.

[0059] In this exemplary embodiment, the air monitoring system 228 is installed in a commercial passenger aircraft 200 to detect at least one of the air quality or airflow within the commercial passenger aircraft 200. This detection can be performed in real time or later using an information log obtained from sampled air within the commercial passenger aircraft 200.

[0060] In this exemplary embodiment, the air monitoring system 228 includes several different components. As shown in the figure, the air monitoring system 228 includes a pipeline network 230, a pipeline network 232, an analyzer 234, and an analyzer 236.

[0061] As shown in this example, the piping network 230 includes tubing such as network tubing 238, network tubing 240, and network tubing 242, which are connected to the valve system 244. As shown in the figure, network tubing 238 is connected to collection port 246, which allows air to be diverted from the cabin 220 in space 222. Network tubing 240 is connected to collection port 248, which allows air to be diverted from the cabin 220 in space 222. Network tubing 242 is connected to collection port 250, which allows air to be diverted from the cabin 220 in space 222. In this example, the valve system 244 is connected to the air junction in the analyzer 234 by tubing 252.

[0062] In this exemplary embodiment, the piping network 232 includes tubing such as network tubing 254, network tubing 256, and network tubing 258, which are connected to the valve system 260. As shown in the figure, network tubing 254 is connected to collection port 262, which allows air to be diverted from cabin 220 in space 222. Network tubing 256 is connected to collection port 264, which allows air to be diverted from cabin 220 in space 222. Network tubing 258 is connected to collection port 266, which allows air to be diverted from cabin 220 in space 222. In this example, the valve system 260 is connected by tubing 268 to the air contact in the analyzer 236.

[0063] The illustration of the civilian passenger aircraft 200 is not intended to limit the forms in which the exemplary embodiment may be implemented in an aircraft. For example, other civilian passenger aircraft may include an upper and lower passenger cabin separated by a deck. Although not shown, the civilian passenger aircraft 200 may also include a cavity in the form of a cargo compartment, and the air quality in the cargo compartment may be monitored. In other exemplary embodiments, the air monitoring system 228 may be used in other types of aircraft other than the civilian passenger aircraft 200. Other types of aircraft in which the exemplary embodiment may be implemented include, for example, rotary-wing aircraft, tiltrotor aircraft, tilt-wing aircraft, vertical take-off and landing aircraft, military aircraft, cargo aircraft, cargo jets, or other appropriate types of aircraft.

[0064] Next, referring to Figure 3, the figure shows components of an analytical apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment. The components shown in Figure 3 are examples of components that may be included in the analytical apparatus 170 in Figure 1, the analytical apparatus 234 in Figure 2, and the analytical apparatus 236 in Figure 2. As shown, these components include an air connection unit 300, a pump 302, and a gas analyzer 304.

[0065] As shown in the figure, the air communication section 300 has an input port 306, a pump port 308, and a sampling port 310.

[0066] In this exemplary embodiment, pipe 312 is connected to the input port 306 of the air junction 300. Pipe 312 is also connected to valve systems such as valve system 140 in Figure 1, valve system 244 in Figure 2, and valve system 260 in Figure 2.

[0067] As shown in the figure, the pipe 312 connects the pump 302 to the input port 306 of the air junction 300. In this exemplary embodiment, the probe 314 of the gas analyzer 304 is connected to the sampling port 310 of the air junction 300.

[0068] In this exemplary embodiment, the pump 302 can operate to deliver the diverted air through the tube 312 to the inlet 306 and discharge it from the pump port 308. This movement of diverted air allows the gas analyzer 304 to collect an air sample using the probe 314 inserted into the sampling port 310. In this exemplary embodiment, the pump 302 operates so that the pressure of the diverted air is maintained at a level that allows the gas analyzer 304 to collect an air sample for analysis.

[0069] Next, referring to Figure 4, the figure shows a cross-sectional view of an air connection according to an exemplary embodiment. In exemplary embodiments, the same reference numeral may be used in two or more drawings. When the same reference numeral is used redundantly in different drawings in this way, it indicates that they are the same element. In this figure, the cross-sectional view of the air connection 300 is the cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3.

[0070] In this cross-sectional view, the main body 406 of the air junction 300 is T-shaped. In this figure, the pipe 312 is shown as being connected to the input port 306. In this exemplary embodiment, this connection is made by inserting the pipe 312 into the input port 306.

[0071] Furthermore, an airtight seal is formed between the pipe 312 and the inlet 306. This seal can be formed using a sealing material 400. The sealing material 400 is a mechanical seal that assists in the joining of the pipe 312 to the inlet 306 in such a manner that it prevents leakage of bypass air 402 flowing from the inlet 306 through the pipe 312 into the chamber 404 in the main body 406 of the air communication unit 300. As shown in the figure, the sealing material 400 is an O-ring seal. In this exemplary embodiment, an airtight seal can also be formed between the pipe 412 and the pump port 308 using a sealing material 408, and this sealing material can also be an O-ring seal.

[0072] As shown in the figure, the probe 314 is inserted through the sampling port 310. An airtight seal can also be formed between the probe 314 and the sampling port 310 using a sealing material 410. As shown in the figure, the sealing material 410 can also take the form of an O-ring seal. In the exemplary embodiment, the airtight seals provided at various ports can suppress or prevent contaminants from mixing into the bypass air 402 as the bypass air 402 flows from the pipe 312 into the input port 306, passes through the chamber 404 and the main body 406, and exits through the pipe 312 connected to the pump port 308.

[0073] In this exemplary embodiment, the probe 314 is inserted into the sampling port 310 so as to penetrate the chamber 404 and the input port 306. In this exemplary embodiment, the end 416 of the probe 314 extends into the tube 312 through the input port 306. This position of the probe 314 with the end 416 inside the tube 312 reduces concerns that contaminants may be introduced into the bypass air 402, or that components may be removed from the bypass air 402 by the various materials used in the construction of the body 406, sealant 400, sealant 408, and sealant 410. This position allows the probe 314 to collect an air sample 414 from the bypass air 402 before the bypass air 402 moves through the body 406 of the air connection 300.

[0074] Referring to Figure 5, a cross-sectional view of an air junction according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In this figure, the cross-sectional view of the air junction 300 is the cross-sectional view along line 4-4 in Figure 3.

[0075] As shown in this figure, the probe 314 does not extend into the interior of the tube 312. As shown in the figure, the end 416 of the probe 314 remains within the body 406 of the air contact section 300. As shown in this example, the probe 314 extends into the input port 306 through the sampling port 310 and the chamber 404.

