JP5091039B2 - Gas sensing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gas sensing device for performing gas analysis, and in particular, a gas sensing device that is excellent in detection sensitivity and response speed, can perform sensor regeneration processing easily, and can achieve downsizing of the device. About.

  Japan is aging and declining birthrate, and in the near future it is predicted that one in three people will be 65 years of age or older. Under such circumstances, the urgent need is to curb national medical expenses. For this reason, the enhancement of preventive medicine has attracted attention. This is because medical expenses can be reduced if the number of people who get sick is reduced by the improvement of preventive medicine.

  In order to enhance preventive medicine, a system that can manage health by utilizing the health condition measured by familiar devices is necessary. There are biological samples such as blood, urine, sweat, saliva and exhaled breath as an index for easily grasping an individual's health condition. Such a biological sample contains a plurality of substances (hereinafter, referred to as “markers”) whose numerical values change due to disease or signs thereof, such as blood glucose level in blood. Therefore, it is highly likely that an individual's health condition can be grasped by analyzing the amount of change in the marker, and health management and early detection of a disease can be performed by constantly analyzing the marker. Among the above-mentioned biological samples, exhaled breath has little physical damage because it includes a plurality of types of markers, can be sampled and analyzed quickly and easily, and the analysis target is gaseous and can be measured non-invasively. It can be said that it is the most suitable biological sample for analysis for reasons such as points.

  Non-Patent Document 1 shows the relationship between a disease and a marker during expiration. A part of this is quoted in Table 1. The oxidative stress shown in Table 1 is a disease that may occur when an excessive active oxygen group is generated in the body, damages lipids, proteins, enzymes, or DNA (Deoxyribo Nucleic Acid), aging, and It triggers diseases such as cancer and lifestyle-related diseases.

(Table 1)

  As an exhalation sensing device for measuring a marker in exhalation, a device using a sensor such as a nanostructure sensor made of carbon nanotubes or an oxide semiconductor gas sensor is known. In these exhalation sensing devices, exhalation analysis is performed by utilizing a change in resistance value caused by adsorption of the gas to be analyzed on the sensor surface. There is a problem that the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor itself are lowered due to the fact that the sensor surface is contaminated and the adsorption / desorption reaction rate of the gas to be analyzed with respect to the sensor is slow.

As a technique for solving such a problem, for example, Patent Document 1 includes oxygen having an action of activating a sensor and an oxidizing gas having an action of removing an odorous substance adsorbed on the sensor surface. A gas chromatograph apparatus configured to supply gas to a sensor unit is disclosed. Patent Document 2 discloses that gas detection is performed while irradiating the surface of a gas sensor sensitive body with a xenon lamp, thereby shortening the time for adsorption / desorption of the detection gas to the surface of the sensitive body and improving sensitivity. A photoexcited gas sensor is disclosed. Furthermore, Patent Document 3 discloses a cleaning of a gas sensor that removes moisture and other gases adsorbed on the surface of the gas sensor by applying an excessive voltage to the heating element of the gas sensor for a predetermined time to generate a large amount of heat within a short time. An apparatus is disclosed.
JP 2007-40725 A JP-A-8-94558 JP-A-8-254514 Wenting Tsao et al., “Breath Analysis: Potential for Clinical Diagnosis and Exposure Assessment”, Clinical Chemistry, 52: 5, p. 800-p. 811, 2006 (Wenqing Cao et al., “Breath Analysis: Potential for Clinical Diagnosis and Exposure Assessment”, Clinical Chemistry, vol. 52: 5, p.

  In the gas chromatograph apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, in order to generate ozone which is an oxidizing gas, a part of the oxygen flow path is irradiated with ultraviolet rays by ultraviolet irradiation means. Since the distance between the sensor and the sensor is large, the oxidizing gas may be attenuated or extinguished before reaching the sensor part, and the energy obtained by the ultraviolet irradiation cannot be effectively used. In the techniques disclosed in Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3, since the sensor is repeatedly exposed to a high temperature environment, the surface of the sensor may be deteriorated. In addition, it is necessary to provide a configuration for cooling the sensor. Furthermore, when a partition member, a permselective membrane, or the like is provided in the middle of the flow path of the exhaled air toward the sensor in these techniques, the analysis target gas is blocked by moisture and other components remaining on these surfaces. There is a risk of not reaching the sensor. Therefore, the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 have a problem that the effect of improving the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor cannot be sufficiently obtained, and the apparatus is further increased in size.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and the object thereof is excellent in detection sensitivity and response speed, can easily perform sensor regeneration processing, and can achieve downsizing of the apparatus. It is to provide a gas sensing device.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a gas sensing device capable of preventing deterioration of a sensor and capable of accurate gas analysis.

