Abstract: A fluid sensor device includes a number of components integrated onto a substrate, such as a semiconductor substrate. The integrated components include analyte-detection transducers, signal processing circuitry for manipulating the signals from the transducers, an elevated interconnect scheme, and thermal regulation capability. The substrate is compatible with the use of integrated circuit fabrication techniques. The interconnect scheme enables dense vias that extend generally perpendicular to the surface of the substrate. The transducers are formed on a planarized side of the interconnect scheme opposite to the substrate. Inkjet printing techniques may be used in locating the transducer materials. Alternatively, the transducers may be photosensitive polymers that polymerize when exposed to light.

Abstract: Gaseous or volatile substances which are either themselves odor-active or components of odor-active mixtures of substances are applied to fabrics. The amount of these substances adsorbed by the textiles is then determined. It is then determined what amount of these substances is desorbed again by the textiles upon storage. Comparison of the results which are obtained on textiles which had been finished beforehand with textile auxiliaries with the results of non-finished textiles enables statements to be made regarding odor-inhibiting properties of textile auxiliaries.

Abstract: The invention relates to a chamber (2) for gas sensors (9) to be used in a device (1) for detecting aromas or odors. The chamber (2) comprises three portions (5, 6, 7) in which there is a uniform, turbulence-free flow (F) of gas or vapors to be analyzed, and at least one gas sensor (9) positioned in the central portion in such a way as to be immersed in and to laterally and tangentially interact with the flow (F). The chamber (2) also comprises a heating and temperature regulating device (16, 17). The invention also relates to an odor detection method which comprises a step in which a uniform, turbulence-free flow (F) of gas or vapor interacts with a gas sensor (9) laterally and tangentially.

Abstract: An apparatus (100) and method (400) for detecting the presence of one or more chemical contaminants in/on a plurality of items, e.g., cork stoppers (110), using nose chips (310). The apparatus utilizes detection sensor electronics (225) that are separate from the nose chips such that each nose chip can be either reused or discarded after use. The apparatus moves the nose chips and the cork stoppers independently to align the cork stopper and a corresponding nose chip with one another. The testing apparatus uses multiple sensor units (135) to simultaneously test multiple cork stoppers for chemical contaminants (e.g., TCA). The invention provides a low-cost, reliable process for testing 100% of cork stoppers in a fast and cost-effective manner that is scalable to the general consumer product market.

Abstract: The present invention provides a distributed sensing system in a networked environment for identifying an analyte, including a first sensor array connected to the network comprising sensors capable of producing a first response in the presence of a chemical stimulus; a second sensor array connected to the network comprising sensors capable of producing a second response in the presence of a physical stimulus; and a computer comprising a resident algorithm. The algorithm indicates or selects the most relevant sensor in the network to identify the analyte. The sensors can be separated over large spatial areas, wherein the sensor arrays are networked. Suitable networks include a computer local area network, an intranet or the Internet.

Abstract: Methods, systems and sensor arrays are provided implementing techniques for detecting an analyte in a fluid. The techniques include providing a sensor array including at least a first sensor and a second sensor in an arrangement having a defined fluid flow path, exposing the sensor array to a fluid including an analyte by introducing the fluid along the fluid flow path, measuring a response for the first sensor and the second sensor, and detecting the presence of the analyte in the fluid based on a spatio-temporal difference between the responses for the first and second sensors.

Abstract: An ultra accurate gas injection system with vehicle transient air simulation is provided. The device includes an input device, at least one mass flow device, an air flow device, a controller, such as a PC based controller, and an output device. The air flow device issues an air flow rate signal indicative of at least the actual air flow rate and receives an air flow control signal. The controller issues gas and air flow control signals, repeatedly reads the air flow rate signal and compares the actual air flow rate with the target air flow rate. The controller adjusts the air flow control signal such that the actual air flow rate is substantially equal to the target air flow rate. The mass flow device injects at least one gas into the air stream which is subsequently emitted into the external system to simulate exhaust gas from a vehicle.