[0076] Referring to Figure 6, a cross-sectional view according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The cross-sectional view of the air connection section 300 is shown as the cross-sectional view along line 6-6 in Figure 4. This figure shows the diameters of the pipe 312, the sealing material 400, the input port 306, and the probe 314. In this exemplary embodiment, the pipe 312 has a first diameter of 600 and the probe 314 has a second diameter of 602.

[0077] As shown in the figure, the first diameter 600 of the pipe 312 is larger than the second diameter 602 of the probe 314. In this example, the ratio of the first diameter 600 to the second diameter 602 is approximately 3.5:1. This ratio is an example of dimensions that may be used in the air connection section 300.

[0078] In this exemplary embodiment, the ratio can be selected to achieve a desired flow rate of the bypass air 402 without increasing the pressure of the bypass air 402 above a level at which the gas analyzer can perform the operation of taking an air sample 414 for analysis. The ratio can also be selected based on the operation of the pump that draws in the bypass air 402. For example, to achieve a desired pressure of the bypass air 402, the ratio can be selected considering the velocity of the air flow when the pump draws in the air.

[0079] The illustration of the air liaison section 300 in Figures 3 to 6 is an example of one possible embodiment of the air liaison section 116 shown in block form in Figure 1. In other exemplary embodiments, the air liaison section may have a shape other than T-shape. For example, the air liaison section may have a Y-shape or other suitable shape. Furthermore, in other exemplary embodiments, when the pipe 312 is connected to the input port 306 by insertion into the input port 306, the end 416 of the probe 314 may extend into the interior of the pipe 312 while remaining inside the input port 306.

[0080] Next, referring to Figure 7, the figure shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of an aircraft fuselage according to an exemplary embodiment. In this illustrated example, the fuselage 700 is an example of an aircraft structure or body, such as the aircraft 110 shown as a block in Figure 1 or the civilian passenger aircraft 200 in Figure 2.

[0081] In this exemplary embodiment, cavities exist within the aircraft body 700. As shown in the figure, cavities 702, 704, and 706 are visible in a partial cross-sectional view of the aircraft body 700.

[0082] Cavity 702 is the space between the outer skin 708 of the fuselage 700 and the insulation layer 710. The insulation layer 710 may consist of an insulation blanket. Cavity 702 is a cavity in which at least one of the following can occur during the operation of the aircraft: accumulation of moisture, condensation, or freezing.

[0083] In this example, cavity 706 is an internal cavity within the aircraft body 700. For example, cavity 706 could be the aircraft's passenger cabin or flight deck.

[0084] As shown in the figure, the cavity 704 is a location where a conduit network 712 can be laid out within the machine body 700. In this exemplary embodiment, the conduit network 712 includes pipes 714, 716, 718, and 719. Depending on the individual embodiment, these pipes can be connected indirectly to the gas analyzer via a valve system or directly to the gas analyzer.

[0085] In this exemplary embodiment, a collection port 720 is located in the cavity 704. In this exemplary embodiment, the collection port 720 is located in the outer plate 708. In other embodiments, the collection port 720 may be located in the insulation layer 710 or elsewhere in the cavity 702 between the outer plate 708 and the insulation layer 710. As shown in the figure, the collection port 720 is connected to pipes 714 and 716.

[0086] The collection port 720 is a device that provides an opening for collecting air 726 in the cavity 702, allowing the air 726 to move as bypass air through at least one of the tubes 714 or 716. In one exemplary embodiment, gas 728 can be introduced into the cavity 702 through tube 716, and air 726 can be collected through tube 714. Depending on the embodiment, both tubes can either introduce gas 728 into the cavity 702 or collect air 726 from the cavity 702. In this exemplary embodiment, the gas can take several different forms. For example, the gas can be selected to be detectable by a gas analyzer. For example, the gas can be xenon or other noble or inert gases. This particular gas can be selected to be odorless, colorless, and have a desired level of chemical reactivity. Examples of other gases that can be selected include helium, neon, and argon.

[0087] In this example, the gas 728 introduced at collection port 720 can move within the cavity 702. The gas 728 can be detected in the air 726 at collection port 721 at another location within the cavity 702. In this example, collection port 721 is located on the outer plate 708 inside the cavity 702.

[0088] Air 726 can be transported as bypass air through pipe 719. Furthermore, this bypass air may also contain gas 728. By determining the time it takes for gas 728 to travel from a first position at collection port 720 to a second position at collection port 721, the amount of air from within the cavity 702 between these two positions can be calculated. In this calculation, the time from the introduction of gas 728 to its detection can be adjusted to take into account the travel time from pipe 719 and other parts of the pipeline network 712 to the gas analyzer.

[0089] In this example, the collection port 722 is located in the ceiling structure 724. As shown in the figure, the ceiling structure 724 is a structural element that separates the uppermost part of the aircraft from the passenger cabin, flight deck, or other interior areas. The collection port 722 is connected to a pipe 718 in the pipeline network 712. In this example, the collection port 722 can provide an opening for collecting air 730 from the cavity 706. The air 730 collected from the cavity 706 can be moved through the pipe 718 as bypass air for analysis by a gas analyzer.

[0090] This analysis can be used to determine the quality of the air inside cavity 706. This type of analysis can be performed in real time while the aircraft is in operation. By connecting multiple collection ports to cavity 706, the air quality in various parts of cavity 706 can be determined. If undesirable air quality, such as odor, is identified, the source of the odor can be identified, and odor generation can be suppressed or stopped.

[0091] Referring to Figure 8, an exemplary embodiment of a collection port is illustrated. Collection port 800 is an example of one embodiment of collection port 132 and other collection ports among the collection ports 114 in Figure 1. Collection port 800 may also be one or more exemplary embodiments of collection ports 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, and 266 in Figure 2. Furthermore, collection ports 720, 721, and 722 in Figure 7 can also be implemented using collection port 800.

[0092] The collection port 800 can be constructed from multiple different materials. For example, one or more materials can be selected based on factors such as weight and the various temperatures to which the collection port 800 may be exposed. Furthermore, materials can be selected that suppress at least one of the following: contamination by contaminants or absorption of components from the air drawn out from the collection port 800.

[0093] In this exemplary embodiment, the collection port 800 has openings 802 and 804 that can draw air from the cavity. Opening 802 is connected to connector 806, and opening 804 is connected to connector 808.