  A gas sensing device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a housing having a sensor for detecting a specific gas component in a gas therein, a gas introduction unit for introducing gas into the housing, and a housing. A gas exhaust unit for exhausting gas from inside the body, a desorbed gas introducing unit for allowing desorbed gas to flow into the housing to regenerate the sensor function, and exhausting the desorbed gas from inside the housing For controlling the operation of the desorbed gas discharge unit, the desorbed gas blowing regeneration unit for feeding the desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introducing unit toward the desorbed gas discharging unit, and the operation of the sensor and the desorbed gas blowing regeneration unit Control means.

  In this way, by sending the desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introduction part to the desorbed gas discharge part by the desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means, there is a possibility that the gas analysis adsorbed on the sensor by the wind force may be disturbed. Since gas components and poisonous substances are desorbed, the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained simply by feeding the desorbed gas by the desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means without exposing the sensor to a high temperature environment and light, the sensor regeneration process is simplified and the sensor is deteriorated. Can be prevented. Furthermore, since various components desorbed using the wind power generated by the desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means are discharged, various desorbed components can be discharged more quickly and the time required for the regeneration process can be shortened. In addition, it is not necessary to provide a configuration such as a fan for discharging the desorbed various components to the outside of the apparatus, and the apparatus can be further reduced in size.

  Preferably, the control means controls the operation of the desorbed gas blowing regeneration means based on the contamination state of the sensor. In this way, gas components and poisonous substances adsorbed on the sensor that may interfere with gas analysis are desorbed in accordance with the contamination state of the sensor, so that the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be further improved. Can be improved.

  More preferably, the desorption gas is a gas different from the specific gas component. Therefore, the specific gas component adsorbed on the sensor can be easily desorbed from the sensor, so that the function of the sensor can be regenerated more efficiently.

  More preferably, the desorbed gas discharge part is provided at a position different from the position where the gas discharge part is provided.

  Accordingly, the flow path through which the gas flows and the flow path through which the desorbed gas flows can be made different so that the gas as the analysis target gas and the various components desorbed from the sensor by the desorbed gas can be reduced. Mixing can be prevented, and a more accurate gas analysis becomes possible.

  More preferably, the desorbed gas blowing means feeds the desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introduction unit toward the desorbed gas discharge unit at an air volume of 0.01 L / min to 1000 L / min. As a result, gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the analysis of the gas adsorbed on the sensor are more easily desorbed, so that the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be improved more easily. Can do.

  More preferably, the desorbed gas blowing means is a fan, and the fan sends desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introduction section toward the desorbed gas discharge section at an air volume of 0.05 L / min to 10 L / min. As a result, gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the gas analysis adsorbed on the sensor are more efficiently desorbed, so that the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be further improved.

  More preferably, the sensor includes a sensing unit made of an aggregate of carbon nanotubes. Since the shape of the carbon nanotube is a nano-order fine structure, the sensing unit consisting of an aggregate of carbon nanotubes is excellent in responsiveness, has a very low detection limit, and can detect a small amount of a specific gas component on the order of ppb. It is. Therefore, gas analysis can be performed with higher accuracy.

  More preferably, the gas sensing device further includes a correction sensor for correcting a value detected by the sensor, and the control means corrects the value detected by the sensor based on the detection result of the correction sensor. Do. Thereby, gas analysis with higher reliability can be performed.

  More preferably, the gas sensing device further includes an enclosure member formed along the outer shape of the housing and including a radio wave absorber that absorbs electromagnetic waves around the device and generates heat, the enclosure member surrounding the housing. However, it is comprised so that attachment or detachment is possible so that it may be closely enclosed by the enclosure member from the outside.

