Odor Sensor Model Training With Adaptive Measurement Conditions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Odor sensors face challenges in achieving high detection accuracy due to varying measurement conditions such as temperature and humidity, requiring numerous variations in conditions to be prepared, which is impractical and difficult to determine the necessary number for sufficient accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A learning model generation support apparatus and method that acquires sensor data and condition data under specific measurement conditions, inputs this data into a machine learning engine to generate a learning model, and sets new measurement conditions based on predictive accuracy to enhance detection accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple variations of measurement conditions are prepared to enhance detection accuracy, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and difficulty in determining necessary variations increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidnumber of measurement condition variations
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameters of measurement conditions systematically by using a machine learning model to identify which condition parameters (temperature, humidity, etc.) most affect detection accuracy. This allows focusing on critical parameter variations rather than preparing all possible condition variations, thereby improving detection accuracy while reducing the complexity of preparing multiple condition sets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback through machine learning models that analyze detection results under different measurement conditions and provide information about which conditions yield optimal accuracy. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adaptively determine necessary condition variations, reducing the need to pre-prepare extensive condition variations while maintaining high detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If numerous measurement condition variations are prepared, then detection accuracy under varying conditions is improved, but time and resources required for data collection increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidtime for data collection
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by using machine learning models to predict which measurement condition variations will be most beneficial for detection accuracy before actual data collection begins. This allows the system to prioritize data collection under specific conditions, significantly reducing the time required compared to collecting data under all possible condition variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements partial action by collecting data under a selected subset of measurement conditions determined by machine learning analysis, rather than collecting data under all possible conditions. This partial approach to data collection achieves sufficient detection accuracy while dramatically reducing the time and resources required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If measurement conditions are fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different odors and conditions decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveodor detection versatilityVSAvoidlearning model generation system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by implementing a machine learning-based system that dynamically adapts to different odor types and measurement conditions. Rather than using fixed measurement conditions, the system learns optimal conditions for each odor type, enabling high versatility while managing complexity through adaptive algorithms rather than extensive hardware configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Supports the setting of optimal measurement conditions for odor sensors with non-fixed analysis targets, enabling the creation of highly accurate learning models for odor detection.

Implementation Method 1

A piezoresistive element is embedded in each bridge. In such a configuration, the circular portion deforms due to stress occurring in the sensitive membrane when a substance sticks to the sensitive membrane, leading to stress being applied to the bridges. As a result, the electrical resistance of the piezoresistive elements embedded in the bridges changes greatly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoresistive effect: Piezoresistive Effect

Implementation Method 2

An odor sensor detects a specific odor, by using a sensor element to detect an airborne chemical substance that produces the specific odor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Data Source

PatentUS12066417B2Learning model generation support apparatus, learning model generation support method, and computer-readable recording medium
Publication Date: 2024.08.20 NEC CORP
  • US12066417B2 patent drawing
  • US12066417B2 patent drawing
  • US12066417B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A learning model generation support apparatus 10 is an apparatus for supporting generation of a learning model to be utilized in odor detection using an odor sensor that reacts to a plurality of types of odors. The learning model generation support apparatus 10 includes a data acquisition unit 11 that acquires sensor data output by the odor sensor under specific measurement conditions and condition data specifying the measurement conditions, and inputs, as training data, the acquired sensor data and condition data to a machine learning engine 31 that generates the learning model, and a condition setting unit 12 that acquires a predictive accuracy output by the machine learning engine in response to input of the training data, and sets new measurement conditions for when the odor sensor newly outputs sensor data as training data, based on the acquired predictive accuracy.