Abstract: Data representing one or more characteristics of an input airflow (e.g., an airflow associated with a human being, such as breath or an airflow resulting from motion of the human being, or a wind tunnel airflow) is acquired and, if necessary or desirable, processed, then stored, transmitted to a remote location, and/or played back. Playback of acquired airflow data entails generating a display airflow corresponding to the input airflow. The characteristic of an airflow regarding which data is acquired is often the velocity of the airflow, though data regarding other airflow characteristics (e.g., direction, temperature, humidity, odor) can also be acquired in addition to, or instead of, airflow velocity.

Abstract: A vapor sensing device that is sufficiently small and lightweight to be handheld, and also modular so as to allow the device to be conveniently adapted for use in sensing the presence and concentration of a wide variety of specified vapors. The device provides these benefits using a sensor module that incorporates a sample chamber and a plurality of sensors located on a chip releasably carried within or adjacent to the sample chamber. Optionally, the sensor module can be configured to be releasably plugged into a receptacle formed in the device. Vapors are directed to pass through the sample chamber, whereupon the sensors provide a distinct combination of electrical signals in response to each. The sensors of the sensor module can take the form of chemically sensitive resistors having resistances that vary according to the identity and concentration of an adjacent vapor.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting gases, gasified agents or other analytes. The apparatus includes a solid body having a first surface area and a second surface area. A first, preferably polymeric, coating is superimposed on the first surface area of the solid body. A second, preferably polymeric, coating is superimposed on the second surface area of this solid body. The first coating and the second coating are different materials which adsorb different agents at different rates. A wave propagating transducer is positioned adjacent the solid body to propagate a first wavefront adjacent the first surface area of the solid body. This wave propagating transducer also propagates a second wavefront adjacent the second surface area of the solid body. These first and second wavefronts interfere to produce an interference pattern which is unique to the particular agent which is adsorbed by the first and second coatings.

Abstract: The present invention proposes an odor measuring apparatus capable of determining the similarity of the odor of an unknown sample with high objectivity and performing measurements with sensitivity similar to that of the human nose. According to a mode of the invention, an m-dimensional space is created from detection signals of m pieces of odor sensors, and a standard odor vector S1 representing the result of measurement of a standard odor and another vector Sx representing the result of measurement of an unknown sample are drawn in the space. Then, from the angle &thgr; between the two vectors, a degree of similarity is determined within the range from 0 to 100%, where the degree of similarity is corrected taking account of the difference in sensitivity between the odor sensor and the human nose.

Abstract: The invention relates to a chamber (2) for gas sensors (9) to be used in a device (1) for detecting aromas or odors. The chamber (2) comprises three portions (5, 6, 7) in which there is a uniform, turbulence-free flow (F) of gas or vapors to be analyzed, and at least one gas sensor (9) positioned in the central portion in such a way as to be immersed in and to laterally and tangentially interact with the flow (F). The chamber (2) also comprises a heating and temperature regulating device (16, 17). The invention also relates to an odor detection method which comprises a step in which a uniform, turbulence-free flow (F) of gas or vapor interacts with a gas sensor (9) laterally and tangentially.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sniffing leak detector (1) comprising a handpiece (2), supporting a sniffing tip (5) and with a gas sensor (11). According to the invention, a longer life and more accurate results may be achieved, whereby the leak detector is equipped with an acceleration sensor (16) for recording the movements of the handpiece (2).

Abstract: It is desirable to provide a gas chromatography type of chemical analysis method for estimating the change of body smell with progressive ageing of a living subject over a period of years by 1) utilization of the smell distinguishing ability of an experimental animal, 2) instrumental analysis, or 3) a combination of them. The present inventors found that the amounts of several volatile organic substances (e.g., 2-phenylacetamide, indole and phenol) present in mouse urine as substances responsible for the body smell are increased or decreased with ageing. The change in body smell with ageing of an animal can be estimated by quantitatively analyzing these compounds by an instrumental analysis method such as Y-shaped labyrinth method (involving live animals in a maze), gas chromatograph (GC) or high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for detection of volatile products from a sample using a transducer which changes voltage as a function of contact of the volatile products with the transducer to produce a gas signature of the volatile products and a spectrophotometer to analyze the volatile products to produce a spectral footprint of the volatile products. The apparatus and method are used to detect spoilage of a biological material, such as a food. The apparatus is also used to detect microorganisms and by comparing the gas signature and spectral footprint to a library of gas signatures and spectral footprints, the apparatus enables identification of the microorganisms and in particular identification of pathogenic microorganisms.