  In this way, by enclosing the periphery of the housing with a surrounding member, the inside of the housing can be heated by the heat generated from the surrounding member, and thereby moisture and other components remaining on the inner wall of the housing, etc. In addition, gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the analysis of gas adsorbed on the sensor are more efficiently desorbed, so that the gas can easily reach the sensor, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be improved. This can be further improved. Moreover, since the above-mentioned effect can be obtained only by moving the enclosing member, the sensor regeneration process is further simplified. Furthermore, it is not necessary to provide a cooling means for moving the enclosure member away from the housing during cooling, and it is not necessary to provide a device for generating an electromagnetic wave, so that the size of the device can be further reduced. In addition, since electromagnetic waves existing around the device are effectively used, electromagnetic waves in a band that may interfere with the operation of the gas sensing device, electromagnetic waves in a band unnecessary for normal life, and electromagnetic waves in a band harmful to the human body. Therefore, it is possible to perform more accurate gas analysis and reduce unnecessary radio waves and harmful radio waves in the surrounding environment.

  More preferably, the housing, the gas introduction part, the gas discharge part, the desorption gas introduction part and the desorption gas discharge part are made of a material having heat conductivity.

  As a result, the inside of the housing, the gas inlet, the gas outlet, the desorbed gas inlet and the desorbed gas outlet is more easily heated by the heat generated from the enclosure member, and remains on the inner wall of the housing. Moisture, other components, etc., and gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the analysis of the gas adsorbed on the sensor are more easily desorbed. Therefore, the gas can reach the sensor more easily, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be further improved.

  More preferably, the gas sensing device further includes a thermoelectric conversion element that converts heat generated in the enclosing member into electric power, and a rechargeable battery that stores electric power converted by the thermoelectric conversion element. Thus, by further providing the thermoelectric conversion element and the rechargeable battery, the heat generated in the enclosure member can be used more efficiently.

  More preferably, the gas sensing device is further provided with an ultraviolet irradiation means for irradiating ultraviolet rays, and the control means controls the operation of the ultraviolet irradiation means based on the contamination state of the sensor.

  In this way, by irradiating ultraviolet rays by the ultraviolet irradiation means, moisture and other components remaining on the inner wall of the housing, etc., and gas components and poisoning that may interfere with the analysis of the gas adsorbed on the sensor Since the substance or the like is desorbed, the gas can easily reach the sensor, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained by simply energizing the ultraviolet irradiation means without exposing the sensor to a high-temperature environment, the sensor regeneration process is further simplified, and the sensor deterioration is further prevented. be able to. Furthermore, since the ultraviolet irradiation means that can be incorporated in the apparatus is used, the apparatus can be further reduced in size.

  More preferably, the gas sensing device further includes a reflection means for reflecting the ultraviolet ray irradiated from the ultraviolet irradiation means toward the sensor.

  As a result, it becomes possible to more efficiently irradiate the sensor with the ultraviolet rays generated from the ultraviolet irradiation means, so that the energy obtained by the ultraviolet irradiation can be used more efficiently. Therefore, it is possible to more efficiently desorb gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the analysis of the gas adsorbed on the sensor.

  More preferably, it further includes a selectively permeable membrane that is provided between the gas introducing portion and the sensor and preferentially passes a specific gas component in the gas introduced from the gas introducing portion, and the selectively permeable membrane transmits ultraviolet rays. Configured to be possible.

  Thus, by providing the permselective membrane, it is possible to improve the detection sensitivity and detection accuracy for the specific gas component of the sensor. In addition, since the selectively permeable membrane is configured to transmit ultraviolet rays, the installation place of the ultraviolet irradiation means can be reduced, and the energy obtained by ultraviolet irradiation can be used more efficiently.

  According to the present invention, the gas sensing device of the present invention includes a housing having a sensor for detecting a specific gas component in the gas inside, and a desorbed gas for regenerating the function of the sensor inside the housing. A desorption gas introduction part for inflow, a desorption gas discharge part for discharging the desorption gas from the inside of the housing, and a desorption gas that feeds the desorption gas from the desorption gas introduction part toward the desorption gas discharge part. It includes a separated gas blowing regeneration means and a control means for controlling the operation of the sensor and the desorbed gas blowing regeneration means.

