Colorimetric Sensor Calibration via Humidification and Reference Gas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Chemical based colorimetric techniques for measuring carbon dioxide concentrations in breath face challenges such as slow response times, batch-to-batch variations, sensitivity to environmental factors, and calibration complexities, making them less reliable for real-time monitoring, especially outside clinical settings.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for calibrating chemical colorimetric indicators using a combination of humidification and exposure to gases with known CO2 concentrations, allowing for quick and accurate characterization and calibration, enabling reliable quantitative CO2 measurements in a user-friendly and cost-effective manner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If chemical colorimetric indicators are used for CO2 measurement, then cost is reduced and simplicity is achieved, but response time is slow and accuracy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical indicator formulation by changing parameters such as indicator concentration, carrier gas composition, and chamber geometry to optimize the balance between response time and cost-effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters including flow rate, indicator exposure time, and signal processing thresholds to adapt to different breathing patterns and CO2 concentrations in real-time
2Device complexity
If chemical colorimetric indicators are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability are insufficient for real-time monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors indicator response, compares it against reference values, and automatically adjusts measurement parameters or triggers recalibration to maintain precision without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical calibration mechanisms with electronic signal processing and algorithmic corrections that achieve precise measurements through software rather than hardware complexity
3Productivity
If colorimetric indicators are manufactured with standard protocols, then manufacturing efficiency is maintained, but batch-to-batch variations and sensitivity to environmental factors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary characterization and calibration of colorimetric indicators during manufacturing, establishing baseline performance parameters and compensation factors that ensure consistent reliability across batches without reducing manufacturing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically compensates for environmental variations by adjusting measurement parameters based on recorded temperature, humidity, and pressure conditions, maintaining reliability across different environmental conditions
4Ease of operation
If calibration is performed manually after removal from packaging, then user flexibility is improved, but calibration complexity and potential for error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service calibration where the system automatically performs calibration procedures using built-in reference gases and algorithms, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining user flexibility through automated guided calibration workflows
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces intermediary calibration reference gases and standardized protocols that mediate between the user and the complex calibration process, simplifying the procedure while maintaining calibration accuracy through standardized intermediate steps
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 method improves the reliability, accuracy, and ease of use of chemical colorimetric indicators by enabling rapid calibration, reducing batch-to-batch variations, and enhancing responsiveness to CO2 concentrations, making them suitable for non-clinical applications like breathing therapy.
Implementation Method 1
chemical based colorimetric techniques for measuring carbon dioxide concentrations in breath
Implementation Method 2
humidifying a chemical colorimetric indicator
Data Source
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AI summary
Quantitative colorimetric carbon dioxide measurement and measurement systems and methods are disclosed. The methods can include methods for calibrating a chemical colorimetric indicator used in the quantitative colorimetric carbon dioxide measurement system. Apparatuses are disclosed including a cartridge comprising a chemical colorimetric indicator that is configured to removably engage with a quantitative colorimetric measurement system. Cartridges containing a sealed container comprising a reference gas with a known concentration of carbon dioxide are also disclosed. Systems and methods for humidifying the chemical colorimetric indicator are also provided. Methods for using the systems are also disclosed including providing a breathing therapy to a patient or user.