Abstract: A system and methods of the present invention advantageously provide efficient mail processing and handling that, as compared to existing procedures, enhances detection within the mail being processed or handled of biological, germ, chemical, or other harmful agents. A system and methods provide additionally a higher level of quality and consistency for processing and handling mail so that concerns over contamination of postal workers and potential mail recipients are reduced. A system and methods further provide enhanced disabling of contaminated mail contents, mail, mail equipment, mail containers, and mail personnel due to exposure or contact with harmful agents associated with mail.

Abstract: A vapor sensing device that is sufficiently small and lightweight to be handheld, and also modular so as to allow the device to be conveniently adapted for use in sensing the presence and concentration of a wide variety of specified vapors. The device provides these benefits using a sensor module that incorporates a sample chamber and a plurality of sensors located on a chip releasably carried within or adjacent to the sample chamber. Optionally, the sensor module can be configured to be releasably plugged into a receptacle formed in the device. Vapors are directed to pass through the sample chamber, whereupon the sensors provide a distinct combination of electrical signals in response to each. The sensors of the sensor module can take the form of chemically sensitive resistors having resistances that vary according to the identity and concentration of an adjacent vapor.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for evaluating the properties of hydrogen to improve the safety of hydrogen fuel, and provides a method for selecting proper odorants for hydrogen. Odorized hydrogen containing suitable odorants in appropriate concentrations with hydrogen are also provided.

Abstract: The artificial olfactory system is an ultra-sensitive and selective odor sensing system for the detection of odorant molecules down to the part per trillion level. The system includes multiple ultra sensitive frequency sensors, such as sensors based on piezoelectric substrates or micro-machined resonators, capable of detecting frequency changes resulting from the interaction of odorant molecules with the sensor. A coating applied to the sensor greatly increases the surface of interaction between the odorant molecules or biological agents and the sensor. An array of these sensors, each responding to the interaction of an odorant molecule species but in a different manner, results in different frequency shifts. An ultra sensitive frequency measurement device measures as small as part per billion shift in frequency.

Abstract: A hand-held chemical vapor detector for detecting biological substances in an indoor and outdoor setting is claimed. More specifically, the present invention relates to a plasma chromatograph (PC) vapor detector that is interfaced to a biological sample processing and transfer introduction system. The biological sample processing was accomplished by quartz tube thermal decomposition (TD), and the resultant vapor was transferred by gas chromatography (GC) to the PC detector. This system is comprised of a thermal decomposition module, gas chromatography module and a plasma chromatograph detector. These components are connected in a series fashion. The device is referred to as a Biological Classifier System (BCS). The BCS can be described as a hyphenated device where two analytical dimensions (the GC and PC), in series, allow the separation and isolation of individual components from the thermal decomposition of biological analytes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed which employs a pulse-controlled microdroplet fluid delivery system for precisely dispensing fragrances and other odor producing vapors. The pulse-controlled fluid delivery device is capable of ejecting microdroplets of fluid with a diameter less than 350 micrometers at a controlled ejection rate based upon inkjet printing technology. The pulse-controlled fluid delivery system includes mechanisms for vaporizing the fluids and delivery of the vapors to the nose, which is controlled by a programmable system controller capable of real time data-driven dispensing with a multi-fluid capability. Synthesis of custom fragrances is made possible by a multijet programmed control system which adjusts dispensing rates of components. Calibration of a prior art “electronic nose” is disclosed. A precise calibration gas is produced in real-time to counteract the effect of drifting.