[0094] These two connectors can be connected to a pipe to draw air into the pipe and move it as bypass air. In one exemplary embodiment, the opening 802 and connector 806 can be connected to a pipe that introduces gas into the cavity, and the opening 804 and connector 808 can be connected to a pipe that draws air out of the cavity. In this exemplary embodiment, the collection port 800 has a single opening and a connector when used to implement the collection ports 721 and 722 of Figure 7.

[0095] The examples of collection ports and conduit networks shown in Figures 7 and 8 are presented to illustrate one exemplary embodiment of how various components may be implemented. These examples are not intended to limit the embodiments in which other exemplary embodiments may be implemented. For example, a different number of tubes and collection ports may be used in the shown parts of the aircraft. As another example, collection ports may have shapes other than the cylindrical shape shown in Figures 7 and 8. For example, collection ports may have hemispherical, cubic, rectangular, triangular prism, square pyramidal, or other suitable shapes including openings that draw air from a cavity.

[0096] Next, referring to Figure 9, which shows a flowchart of an air monitoring process according to an exemplary embodiment. The process shown in Figure 9 can be implemented in hardware, software, or both. When implemented in software, the process can take the form of program code executed by one or more processor units located in one or more hardware devices within one or more computer systems. For example, the process can be implemented in the controller 124 in the computer system 122 of Figure 1. By implementing these various steps in the controller 124, the operation of various components of the air monitoring system 104 of Figure 1 can be controlled to monitor the air within the platform.

[0097] The process begins by moving air as bypass air from a collection port connected to a tube (step 900). In this process, the bypass air is moved from the tube, through the inlet of the air junction, through the chamber of the air junction, and discharged from the pump port of the air junction, and as the bypass air moves through the chamber of the air junction, the pressure of the bypass air is not raised above the pressure level required for the gas analysis system to analyze the air sample collected from the bypass air, and a first airtight seal exists between the tube and the inlet, and a second airtight seal exists between the probe of the gas analysis system and the sampling port of the air junction (step 902).

[0098] In this process, as the bypass air moves through the chamber, an air sample is taken from the bypass air using a probe inserted into the air junction through the sampling port (step 904). In this process, the air sample is analyzed by a gas analysis system to measure a set of components in the air sample (step 906). The process then terminates.

[0099] Next, referring to Figure 10, which shows a flowchart of the process of moving air according to an exemplary embodiment. The steps in this flowchart are examples of steps that can be performed in other steps in the flowchart of Figure 9. In this example, the collection port is located at a given position within a cavity in the platform, and a pipe is connected to the collection port by the platform's pipeline network.

[0100] In this process, bypass air is moved from a collection port located at a given position within a cavity on the platform to a pipe via a network of pipelines within the platform (step 1000). The process then terminates.

[0101] This step may be performed after the air has been moved away from the collection port as bypass air. In this process, the air can be moved through the pipeline network into the pipes, as described in step 1000. This step is optional and is not necessary if the pipes are directly connected to the collection port.

[0102] Next, referring to Figure 11, the figure shows a flowchart of the process for detecting gas in an air sample according to an exemplary embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 11 is an example of an embodiment of step 906 in Figure 9. In this example, on the platform, gas is injected into a pair of cavities at a first position in the pair of cavities, and a collection port is located at a second position in the pair of cavities.

[0103] The process begins by detecting a gas in a bypass air sample received from a second position in a given cavity of a pair of cavities via a pipe connected to a pipeline network communicating with a collection port at the second position in the cavity of the pair of cavities (step 1100). The process then ends. In this example, the gas is a component of a set of components.

[0104] Figure 12 shows a flowchart of the process for analyzing airflow according to an exemplary embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 12 is an example of a process that may be carried out in conjunction with the other steps in Figures 9 and 11, using a gas detected as one component of a set of components in an air sample.

[0105] The process begins by determining the velocity of the airflow (step 1200) based on the distance from the first position to the second position, the first time when gas is injected into a pair of cavities at the first position, and the second time when the gas is detected in an air sample from the bypass air at the second position. The process then ends.

[0106] Next, referring to Figure 13, the figure shows a flowchart of the process for determining air quality according to an exemplary embodiment. The flowchart in Figure 13 is an example of a process that may be carried out in conjunction with the other steps in Figure 9.

[0107] The process begins by determining the air quality at the collection port location within the cavity on the platform (step 1300) using the analysis results of an air sample prepared by a gas analysis system that analyzes the air sample. The process then ends.

[0108] The process shown in Figure 13 can be performed in real time by analyzing the air sample as quickly as possible while the platform is operating. In other exemplary embodiments, this process can also be performed later, based on the analysis results of the air sample recorded in a log or stored in a database.

[0109] The process shown in Figure 13 can be used to determine the air quality at various locations within the platform. This analysis can be used to determine whether further analysis is needed at a particular location, or whether changes are needed to improve or alter the air quality at that location. This information may also be used to create an air quality map of the platform.

[0110] Referring to Figure 14, the figure shows a flowchart of a process for determining air quality according to an exemplary embodiment. The process shown in Figure 14 is an example of one embodiment of step 1300 in Figure 13.

[0111] In this process, the air quality at a given location within the cavity is determined using the analysis results of an air sample prepared by a gas analysis system that analyzes air samples while the platform is in operation (step 1400). The process then terminates. In this way, the air quality of a platform such as an aircraft can be monitored during the aircraft's flight.

[0112] The flowcharts and block diagrams in various illustrated embodiments illustrate the structure, function, and process of several possible embodiments of the apparatus or method according to the exemplary embodiments. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagram may represent at least one of a module, segment, function, or part of a process or step. For example, one or more of the blocks can be implemented by program code, hardware, or a combination of program code and hardware. If implemented by hardware, the hardware may be, for example, an integrated circuit manufactured or configured to perform one or more steps shown in the flowchart or block diagram. If implemented by a combination of program code and hardware, it may be implemented in the form of firmware. Each block in the flowchart or block diagram can be executed using a special-purpose hardware system that performs various steps, or using a combination of special-purpose hardware and program code executed by said special-purpose hardware.

[0113] In some alternative embodiments of the exemplary embodiments, one or more functions shown in the blocks may be executed in an order different from that shown in the figure. For example, depending on the functions involved, two blocks shown as consecutive blocks may be executed substantially simultaneously, or they may be executed in reverse order. In addition, other blocks may be added to the blocks shown in the flowchart or block diagram.

