Breath Gas Sensor Array Layout for Early VOC Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting diseases through volatile organic compounds in gaseous samples are not efficient or accurate, particularly in providing early detection of disease states.
Innovation Solution
A gas measurement device with a housing containing a fluid ingress and egress port, a circuit board with gas sensors, and a configuration that allows for efficient gas flow and electrical communication, utilizing graphene varactors to detect specific chemical compounds in breath samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional disease detection methods are used, then detection capability is provided, but detection accuracy and efficiency are insufficient for early disease detection
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the detection task by using multiple gas sensors with different sensitivities arranged in an array, each sensor detecting different aspects of VOC profiles. This segmentation allows for more comprehensive and accurate disease detection compared to single-sensor systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces graphene varactors as intermediary sensing elements that convert chemical interactions with VOCs into measurable electrical signals. These varactors act as mediators between the gas molecules and the measurement system, enabling highly sensitive detection of disease-related compounds
2Measurement precision
If multiple gas sensors are used to improve detection accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple gas sensors onto a single circuit board within a unified housing structure. The sensors are integrated with shared electrical connections and signal processing circuitry, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high detection accuracy through multi-sensor arrays
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the sensor array, electrical connections for all sensors, signal processing capabilities, and data output interfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture
3Volume of moving object
If a compact device design is implemented, then device portability improves, but gas flow path efficiency may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the gas flow path by utilizing three-dimensional space within the compact housing. The flow path winds through the interior volume in multiple dimensions, ensuring efficient gas distribution across all sensors without requiring a large device footprint. This dimensional optimization maintains analysis efficiency while achieving compact form factor
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
The device provides a compact and efficient design for detecting health status and disease states by analyzing gas samples, offering improved accuracy and early disease detection.
Implementation Method 1
Some disease states result in the production of specific chemical compounds. In some cases, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released into a gaseous sample of a patient can be hallmarks of certain diseases. The detection of these compounds or differential sensing of the same can allow for the early detection of particular disease states.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments herein relate to breath analysis system. In an embodiment, a gas measurement device is included having a housing defining an interior volume. The housing can include a fluid ingress port, a fluid egress port, a bottom wall, and a circuit board disposed within the interior volume. The circuit board can include a first side and a second side, where the first side of the circuit board faces inward toward the interior volume. The circuit board can include a plurality of gas sensors disposed on the first side of the circuit board and a plurality of conductive pads disposed on the second side of the circuit board, wherein a plurality of electrical contacts contact the conductive pads when the circuit board is seated within the housing. Other embodiments are also included herein.