Abstract: Circuits include at least one-odor sensitive organic transistor having a conduction channel whose conductivity changes in response to certain odors. The organic transistors are interconnected to increase their response to selected odor signals. The organic transistors may be interconnected to form a ring oscillator whose frequency of oscillation changes in response to an odor signal and in which the alternating signal applied to the gate electrodes of the organic transistors enhances their recovery and reduces their drift.

Abstract: The present invention is related to the sensing of analytes and in particular, to methods of determining, resolving, identifying, or quantitating such analytes once detected. This invention provides systems and methods for identifying analytes, comprising using an importance index to give greater weight to the responses from sensors that measure characteristics most useful for identification of analytes. In other aspects, the systems and methods are useful for increasing the stability of electronic nose systems by prolonging the predictive capability of the training set of known analytes. In still other aspects, the systems and methods are useful for detecting and responding to events correlated with the presence of an analyte.

Abstract: The present invention proposes an odor measuring apparatus capable of determining the similarity of the odor of an unknown sample with high objectivity and performing measurements with sensitivity similar to that of the human nose. According to a mode of the invention, an m-dimensional space is created from detection signals of m pieces of odor sensors, and a standard odor vector S1 representing the result of measurement of a standard odor and another vector Sx representing the result of measurement of an unknown sample are drawn in the space. Then, from the angle &thgr; between the two vectors, a degree of similarity is determined within the range from 0 to 100%, where the degree of similarity is corrected taking account of the difference in sensitivity between the odor sensor and the human nose.

Abstract: A biosensor comprising an enzyme immobilized membrane in intimate contact with the front end of an optical fiber is disclosed. The biosensor can be produced by coating and impregnating a dialysis membrane with an enzyme and a photocrosslinkable resin, and then crosslinking the photocrosslinkable resin to immobilize the enzyme in the dialysis membrane, thereby obtaining an enzyme immobilized membrane; and bringing the enzyme immobilized membrane into intimate contact with the front end of an optical fiber. Since the optical fiber and the enzyme (enzyme immobilized membrane) are used in combination, the biosensor is highly sensitive and selective and can serve as an excellent odor sensor.

Abstract: The artificial olfactory system is an ultra-sensitive and selective odor sensing system for the detection of odorant molecules down to the part per trillion level. The system includes multiple ultra sensitive frequency sensors, such as sensors based on piezoelectric substrates or micro-machined resonators, capable of detecting frequency changes resulting from the interaction of odorant molecules with the sensor. A coating applied to the sensor greatly increases the surface of interaction between the odorant molecules or biological agents and the sensor. An array of these sensors, each responding to the interaction of an odorant molecule species but in a different manner, results in different frequency shifts. An ultra sensitive frequency measurement device measures as small as part per billion shift in frequency.

Abstract: A portable olfactometer for sensing and measuring odors by sniffing has a barrel which carries selectively different D/T ratios of odorous air to a nose mask and has a selective set of inserts for providing different D/T ratios at the input to the barrel.

Abstract: A sensor and display means useful for sensing personal appearance. The invention addresses aroma and presenting the characteristics of the aroma to the user in particular detail. The appearance sensor and display can be integrated with another device associated with determining another aspect of appearance. For example, an aroma sensor and display integrated with a mirrored compact would provide a convenient and complete means of inspecting critical aspects of personal presentation which are visual appearance and personal aroma. The display might also include an appointment book or similar functionality associated with meeting people so that the user is conveniently reminded to check their appearance as they are reminded of the meeting. Improvements in the design of the sensor based on controlling the flow and path of the aroma stream for reducing the size and cost of the aroma sensor are included in the invention.

Abstract: Aroma chemicals emitted from an aroma-emitting source are obtained by an apparatus and process for obtaining the chemicals. The apparatus includes the use of one or more capillary tubes which have on their interior surfaces an absorbent material, a suction device for drawing the aroma chemicals through the capillary tubes, and a connecting tube which connects the capillary tubes and the suction device. A system for collecting and analyzing the aroma chemicals emitted from an aroma-emitting source is disclosed which has one or more capillary tubes, a suction device, a connecting tube, a thermal desorber which desorbs the aroma chemicals directly from the capillary tubes, a cryogenic focusing device, and a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry instrument.