[0114] Next, referring to Figure 15, a block diagram of a data processing system according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The data processing system 1500 can be used to implement a computer system 122. In this exemplary embodiment, the data processing system 1500 includes a communication framework 1502, which enables communication between a processor unit 1504, a memory 1506, a persistent storage device 1508, a communication unit 1510, an input / output (I / O) unit 1512, and a display unit 1514. In this example, the communication framework 1502 takes the form of a bus system.

[0115] The processor unit 1504 functions to execute instructions for the software loaded into memory 1506. The processor unit 1504 includes one or more processors. For example, the processor unit 1504 can be selected from at least one of a multicore processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a physics processing unit (PPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor, or other suitable types of processors. Furthermore, the processor unit 1504 can be implemented using one or more heterogeneous processor systems, in which the primary processor and secondary processors reside on a single chip. In another exemplary embodiment, the processor unit 1504 may be a symmetrical multiprocessor system in which multiple processors of the same type are mounted on a single chip.

[0116] Memory 1506 and persistent storage device 1508 are examples of storage device 1516. A storage device is any hardware capable of temporarily, permanently, or both temporarily and permanently storing data, functional program code, or other suitable information, for example, but not limited to these. In these exemplary embodiments, storage device 1516 may also be referred to as computer-readable storage device. In these embodiments, memory 1506 may be, for example, random-access memory or any other suitable volatile or non-volatile storage device. Persistent storage device 1508 can take various forms depending on the individual embodiment.

[0117] For example, the persistent storage device 1508 may include one or more components or devices. For example, the persistent storage device 1508 may be a hard drive, a solid-state drive (SSD), flash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, or any combination of the above. The medium used by the persistent storage device 1508 may be removable. For example, a removable hard drive can be used as the persistent storage device 1508.

[0118] In these exemplary embodiments, the communication unit 1510 enables communication with other data processing systems or devices. In these exemplary embodiments, the communication unit 1510 is a network interface card.

[0119] The input / output unit 1512 enables data input and output with other devices that can be connected to the data processing system 1500. For example, the input / output unit 1512 can provide a connection for user input via at least one of a keyboard, mouse, or other suitable input device. For example, the input / output unit 1512 can send output to a printer. The display unit 1514 provides a mechanism for displaying information to the user.

[0120] Instructions for at least one of the operating system, applications, or programs can be stored in a storage device 1516 that communicates with the processor unit 1504 via a communication framework 1502. Processes of various embodiments can be executed by the processor unit 1504 using computer implementation instructions, which can be stored in a storage device such as memory 1506.

[0121] These instructions are referred to as program code, computer-readable program code, or computer-readable program code, which can be read and executed by the processor in the processor unit 1504. In various embodiments, the program code can be implemented on various physical or computer-readable storage media, such as memory 1506 or persistent storage device 1508.

[0122] The program code 1518 is stored in functional form on a selectively removable computer-readable medium 1520 and can be loaded or transferred to a data processing system 1500 and executed by a processor unit 1504. In these exemplary embodiments, the program code 1518 and the computer-readable medium 1520 constitute a computer program product 1522. In the exemplary embodiments, the computer-readable medium 1520 is a computer-readable storage medium 1524.

[0123] The computer-readable storage medium 1524 is not a medium for propagating or transmitting the program code 1518, but a physical or tangible storage device used to store the program code 1518. The computer-readable storage medium 1524 should not be construed in this disclosure as the transient signal itself, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through waveguides or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through optical fiber cables), or electrical signals transmitted through wires.

[0124] Alternatively, the program code 1518 may be transmitted to the data processing system 1500 using a computer-readable signal medium. The computer-readable signal medium is a signal, and may, for example, a propagated data signal containing the program code 1518. For example, the computer-readable signal medium may be at least one of an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, or any other suitable type of signal. These signals can be transmitted via wireless connections, fiber optic cables, coaxial cables, wired connections, or any other suitable type of connection.

[0125] Furthermore, in this specification, "computer-readable media 1520" may be singular or plural. For example, program code 1518 may be placed on computer-readable media 1520 in the form of a single storage device or system. In another example, program code 1518 may be placed on computer-readable media 1520 distributed across multiple data processing systems. In other words, some instructions of program code 1518 may be placed on one data processing system, and other instructions of program code 1518 may be placed on another data processing system. For example, part of program code 1518 may be placed on computer-readable media 1520 in a server computer, and another part of program code 1518 may be placed on computer-readable media 1520 located on a set of client computers.

[0126] The components illustrated for the data processing system 1500 are not intended to impose structural limitations on the manner in which different embodiments can be implemented. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more of these components may be incorporated into or form part of another component. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the memory 1506 or a part thereof may be incorporated into the processor unit 1504. Various exemplary embodiments can also be implemented in data processing systems that include additional and / or alternative components to those illustrated for the data processing system 1500. Other components shown in Figure 15 may also be modified from the illustrated embodiments. Various embodiments can be implemented using any hardware device or system capable of executing the program code 1518.

[0127] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can be described in relation to the method of manufacturing and commissioning an aircraft 1600 shown in Figure 16, and in relation to the aircraft 1700 shown in Figure 17. First, referring to Figure 16, the figure shows an exemplary method of manufacturing and commissioning an aircraft. Prior to the start of production, the method of manufacturing and commissioning an aircraft 1600 includes the specification and design 1602 of the aircraft 1700 shown in Figure 17, and the procurement of materials 1604.

[0128] During manufacturing, the production of parts and subassemblies of the aircraft 1700 shown in Figure 17 will take place in 1606, and system integration will be carried out in 1608. Subsequently, the aircraft 1700 shown in Figure 17 will undergo certification and delivery in 1610, and enter service in 1612. During the customer's service in 1612, the aircraft 1700 shown in Figure 17 will be incorporated into a schedule of periodic maintenance and upkeep in 1614, which may include improvements, reconfigurations, modifications, and other appropriate maintenance and upkeep.

[0129] Each step of the Aircraft Manufacturing and Operational Procedure 1600 can be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, an operator, or any combination thereof. In these examples, the operator is, for example, the customer. System integrators include, but are not limited to, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major system subcontractors. Third parties include, but are not limited to, any number of sellers, subcontractors, and suppliers. Operators are, for example, airlines, leasing companies, military organizations, service organizations, etc.

