Aircraft HEPA Filter Sampling for Bulk Pathogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for monitoring and detecting pathogens in aircraft cabins are inadequate, particularly due to the challenges of obtaining representative samples from HEPA filters and ensuring virus-free certification of aircraft, which is crucial for preventing the spread of infectious diseases during air travel.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for collecting a representative air sample from a HEPA filter by processing used filters at a remote location, using centrifugal wash or a handheld tool with a sponge to concentrate the sample for PCR testing, and employing a removable strip for easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sampling methods are used to obtain air samples from HEPA filters, then the sampling process becomes complex and time-consuming, but the ability to detect pathogens is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sampling function from complex conventional methods by using a simple removable strip that can be easily detached from the HEPA filter. This strip contains the captured pathogen samples and can be directly transferred to testing facilities, eliminating the need for complex sampling apparatus and procedures while maintaining high detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The HEPA filter is divided into a permanent filter structure and a removable sampling strip. The strip segment contains the sampling functionality and can be separately removed and transported for testing, simplifying the overall sampling process while preserving pathogen detection capabilities
2Measurement precision
If individual traveler testing is performed, then sample collection becomes difficult and time-consuming, but pathogen detection can be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges samples from multiple travelers into a single bulk sample collected from the HEPA filter. This combines the sampling efforts of many individuals into one collective sample that can be tested simultaneously, dramatically reducing the time required for sample collection while maintaining the ability to detect viruses through bulk screening
3Reliability
If HEPA filters are replaced after each flight, then contamination risk is reduced, but resource waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of discarding the entire HEPA filter after each flight, the patent recovers and reuses the permanent filter structure. Only the removable sampling strip is discarded after use, significantly reducing material waste while maintaining the reliability of virus-free certification through proper sampling and testing protocols
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient bulk screening of aircraft for pathogens, providing early identification and improved health controls at airports, enhancing the ability to detect and manage infectious diseases.
Implementation Method 1
The HEPA filter is configured and adapted to clean air flowing through a recirculation flow path
Implementation Method 2
The samples can be removed by inverted flow or by using centrifugal wash
Data Source
AI summary
A method for collecting an aircraft cabin representative biological sample from an aircraft HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter including collecting a used HEPA filter after flight, transferring the HEPA filter to a remote location, processing the HEPA filter in order to remove an air sample, and concentrating the collected sample to be used on a pathogen identifying tester.