Abstract: An electronic odor sensor includes first and second amplifiers, a biasing network, and a device connected to receive the output signals from the first and second amplifiers. The device is configured to correlate the received output signals to the presence or absence of an odor. The first and second amplifiers have respective first and second organic semiconductor layers and are configured to produce output signals responsive to the conductivities of their respective organic semiconductor layers. The conductivities of the organic semiconductor layers are responsive to voltages applied to associated ones of the amplifiers and to the presence of the odor. The biasing network applies the voltages to the amplifiers.

Abstract: A statistical metric, based on the magnitude and standard deviations along linear projections of clustered array response data, is utilized to facilitate an evaluation of the performance of detector arrays in various vapor classification tasks. This approach allows quantification of the ability of arrays of different types including carbon black-insulating polymer composite chemiresistor sensors, tin oxide sensors and bulk conducting organic polymer sensors to distinguish between analytes. The evaluation of questions such as the optimal number of detectors required for a specific task, whether improved performance is obtained by increasing the number of detectors in a detector array, and how to assess statistically the diversity of a collection of detectors in order to understand more fully which properties are underrepresented in a particular set of array elements, are addressed.

Abstract: A method of evaluating a person's olfactory perception by determining his ability to distinguish, differentiate, recognize, recall and remember distinct odors and scents when the person is presented with various odor-emitting samples. The odor-emitting samples are divided into several groups wherein the individual groups comprise two identical and one slightly different odor-emitting sample. Additionally, another group is presented to the person which comprises several individual odor-emitting samples which differ markedly from all of the other samples presented. The odor-emitting samples from the individual groups are presented to the person sequentially and the results are reported and then compared with other persons subject to the same tests. The person's olfactory perception acumen is thus recorded. This invention has great utility for many fast-growing and dynamic fields such as the food and beverage industry, academia and research facilities.

Abstract: The test includes a test panel placed between and rotatably secured to a cover and a rear panel. The cover has two windows located adjacent each other. Located adjacent the periphery of the test panel are twelve labels. Below each label is a set of choices. When the cover is placed over the test panel and secured thereto the first set of choices and label should be aligned with their respective windows. To use the test, the person scratches the label located above the first set of choices and then immediately sniffs the label. The person then chooses the item which most closely corresponds with what he/she smells and marks it by darkening the circle located adjacent his/her choice. Once all of the labels have been smelled and the choices marked, the test panel is rotated once more. The correctly marked choices will appear in openings formed on the cover.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for examining and/or recording medical disorders, physical conditions and/or physiological processes of a test person or patient. The inventive device comprises a sensor unit and a display unit for indicating a sensor signal that is generated and/or processed by the sensor unit, whereby the sensor unit can be placed in the vicinity of test persons or patients. This is particularly advantageous in the field of nursing care in order to be able to monitor the quantity and quality of treatment. To this end, an odor detection unit is provided for measuring odors. By virtue of the fact that examination is carried out in a non-contact manner, measurements can be continuously taken without causing harm to the test person.

Abstract: A portable olfactometer for sensing and measuring odors by sniffing has a barrel which carries selectively different D/T ratios of odorous air to a nose mask and has a selective set of inserts for providing different D/T ratios at the input to the barrel.

Abstract: Problem:

Abstract: Described is apparatus and a process for collecting for subsequent analysis a volatile composition such as a perfume composition located on the surface and/or in the interstices of a planar pliable porous substrate such as a towel section. A planar surface of the substrate which contains the volatile composition is initially juxtaposed adjacent a solid wall (e.g., glass frit) porous to a nonreactive carrier gas such as air, nitrogen or carbon dioxide, and fully and tightly covers the porous section of the wall. The carrier gas is passed through the porous section of the wall and then through the pliable porous substrate section which is adjacent to the wall; after which the carrier gas contains each component of the volatile composition. The composition-carrier gas mixture is then passed through a trapping substance (e.g., TENAX® a polyphenylene oxide) which entraps the molecules of each component of the volatile composition. The thus-collected volatile composition may be subsequently analyzed (e.g.