[0130] Referring to Figure 17, the figure shows an aircraft that can carry out an exemplary embodiment. In this example, the aircraft 1700 may include a fuselage 1702 having a plurality of systems 1704 and interior 1706, manufactured by the aircraft manufacturing and operational method 1600 of Figure 16. Examples of systems 1704 include one or more of the propulsion system 1708, electrical system 1710, hydraulic system 1712, and environmental system 1714. Any number of other systems may also be included. Although the example has been described using the aerospace industry, the exemplary embodiment may also be applied to other industries, such as the automotive industry. In this exemplary example, an air monitoring system, such as the air monitoring system 104 shown in Figure 1, can be implemented in the environmental system 1714 and the aircraft 1700.

[0131] The apparatus and methods described herein can be employed in at least one of the steps of the aircraft manufacturing and commissioning method 1600 shown in Figure 16.

[0132] In one exemplary embodiment, the parts and subassemblies manufactured in the manufacturing process 1606 of the parts and subassemblies in Figure 16 may be manufactured in the same manner as the parts or subassemblies manufactured during the aircraft 1700's service life 1612 in Figure 16. In yet another example, one or more embodiments of devices, embodiments of methods, or combinations thereof can be used in manufacturing processes such as the manufacturing of parts and subassemblies 1606 and system integration 1608 in Figure 16. One or more embodiments of devices, embodiments of methods, or combinations thereof can be used during the service life 1612, maintenance and servicing 1614, or both, of the aircraft 1700 in Figure 16. By using several different exemplary embodiments, it is possible to substantially achieve faster assembly of the aircraft 1700, reduced costs for the aircraft 1700, or both.

[0133] For example, components of an air monitoring system, such as the air monitoring system 104, can be designed during the specification and design process 1602 and manufactured during the parts and subassembly manufacturing process 1606. These components can be installed during the system integration process 1608 of the aircraft 1700. As another example, various components can be manufactured and installed during the maintenance and upkeep process 1614. Maintenance and upkeep 1614 may include improvements, reconfigurations, modifications, and other maintenance and upkeep of the aircraft 1700.

[0134] The air monitoring system can be operated while the aircraft 1700 is in operation. This air monitoring system can collect data for analysis when the design of the aircraft 1700 is updated or modified. For example, these design changes may include selecting at least one of the following: the placement of the insulation blanket, the stringer, or other components placed between the insulation layer and the outer skin of the aircraft 1700.

[0135] In another example, the air monitoring system can operate during its operational period to monitor air quality in the cabin, flight deck, galley, lavatory, cargo hold, or other areas within the aircraft. This operation can be used to monitor air quality during the flight of the aircraft.

[0136] Thus, exemplary embodiments provide methods, apparatus, systems, and computer program products for air monitoring systems. In one exemplary embodiment, a method for monitoring air is provided. Air is moved as bypass air from a collection port connected to a pipe. The bypass air is moved from the pipe, through the inlet of an air junction, through the chamber of the air junction, and out of the pump port of the air junction, and as the bypass air moves through the chamber of the air junction, the pressure of the bypass air is not raised above the pressure level required for a gas analysis system to analyze an air sample collected from the bypass air. A first airtight seal is present between the pipe and the inlet, and a second airtight seal is present between the probe of the gas analysis system and the sampling port of the air junction. As the bypass air moves through the chamber of the air junction, an air sample is taken from the bypass air using a probe inserted into the air junction through the sampling port. The gas analysis system analyzes the air sample to measure a set of components in the air sample.

[0137] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides an air monitoring system comprising a computer system and a controller within the computer system. The controller moves air as bypass air from a collection port for a cavity to a tube connected to the collection port, introduces the bypass air to an input port of an air junction connected to the tube, and discharges it through the chamber of the air junction to a pump port of the air junction, while controlling the pump system so that the pressure of the bypass air does not exceed the pressure level required for a gas analysis system to analyze an air sample collected from the bypass air. The collection port is located at a given position in a cavity on a platform, and an airtight seal exists between the tube and the input port. The controller controls a gas analysis system connected to a sampling port in the air junction by a probe to take an air sample from the bypass air passing through the air junction, analyze this air sample, and measure a set of components in the air sample.

[0138] In exemplary embodiments, the air liaison can be used to draw air from a cavity and monitor the airflow pattern within the cavity of a platform such as an aircraft. The air liaison can also be used to draw air from a cavity and monitor the air quality at various locations within the platform. In exemplary embodiments, the air liaison can be connected to a valve system that allows for selective connection of the air liaison to multiple collection points at various locations within one or more cavities.

[0139] Furthermore, the air monitoring system in the exemplary embodiment can overcome the problems associated with real-time monitoring of air quality in an aircraft using portable gas analyzers, such as portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometers (GC-MS). By using an air liaison unit along with a pipeline network connected to collection points at various locations within the aircraft, air can be continuously monitored and air quality and changes can be investigated in real time without being limited by the distance and accessibility of portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometers.

[0140] The air monitoring system in this exemplary embodiment overcomes the problems associated with real-time monitoring of air quality in an aircraft using portable gas analyzers, such as portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometers (GC-MS). By using a liaison unit along with a pipeline network connected to collection points at various locations within the aircraft, air samples can be continuously monitored and air quality and changes can be investigated in real time, without being limited by the distance and accessibility of portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometers (GC-MS).

[0141] The descriptions of various exemplary embodiments are presented for illustrative and explanatory purposes only and are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit implementation to the disclosed forms. The various exemplary embodiments describe components that perform operations or processes. In the exemplary embodiments, components may be configured to perform the operations or processes described. For example, a component has a structure or design such that, when performed by the component, it has the function of performing the operations or processes described in the exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “including,” “has,” and “contains,” and variations thereof are used herein, such terms are intended to be inclusive as the term “comprises” as an open transitional term, without excluding any additional or other elements.

[0142] Furthermore, this disclosure includes embodiments as specified below.

[0143] Note 1. The main body (146,206,406,700) includes a chamber (144,404), and the chamber (144,404) has an air contact section (116,300) that is in fluid communication with the input port (148,306), sampling port (150,310), and pump port (152,308), A first sealing mechanism (154) connected to the input port (148, 306), the first sealing mechanism (154) forming a first airtight seal (156) on the input port (148, 306) when a pipe (136, 252, 268, 312) is connected to the input port (148, 306), An air monitoring system (104,228) includes a second sealing mechanism (158) connected to the sampling port (150,310), the second sealing mechanism (158) forming a second airtight seal (159) on the sampling port (150,310) when a probe (160,314) of a gas analysis system (120) is inserted into the sampling port (150,310), wherein bypass air (128,402) enters the input port (148,306), passes through the chamber (144,404), and is discharged from the pump port (152,308). An air monitoring system wherein, when the bypass air (128,402) passes through the chamber (144,404) and is drawn out from the pump port (152,308), the pressure (162) of the bypass air (128,402) is not raised above the pressure level (164) required for the gas analysis system (120) to analyze an air sample (130,414) from the bypass air (128,402), and the probe (160,314) collects the air sample (130,414) from the bypass air (128,402) as it moves through the chamber (144,404).

