Calibration Tool With Membrane Dispenser For Trace Detectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detectors for trace amounts of explosives and narcotics require frequent calibration due to variations in atmospheric conditions, and existing calibration methods are not suitable for detectors analyzing residue on individuals, leading to potential inaccuracies in detection.
Innovation Solution
A calibration tool with a reservoir and dispenser system that allows for easy application of calibration and verification solutions, mimicking the signature of substances of interest, to ensure accurate detector calibration across varying environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If detectors are used to detect trace amounts of substances in varying atmospheric conditions, then detection capability is maintained, but calibration accuracy deteriorates due to environmental variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a controlled copy of the detection environment by enclosing the calibration solution in a sealed container with a membrane that mimics the atmospheric interface. This allows calibration to be performed in a controlled manner while accounting for atmospheric variations, resolving the contradiction between maintaining detection capability in varying conditions and preserving calibration accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and containment parameters of the calibration solution by sealing it in a container with a selective membrane. This allows the calibration process to account for atmospheric conditions while maintaining solution integrity, enabling accurate calibration across varying environmental parameters.
2Ease of operation
If calibration solutions are applied directly to detectors, then calibration process is simplified, but solution contamination and evaporation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sealed container with a selective membrane as an intermediary between the calibration solution and the detector. This intermediary allows the calibration vapor to reach the detector while preventing direct contact that would cause contamination and evaporation, thus maintaining ease of operation while preventing substance loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible membrane in the sealed container that allows vapor transmission while maintaining containment. This thin film structure enables the calibration process to proceed without direct exposure of the solution to the environment or detector, preventing evaporation and contamination while keeping the system simple to operate.
3Measurement precision
If frequent calibration is performed to maintain detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but time consumption and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares calibration solutions in advance and seals them in containers with controlled release characteristics. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid calibration operations since the solutions are pre-packaged and ready for immediate use, reducing the time and complexity of frequent calibration operations while maintaining detection accuracy.
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 calibration tool enables precise calibration of detectors, ensuring consistent performance despite environmental changes, thereby enhancing the accuracy of detecting trace amounts of explosives and narcotics.
Implementation Method 1
a wick that has one end in communication with the reservoir and another end exposed externally on the handle
Data Source
AI summary
The calibration tool is provided for use with a detector, such as a detector for detecting trace amounts of one or more substances of interest. The calibration tool includes a body with at least one reservoir for retaining the calibration solution therein. A nib projects from the body and communicates with the reservoir. The nib can be wiped across a detection surface and the detection surface then may be presented to a detector. The detector then can be calibrated for the particular substance of interest in the calibration solution. The calibration tool may include plural reservoirs isolated from one another and plural nibs for applying the calibration solution to a detection surface. A detector kit is also provided.