Abstract: A sample gas is introduced into a collecting pipe filled with a collecting agent to collect odor components therein, and a gas, such as nitrogen gas, is introduced into the collecting pipe to remove moisture and so on. Then, a heater is heated to raise a temperature of the collecting pipe so that a part of the odor components adsorbed by the collecting agent is separated therefrom, and then, a carrier gas is supplied to the collecting pipe to send the separated odor components to a sensor. After a predetermined time has passed, the heater is further heated to send the separated odor components to the sensor. The heater may be further increased. Thus, an output information of the gas sensor in one cycle of measurement can be increased.

Abstract: Described is apparatus and a process for collection for subsequent analysis a volatile composition such as a perfume composition located on the surface and/or in the interstices of a planar pliable porous substrate such as a towel section. A planar surface of the substrate which contains the volatile composition is initially juxtaposed adjacent a solid wall (e.g., glass frit) porous to a nonreactive carrier gas such as air, nitrogen or carbon dioxide, and fully and tightly covers the porous section of the wall. The carrier gas is passed through the porous section of the wall and then through the pliable porous substrate section which is adjacent to the wall; after which the carrier gas contains each component of the volatile composition. The composition-carrier gas mixture is then passed through a trapping substance (e.g., TENAX®) which entraps the molecules of each component of the volatile composition. The thus-collected volatile composition may subsequently be analyzed (e.g.

Abstract: A circuit includes at least one odor-sensitive organic field effect transistor (OFET) having a conduction channel whose conductivity changes in response to certain ambient odors and a feedback loop coupled between an output and an input of the circuit. The feedback loop generates a feedback signal which stabilizes the output signal of the circuit for time drift of the odor-sensitive organic transistor. In one embodiment, the OFET is an integral part of an amplifier and generates input signals to the amplifier in response to certain odors. A selectively enabled switch may be coupled between the output and the input of the amplifier circuit to provide negative feedback that tends to cancel the effect on the amplifier of time drift due to the OFET.

Abstract: A device for olfactory judgement of an odorous substance, particularly a perfume, substantially comprising a flat test object in a casing, preheated or heated electrically by a temperature control and measuring circuit to a given temperature and with prolonged heat storage means, on which an easily attachable and removable material is disposed and is covered with the odorous substance for judgement, the device also comprising a fan, wherein in the casing (2) the odorous substance can be applied to a sample strip (14) connected via a sample holder (12) to a heatable metal base carrier (7) movable in one direction (P), and the base carrier (7) is disposed at one end of an air flow duct (6) formed by a pipe (5), particularly a square pipe (5) open at both ends, a fan (18) being disposed at the other end and adapted, by means of an associated motor (17), to convey air from the end near the fan, via the sample strip (14) to the other end of the air flow duct (6), so that a starting air flow (34a), a received air f

Abstract: Odors are evaluated in relation to a target or priming stimulus by testing a subject by presenting the subject with one or more adors under different conditions, at least some being in the presence of one or more targets or priming stimuli; subsequently testing recognition of said one or more adors by the subject and monitoring implicit ador memory; and evaluating the results of implicit memory for ador/target combinations presented to the subject in the first stage of testing. Evaluation of the results of implicit memory for ador/target combinations presented to the subject provides a measure of the degree of association between the ador and target in a particular ador/target combination. These measures can be compared and used as a basis for ador selection.

Abstract: The test includes a test panel placed between and rotatably secured to a cover and a rear panel. The cover has two windows located adjacent each other. Located adjacent the periphery of the test panel are twelve labels. Below each label is a set of choices. When the cover is placed over the test panel and secured thereto the first set of choices and label should be aligned with their respective windows. To use the test, the person scratches the label located above the first set of choices and then immediately sniffs the label. The person then chooses the item which most closely corresponds with what he/she smells and marks it by darkening the circle located adjacent his/her choice. Once all of the labels have been smelled and the choices marked, the test panel is rotated once more. The correctly marked choices will appear in openings formed on the cover.