[0144] Note 2. The air monitoring system (104,228) described in Note 1, wherein the gas analysis system (120) operates to identify a set of components (168) in the air sample (130,414) drawn from the bypass air (128,402) by the probe (160,314).

[0145] Note 3. The air monitoring system (104,228) according to Note 1 or 2, further comprising a pump system (118) connected to the pump port (152,308), wherein the pump system (118) moves the bypass air (128,402) through the input port (148,306) and the chamber (144,404) to be discharged from the pump port (152,308), and in doing so operates such that the pressure (162) of the bypass air (128,402) does not exceed the pressure level (164) required for the gas analysis system (120) to analyze the air sample (130,414) from the bypass air (128,402).

[0146] Note 4. The air monitoring system (104,228) according to any one of Notes 1 to 3, wherein the main body (146,206,406,700) is T-shaped, the tube (136,252,268,312) has a first diameter (600) that is larger than the second diameter (602) of the probe (160,314), and the probe (160,314) is inserted through the sampling port (150,310) and through the chamber (144,404) of the air contact section (116,300).

[0147] Note 5. The probe (160,314) extends into the pipe (136,252,268,312) through the input port (148,306), as described in the air monitoring system (104,228) in Note 4.

[0148] Note 6. The ratio of the first diameter (600) to the second diameter (602) is approximately 3.5:1, as described in Note 5 for the air monitoring system (104,228).

[0149] Note 7. The air monitoring system (104,228) according to any one of Notes 1 to 6, wherein the air contact section (116,300) includes a set of materials to prevent contamination of the air sample (130,414) with contaminants or absorption of components (168) from the air sample (130,414).

[0150] Note 8. The pressure (162) of the bypass air (128,402) is atmospheric pressure, as described in any of Notes 1 to 7 of the air monitoring system (104,228).

[0151] Note 9. The air communication section (116,300) comprises a set of materials selected from the group consisting of metal, plastic, ceramic, and combinations thereof, as described in any of Notes 1 to 8, for the air monitoring system (104,228).

[0152] Note 10. The air monitoring system as described in Note 9 (104,228), wherein the metal is selected from one or more of aluminum, titanium, nickel, stainless steel, and alloys thereof.

[0153] Note 11. The gas analysis system (120) is an air monitoring system (104,228) as described in any of Notes 1 to 10, selected from at least one of a gas chromatograph, mass spectrometer, ion mobility spectrometer, infrared spectrometer, biosensor, optical biosensor, electrochemical biosensor, or a combination thereof.

[0154] Note 12. Computer systems (122) and, An air monitoring system (104,228) including a controller (124) in the computer system (122), The controller (124) is Air (102, 726, 730) is moved as bypass air (128, 402) from the collection port (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800) for the cavities (126, 702, 704, 706) to the pipe (136, 252, 268, 312) connected to the collection port (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800), The bypass air (128,402) is introduced into the input port (148,306) of the air liaison unit (116,300) connected to the pipe (136,252,268,312), and discharged (902) through the chamber (144,404) of the air liaison unit (116,300) from the pump port (152,308) of the air liaison unit (116,300). At the same time, the pressure (162) of the bypass air (128,402) is used to collect an air sample (130,414) from the bypass air (128,402). The pump system (118) is operated to control the gas so that the pressure level (164) does not rise above the pressure level (164) required for analysis by the gas analysis system (120), and the collection port (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800) is located in a given position within a cavity (126, 702, 704, 706) in the platform (106), and an airtight seal exists between the pipe (136, 252, 268, 312) and the input port (148, 306). The controller further controls the gas analysis system (120), which is connected to the sampling port (150, 310) of the air communication section (116, 300) by a probe (160, 314), to perform an operation to collect an air sample (130, 414) from the bypass air (128, 402) passing through the air communication section (116, 300) and analyze the air sample (130, 414) to measure a set of components (168) within the air sample (130, 414), thereby creating an air monitoring system.

[0155] Note 13. The aforementioned pipes (136, 252, 268, 312) are connected to the collection ports (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800) by the pipeline network (112, 230, 232, 712), and the controller (124) is, An air monitoring system (104,228) as described in Appendix 12, which operates to control the pipeline network (112,230,232,712) to draw the air (102,726,730) from the collection port (132,246,248,250,262,264,266,720,721,722,800) located at a given position within the cavity (126,702,704,706) in the platform (106) into the pipe (136,252,268,312) as the bypass air (128,402).

[0156] Note 14. The aforementioned conduit network (112, 230, 232, 712) is A network conduit (138) connected to multiple collection ports (114) at multiple locations within a set of cavities (108) in the platform (106), An air monitoring system (104,228) as described in Appendix 13, comprising a valve system (140,244,260), the valve system (140,244,260) being controlled by the controller (124) to select the collection port (132,246,248,250,262,264,266,720,721,722,800), thereby causing the pump system (118) to move the bypass air (128,402) from the collection port (132,246,248,250,262,264,266,720,721,722,800) to the pipe (136,252,268,312) and through the air connection section (116,300).

[0157] Note 15. A gas (728) is injected into a pair of cavities (108) at a first position in the pair of cavities (108), the given position being a second position in the pair of cavities (108) on the platform (106), and when analyzing the air sample (130,414) to measure the pair of components (168) within the air sample (130,414), the controller (124) The gas analysis system (120) is controlled to detect the gas (728) in the air sample (130,414) of the bypass air (128,402) received from the second position in the cavity (126,702,704,706) of the set of cavities (108) via the pipe (136,252,268,312) connected to the pipeline network (112,230,232,712) communicating with the collection port (132,246,248,250,262,264,266,720,721,722,800) at the second position in the cavity (126,702,704,706) of the set of cavities (108), The controller (124) is An air monitoring system (104,228) according to any of the appendices 12 to 14, which operates to determine the velocity of the airflow based on the distance from the first position to the second position, the first time when the gas (728) is injected into the pair of cavities (108) at the first position, and the second time when the gas (728) is detected in the air sample (130,414) from the bypass air (128,402) at the second position.