  As described above, the desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means feeds the desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introduction section toward the desorbed gas discharge section, and thus the gas that may interfere with the gas analysis adsorbed on the sensor by the wind force. Since components, poisoning substances, and the like are desorbed, the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensor can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained simply by feeding the desorbed gas by the desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means without exposing the sensor to a high temperature environment and light, the sensor regeneration process is simplified and the sensor is deteriorated. Can be prevented. Furthermore, since various components desorbed using the wind power generated by the desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means are discharged, various desorbed components can be discharged more quickly and the time required for the regeneration process can be shortened. In addition, it is not necessary to provide a configuration such as a fan for discharging the desorbed various components to the outside of the apparatus, and the apparatus can be further reduced in size.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description and drawings, the same reference numerals and names are assigned to the same components. Their functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated each time.

[First Embodiment]
−Configuration−
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exhalation sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a horizontal sectional view showing an internal configuration of the exhalation sensing device 10. With reference to FIG. 1, the breath sensing device 10 is provided on a substantially rectangular parallelepiped casing 18 whose vertical length is shorter than the horizontal length, and on the right side surface of the casing 18, and the breath is contained inside the casing 18. An exhalation introduction unit 28 having an exhalation introduction port 30 for introducing gas, a display unit 20 provided on the upper surface of the housing 18, and a left side surface of the housing 18 for exhausting gas from the inside of the housing 18. A gas discharge part 22 having a gas discharge port 23, and exhalation discharge parts 24, which are respectively provided on the front and back surfaces of the housing 18, and have exhalation discharge ports 25 and 27 for discharging exhalation from the inside of the housing 18. 26, provided on the upper portion of the housing 18, and provided on the upper surface of the housing 18 for executing each process such as a display operation of the display unit 20, and starts breath analysis by the breath sensing device 10. Measurement start button for And 34, provided in the measurement start button 34 near and a playback button 36 for reproducing a later-described gas sensor 48, 50. The breath sensing device 10 is further provided on the right side surface of the casing 18 on the back side of the casing 18 with respect to the breath introduction section 28, and is desorbed for allowing desorption gas to be described later to flow into the casing 18. On the right side of the gas introduction section 302 and the casing 18, a desorption gas introduction section 304 is provided on the front side of the casing 18 with respect to the exhalation introduction section 28 and allows desorption gas to flow into the casing 18. A desorbed gas discharge unit 306 for discharging desorbed gas from the inside of the case 18, provided on the rear side of the case 18 with respect to the gas discharge unit 22 on the left side surface of the case 18, 18 includes a desorbed gas discharge unit 308 that is provided on the front side of the housing 18 with respect to the gas discharge unit 22 and discharges desorbed gas from the inside of the housing 18. A mouthpiece 39 is attached to the exhalation introduction port 30 located at the tip of the exhalation introduction unit 28. Since the mouthpiece 39 does not constitute the breath sensing device 10 according to the present embodiment, it may not be shown in the drawings after FIG.

  With reference to FIG. 2, the housing | casing 18 has the internal space which consists of plastics or an acrylic resin etc., for example, the container shape of the magnitude | size about 30 mm-300 mm in width, 30 mm-300 mm in depth, and 30 mm-150 mm in height. The inside of the breath introduction chamber 70 located at the center and the breath introduction chamber 70 is exhaled by partition members 52 and 54 which are plate-like members having openings 56 and 58 at the center, respectively. The first sensor chamber 72 located on the discharge unit 26 side and the second sensor chamber 74 located on the exhalation discharge unit 24 side with respect to the exhalation introduction chamber 70 are partitioned. That is, the partition member 52 is provided between the first sensor chamber 72 and the exhalation introduction chamber 70, and the partition member 54 is provided between the exhalation introduction chamber 70 and the second sensor chamber 74. The constituent materials of the partition members 52 and 54 are not particularly limited as long as they are generally used in the field, and various rubbers such as silicone rubber or various plastics such as acrylic resin can be used. Although it will not specifically limit if it is a grade which has moderate mechanical strength as thickness of the partition members 52 and 54, It is preferable that it is 100 micrometers-2000 micrometers.

