Optical Gas Sensor Aging Compensation Through Spectral Correction

The patent applies parameter changes by measuring light intensity at multiple temperature levels or supply current levels to establish a correction function. This function captures how the light source emission characteristics change with operating parameters, enabling accurate compensation for aging effects. The correction function is derived from measurements at different parameter states, allowing the system to adapt to light source degradation over time.

The patent replaces the simple reference photodetector measurement approach with a correction function-based system. Instead of relying solely on a reference measurement that assumes uniform aging across spectral bands, the system uses a mathematically derived correction function that accounts for differential aging. This substitution transforms the aging compensation mechanism from a direct physical measurement to a calculated correction based on established relationships.

The patent applies preliminary action by establishing the correction function during a calibration phase before actual gas measurements are performed. During this preliminary phase, the system measures light intensity at multiple temperature or current levels to derive the correction function. Once established, this function is stored and applied during normal operation without requiring repeated complex measurements, thus reducing ongoing operational complexity while maintaining high precision.

The patent uses copying by creating a mathematical model (correction function) that replicates the relationship between light source operating parameters and emission intensity. Instead of physically measuring at full complexity during every operation, the system copies the essential aging behavior through the correction function derived from preliminary calibration data, simplifying the ongoing measurement process while preserving accuracy.