[0158] Note 16. The air monitoring system (104,228) described in any of Notes 12 to 15, wherein the controller (124) operates to determine the air quality of the air (102,726,730) at a given location within the cavity (126,702,704,706) using the analysis results of the air sample (130,414) prepared by the gas analysis system (120) that analyzes the air sample (130,414).

[0159] Note 17. The controller (124) determines the air quality of the air (102,726,730) at a given position within the cavity (126,702,704,706) using the analysis results of the air sample (130,414) prepared by the gas analysis system (120) which analyzes the air sample (130,414) during the operation of the platform (106), as described in the air monitoring system (104,228) in Note 16.

[0160] Note 18. The air monitoring system (104,228) according to any one of Notes 12 to 17, wherein the air contact section (116,300) is T-shaped, the pipe (136,252,268,312) has a first diameter (600) that is larger than the second diameter (602) of the probe (160,314), and the probe (160,314) is inserted into the pipe (136,252,268,312) which is inserted into the input port (148,306) via the sampling port (150,310) and the chamber (144,404) of the air contact section (116,300).

[0161] Note 19. The platform (106) is an air monitoring system (104,228) as described in any of Notes 12 to 18, which includes one or more of the following: a mobile platform, a stationary platform, a land-based structure, a water-based structure, a space-based structure, an aircraft, a civilian aircraft, a rotary-wing aircraft, a tiltrotor aircraft, a tilt-wing aircraft, a vertical take-off and landing aircraft, a surface ship, a cruise ship, a tank, a personnel carrier, a train, a spacecraft, a space station, a satellite, a submarine, a car, a power plant, a dam, a house, a manufacturing facility, and a building.

[0162] Note 20. A method for monitoring air (102,726,730), Air (102, 726, 730) is moved (900) as bypass air (128, 402) from collection ports (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800) connected to pipes (136, 252, 268, 312) as collection air (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800), The bypass air (128,402) is moved (902) from the pipe (136,252,268,312) through the input port (148,306) of the air communication section (116,300), through the chamber (144,404) of the air communication section (116,300), and discharged from the pump port (152,308) of the air communication section (116,300), and as the bypass air (128,402) moves through the chamber (144,404) of the air communication section (116,300), the bypass air (128,402) 2) The pressure (162) is not set higher than the pressure level required for the gas analysis system (120) to analyze the air sample (130,414) collected from the bypass air (128,402), a first airtight seal (156) is present between the pipe (136,252,268,312) and the input port (148,306), and a second airtight seal (159) is present between the probe (160,314) of the gas analysis system (120) and the sampling port (150,310) of the air connection section (116,300). As the bypass air (128,402) moves through the chamber (144,404), the probe (160,314) inserted from the sampling port (150,310) into the air contact section (116,300) is used to collect an air sample (130,414) from the bypass air (128,402) (904). A method for analyzing the air sample (130, 414) using the gas analysis system (120) to measure a set of components (168) within the air sample (130, 414) (906).

[0163] Note 21. The collection ports (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800) are located in a given position within a cavity (126, 702, 704, 706) in the platform (106), and the pipes (136, 252, 268, 312) are connected to the collection ports (132, 246, 248, 250, 262, 264, 266, 720, 721, 722, 800) by a pipeline network (112, 230, 232, 712) within the platform (106). Furthermore, the method according to Appendix 20, wherein the bypass air (128,402) is moved from the collection port (132,246,248,250,262,264,266,720,721,722,800) located at a given position within the cavity (126,702,704,706) in the platform (106) to the pipe (136,252,268,312) via the pipeline network (112,230,232,712) within the platform (106) (1000).

[0164] Note 22. When a gas (728) is injected into a pair of cavities (108) at a first position in the pair of cavities (108), the given position is the second position in the pair of cavities (108) on the platform (106), and when analyzing the air sample (130,414) to measure the pair of components (168) in the air sample (130,414), From the second position in one of the cavities (126,702,704,706) of the set of cavities (108), the gas (728) in the air sample (130,414) of the bypass air (128,402) received via the pipe (136,252,268,312) connected to the pipeline network (112,230,232,712) communicating with the collection port (132,246,248,250,262,264,266,720,721,722,800) at the second position in one of the cavities (126,702,704,706) of the set of cavities (108) is detected (1100), The method according to Appendix 20 or 21, further comprising determining the velocity of the airflow of the air (102,726,730) based on the distance from the first position to the second position, a first time when the gas (728) is injected into the pair of cavities (108) at the first position, and a second time when the gas (728) is detected in the air sample (130,414) from the bypass air (128,402) at the second position (1200).

[0165] Note 23. Furthermore, the method according to any one of the notes 20 to 22, wherein the air quality of the air (102,726,730) at the location of the collection port (132,246,248,250,262,264,266,720,721,722,800) in the cavity (126,702,704,706) in the platform (106) is determined (1300) using the analysis results of the air samples (130,414) prepared by the gas analysis system (120) that analyzes the air samples (130,414).

[0166] Note 24. When determining the air quality of the air (102,726,730) at the location within the cavity (126,702,704,706) using the analysis results of the air samples (130,414) prepared by the gas analysis system (120) that analyzes the air samples (130,414), The method according to Appendix 23, wherein, during the operation of the platform (106), the air quality of the air (102,726,730) at the location within the cavity (126,702,704,706) is determined (1400) using the analysis results of the air samples (130,414) prepared by the gas analysis system (120) that analyzes the air samples (130,414).

[0167] Note 25. The method according to any one of the methods in Notes 20 to 24, wherein the pressure (162) of the air (102,726,730) is atmospheric pressure.

[0168] Many modifications or variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, various exemplary embodiments may result in features that differ from other preferred embodiments. One or more embodiments have been selected and described to best illustrate the principles and practical applications of the embodiments and to enable those skilled in the art to understand the disclosures for various embodiments with various modifications suited to the specific applications envisioned.

Claims

1. The main body includes a chamber, the chamber having an air communication section that is in fluid communication with an input port, a sampling port, and a pump port, A first sealing mechanism connected to the input port, the first sealing mechanism forming a first airtight seal at the input port when a pipe is connected to the input port, An air monitoring system comprising a second sealing mechanism connected to the sampling port, the second sealing mechanism forming a second airtight seal on the sampling port when a probe of a gas analysis system is inserted into the sampling port, wherein bypass air enters the input port, moves through the chamber, and is discharged from the pump port, and as the bypass air is drawn out of the pump port through the chamber, the pressure of the bypass air is not raised above a pressure level for the gas analysis system to analyze an air sample from the bypass air, and the probe is configured to take the air sample from the bypass air as it moves through the chamber. An air monitoring system in which the probe extends through the chamber to at least the discharge end of the tube so as to receive the air sample directly from the tube.

