Automatic air-sampling and pneumatic transport system with ball-filter hopper and integrated sampling manifold

US10254201B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventor

• Brian J. David · Falls Church, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 2, 2016
• Grant date: Apr 9, 2019
• Expiry date: Aug 9, 2037

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02A50/20
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention can sample particulates, aerosols, vapors, and/or biological components of ambient air utilizing spherical air-sampling filters. Components of the embodiments may include a hopper for holding spherical air-sampling filters, an air-sampling manifold configured to deliver an air-sampling filter from the hopper to a sampling location, and an air compressor to perform an air sampling operation and to transport a used air-sampling filter away from the sampling location. Operation of some embodiments may begin by rotating a slotted drum within the air-sampling manifold to deliver an air-sampling filter from the hopper to the sampling position. Operation may continue by using the air compressor to draw air from an ambient environment through the air-sampling filter. After sampling is complete, the air compressor may be utilized to pneumatically transport the used air-sampling filter away from the sampling position to a filter retrieval location via an output tube.