Abstract: A diagnostic mechanism for processing diagnostic data transferred from a host computer (e.g., a motor vehicle computer) to a portable computer (e.g., a personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular phone, etc.) An alert is provided based on a comparison in the portable computer of a threshold variable (e.g., generated from a desired threshold value input into the portable computer by the user) and a diagnostic variable (e.g., fuel remaining, service interval, etc.) generated from the diagnostic data. Preferably, the alert includes a calendar entry displayed on a PDA. The alert may further include an alarm at a time-of-day preceding an alarm clock setting of the PDA. Consequently, the user does not have to rely on his/her memory to arise earlier in the morning to fill up with gasoline, for example. Preferably, the PDA receives the diagnostic data in response to being placed in a cradle mounted in a vehicle passenger compartment.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to methods and devices for evaluating agriculture products, and more particularly, to assessing and monitoring the quality of food products using electronic noses. A quality control monitoring device (10) is provided having first sensor array (13) located in a first vessel (11) and a second sensor array (14) located in a second vessel (12). An analyzer (15) is set-up with a display (16).

Abstract: An electronic odor sensor includes first and second amplifiers, a biasing network, and a device connected to receive the output signals from the first and second amplifiers. The device is configured to correlate the received output signals to the presence or absence of an odor. The first and second amplifiers have respective first and second organic semiconductor layers and are configured to produce output signals responsive to the conductivities of their respective organic semiconductor layers. The conductivities of the organic semiconductor layers are responsive to voltages applied to associated ones of the amplifiers and to the presence of the odor. The biasing network applies the voltages to the amplifiers.

Abstract: A circuit includes at least one odor-sensitive organic field effect transistor (OFET) having a conduction channel whose conductivity changes in response to certain ambient odors and a feedback loop coupled between an output and an input of the circuit. The feedback loop generates a feedback signal which stabilizes the output signal of the circuit for time drift of the odor-sensitive organic transistor. In one embodiment, the OFET is an integral part of an amplifier and generates input signals to the amplifier in response to certain odors. A selectively enabled switch may be coupled between the output and the input of the amplifier circuit to provide negative feedback that tends to cancel the effect on the amplifier of time drift due to the OFET.

Abstract: In an odor measuring apparatus, a plurality of detection outputs with respect to a sample gas is obtained by a plurality of odor sensors having different response characteristics. In an odor fractionation processing section, based on the detection outputs, it is determined which one of a plurality of predetermined odor categories the odor of the sample gas belongs to. In case of calculating an odor index from the detection outputs, the same regression line can be utilized for the same odor category. An odor index calculating section utilizes regression coefficients determined in advance for each odor category, to thereby calculate the odor index. Accordingly, without using an organoleptic test by panels, the odor index can be obtained easily and accurately.

Abstract: An assembly for measuring the condition of fruit and vegetable is disclosed which comprises an expandable resilient bellows arrangement (10) having a passive sensor (22) mounted therein. In use, the bellows (10) can be expanded so as to bring the passive sensor (22) into contact with, or adjacent to, and item of fruit or vegetable whereby the sensor can react to a property of the fruit or vegetable and produces a signal related to that property. The bellows (10) can the be contracted away from the fruit or vegetable. The sensor (22) can detect the properties of, for example, surface gas detection, chlorophyll fluorescence, visible and Near Infra Red spectrometry and change transfer. An arrangement is also disclosed in which a plurality of bellows (10) are mounted on a rotatable mounting (510) whereby by rotation of the mounting (510), the bellows (10) can be brought sequentially into a position in contact with, or adjacent to, a respective fruit or vegetable.

Abstract: There is disclosed a gas sampling apparatus (10) adapted for use in a hand-held gas sensing device (12) having at least one gas sensor (14), the apparatus comprising: a gas inlet (16); a gas conductor (18) for conducting gas from the gas inlet to the sensor or sensors; a gas outlet (20), a gas conductor (22) for conducting gas from the sensor or sensors to the gas outlet; and a vacuum containment (24) enclosing an inner region having a pressure below atmospheric pressure and adapted for connection to the gas outlet so that a flow of gas is developed from the gas inlet to the vacuum containment.