2. The air monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the gas analysis system operates to identify a set of components in the air sample drawn in from the bypass air by the probe.

3. The air monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a pump system connected to the pump port, wherein the pump system moves the bypass air through the input port and the chamber and discharges it from the pump port, and in doing so operates so that the pressure of the bypass air does not exceed a pressure level for the gas analysis system to analyze the air sample from the bypass air.

4. The main body includes a chamber, the chamber having an air communication section that is in fluid communication with an input port, a sampling port, and a pump port, A first sealing mechanism connected to the input port, the first sealing mechanism forming a first airtight seal at the input port when a pipe is connected to the input port, An air monitoring system comprising a second sealing mechanism connected to the sampling port, the second sealing mechanism forming a second airtight seal on the sampling port when a probe of a gas analysis system is inserted into the sampling port, wherein bypass air enters the input port, moves through the chamber, and is discharged from the pump port, and as the bypass air is drawn out of the pump port through the chamber, the pressure of the bypass air is not raised above a pressure level for the gas analysis system to analyze an air sample from the bypass air, and the probe is configured to take the air sample from the bypass air as it moves through the chamber. An air monitoring system wherein the main body is T-shaped, the tube has a first diameter larger than the second diameter of the probe, and the probe is inserted through the sampling port and through the chamber of the air communication section.

5. The air monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the probe extends into the pipe through the input port.

6. The air monitoring system according to claim 4, wherein the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is 3.5:

1.

7. The air monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the pressure of the bypass air is atmospheric pressure.

8. The air monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the gas analysis system is selected from at least one of a gas chromatograph, a mass spectrometer, an ion mobility spectrometer, an infrared spectrometer, a biosensor, an optical biosensor, an electrochemical biosensor, or a combination thereof.

9. Computer systems and, An air monitoring system including a controller in the aforementioned computer system, The aforementioned controller, Air is moved as bypass air from a collection port for the cavity to a pipe connected to the collection port, the bypass air is introduced to the input port of an air liaison connected to the pipe, and discharged through the chamber of the air liaison from the pump port of the air liaison, while the pump system is operated to control the pressure of the bypass air so as not to exceed the pressure level required for the gas analysis system to analyze the air sample collected from the bypass air, the collection port is located in a given position within the cavity on the platform, and an airtight seal exists between the pipe and the input port. The controller further controls the gas analysis system connected to the sampling port of the air junction by a probe, thereby causing it to collect an air sample from the bypass air passing through the air junction and analyze the air sample to measure a set of components within the air sample. An air monitoring system in which the probe extends through the chamber to at least the discharge end of the tube so as to receive the air sample directly from the tube.

10. The pipe is connected to the collection port by a pipeline network, and the controller is The air monitoring system according to claim 9, which operates to control the pipeline network so that the air is drawn into the pipes via the pipeline network within the platform as bypass air from the collection port located at a given position in the cavity within the platform.

11. The aforementioned conduit network is A network conduit connected to multiple collection ports at multiple locations within a set of cavities in the platform, The air monitoring system according to claim 10, comprising a valve system, the valve system being controlled by the controller to select the collection port, thereby causing the pump system to move the bypass air from the collection port through the pipe.

12. A computer system and An air monitoring system including a controller in the aforementioned computer system, The controller moves air as bypass air from a collection port for the cavity to a tube connected to the collection port, introduces the bypass air to the input port of an air liaison connected to the tube, and discharges it through the chamber of the air liaison from the pump port of the air liaison, while controlling the pump system so that the pressure of the bypass air does not exceed the pressure level required for the gas analysis system to analyze the air sample collected from the bypass air, wherein the collection port is located in a given position within the cavity on the platform, and an airtight seal exists between the tube and the input port. The controller further controls the gas analysis system connected to the sampling port of the air junction by a probe, thereby causing it to collect an air sample from the bypass air passing through the air junction and analyze the air sample to measure a set of components within the air sample. Gas is injected into a pair of cavities at a first position in a pair of cavities, the given position being a second position in the pair of cavities on the platform, and when analyzing the air sample to measure the set of components in the air sample, the controller controls the gas analysis system to detect the gas in the air sample of the bypass air received from the second position in the pair of cavities via the pipe connected to the pipeline network communicating with the collection port at the second position in the pair of cavities. An air monitoring system in which the controller operates to determine the velocity of the airflow based on the distance from the first position to the second position, a first time when the gas is injected into the pair of cavities at the first position, and a second time when the gas is detected in the air sample from the bypass air at the second position.

13. The air monitoring system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the platform includes one or more of the following: a mobile platform, a stationary platform, a land-based structure, a water-based structure, a space-based structure, an aircraft, a civilian aircraft, a rotary-wing aircraft, a tiltrotor aircraft, a tilt-wing aircraft, a vertical take-off and landing aircraft, a surface ship, a cruise ship, a tank, a personnel carrier, a train, a spacecraft, a space station, a satellite, a submarine, a car, a power plant, a dam, a house, a manufacturing facility, and a building.

14. A method for monitoring the air, Air is moved as bypass air from the collection port connected to the pipe. The bypass air is moved from the pipe, through the input port of the air junction, through the chamber of the air junction, and discharged from the pump port of the air junction, and as the bypass air moves through the chamber of the air junction, the pressure of the bypass air is not raised above the pressure level required for the gas analysis system to analyze the air sample collected from the bypass air, a first airtight seal exists between the pipe and the input port, and a second airtight seal exists between the probe of the gas analysis system and the sampling port of the air junction. As the bypass air moves through the chamber, the probe inserted into the air contact port through the sampling port is used to collect an air sample from the bypass air. The air sample is analyzed using the gas analysis system to measure a set of components within the air sample. A method wherein the probe extends through the chamber to at least the discharge end of the tube so as to receive the air sample directly from the tube.

15. The collection port is located at a given position within a cavity in the platform, and the pipe is connected to the collection port by a pipeline network within the platform. The method according to claim 14, further comprising moving the bypass air from the collection port located at a given position in the cavity on the platform to the pipe via the pipeline network within the platform.

Images