Remote Odour Sampling with Thermoregulation and Inert Bags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current delayed olfactometry sampling techniques face challenges in capturing representative odour emissions due to temporal and spatial variability, often resulting in samples that are not taken when discomfort is perceived, and are cumbersome and not cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A remotely activated sampling equipment using inert bags with thermoregulation and remote control capabilities, including SMS or internet activation, to collect and store odour samples in a controlled environment, preventing condensation and photochemical reactions, and allowing unattended sampling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional delayed olfactometry sampling is used with operator intervention, then sampling can be performed according to specifications, but the time lapse between reporting and intervention causes complete dispersion of the odour trail and samples are not representative
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically deploying sampling bags and initiating odour capture immediately when triggered by olfactory harassment reports, eliminating the delay associated with operator intervention. The automated system is pre-positioned and ready to act instantly, ensuring samples are taken at the critical moment when odour emissions occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system serves itself by automatically detecting odour events through remote triggers, deploying sampling equipment, and storing samples without requiring human operator intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the time loss between reporting and sampling while maintaining measurement precision.
2Productivity
If automated remote sampling equipment is implemented, then timely and representative sampling is achieved, but system complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular functional units: remote communication module, automated deployment mechanism, sampling bag system, and thermoregulation unit. This segmentation allows for simpler individual components that can be manufactured and maintained more easily while achieving high productivity through their coordinated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses disposable sampling bags that are inexpensive and single-use, eliminating the need for complex cleaning and sterilization systems. This approach maintains high productivity while reducing overall system complexity and cost by replacing expensive reusable components with affordable disposable alternatives.
3Reliability
If samples are stored at ambient temperature, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but condensation occurs and sample integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the temperature parameter of the storage environment from ambient to a controlled range (2-8°C) to prevent condensation and maintain sample integrity. This parameter change is achieved through a relatively simple refrigeration system that maintains reliable sample storage without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an inert controlled environment within the sampling equipment, using temperature control to prevent condensation and potentially using inert gas filling to prevent photochemical reactions. This inert environment protects sample integrity while maintaining manageable system complexity through proven environmental control techniques.
4Reliability
If opaque containers are used for sampling, then photochemical reactions are prevented and sample integrity is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses composite material construction for sampling containers, combining opaque materials that block light with insulation layers for thermoregulation. This composite approach prevents photochemical reactions and maintains sample stability while remaining manufacturable through standard industrial processes for multi-layer containers.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Sampling equipment (10) of odour emissions, characterized in that it comprises: - pickup and storage means (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20) of air samples containing the odour emissions; and - remote activation means (21) and/or sensors for the activation of said pickup and storage means (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20).