A selectively permeable membrane 60 is provided on the surface of the partition member 52 on the first sensor chamber 72 side so as to cover the opening 56, and the surface of the partition member 54 on the second sensor chamber 74 side is covered with the opening 58. A permselective membrane 62 is provided. As the constituent material of the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, the detection sensitivity and the detection accuracy for the specific gas component of the gas sensor element 80 such as a material that preferentially transmits the specific gas component in the breath detected by the gas sensor element 80 described later. The material is appropriately selected from materials that can improve. For example, when the desired specific gas component is hydrogen (H ₂ ) gas, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are made of polysulfone / silicone rubber copolymer, polysulfone, polyimide, cellulose acetate, poly-4-methylpentene, or the like. It is preferably a membrane made of a polymer material or a material containing a metal that adsorbs hydrogen (H ₂ ) gas such as palladium, and among these, it has better hydrogen (H ₂ ) gas selective permeability. In particular, a film made of polyimide is particularly preferable. Further, when the desired specific gas component is organic vapor, it is preferably a membrane made of polyimide or silicone rubber, and among these, a membrane made of silicone rubber from the viewpoint of having better organic vapor selective permeability It is particularly preferred that Here, the organic vapor is generally a vapor of a volatile organic compound such as hydrocarbon, alcohol or ketone, and specifically, a vapor of methane, ethane, pentane or acetone. That is. The thickness of the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 is not particularly limited as long as it has an appropriate mechanical strength and does not inhibit the permeation of a desired specific gas component in exhaled breath, but is 5 μm to 50 μm. preferable. In the present embodiment, the permselective membrane 60 is a hydrophobic membrane (for example, NO-selective) capable of removing moisture and preferentially permeating nitric oxide (NO), which is a specific gas component in exhaled breath. membrane (trade name, manufactured by World Precision Instruments)), and a membrane made of silicone rubber capable of preferentially permeating acetone, which is a specific gas component in exhaled breath, is used as the permselective membrane 62.

  In the first sensor chamber 72, a gas sensor 48 for selectively measuring the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) in expired air has its sensor surface facing the opening 56 and the internal space of the first sensor chamber 72. It is supported and provided on the sensor substrate 40 so as to be exposed. Further, in the second sensor chamber 74, a gas sensor 50 for selectively measuring the concentration of acetone in the exhalation is exposed so that its sensor surface faces the opening 58 and is exposed to the internal space of the second sensor chamber 74. Are supported by the sensor substrate 42. Each of the gas sensors 48 and 50 includes a gas sensor element 80 including a sensing unit 82 composed of an aggregate of carbon nanostructures 88 that are surface-modified with a substance 94 that selectively adsorbs a specific gas component in exhalation, which will be described later. . The carbon nanostructure 88 is preferably made of a carbon-based conductive material selected from the group consisting of carbon nanotubes (hereinafter referred to as “CNT (Carbon Nano Tube)”), carbon nanofibers, carbon nanohorns, and fullerenes, Further, it is preferably made of CNT. Since the carbon nanostructure 88 selected from such a group has a nano-order fine structure, the sensing unit 82 composed of the aggregate of the carbon nanostructures 88 is excellent in responsiveness and has a lower detection limit. It is very low, and it is possible to detect a small amount of a specific gas component on the order of ppb. Therefore, exhalation analysis can be performed with higher accuracy. Among these, the carbon nanostructure 88 made of CNT is particularly likely to exhibit the above-described effects.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the gas sensor element 80, and FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating the surface modification in the sensing unit 82. Referring to FIG. 3, the gas sensor element 80 includes a sensing unit 82 composed of an assembly of carbon nanostructures 88 whose surface is modified by a substance 94 that selectively adsorbs a specific gas component in exhaled air, and a sensing unit 82. It includes an electrode 84 and an electrode 86 disposed at both ends. Referring to FIG. 4, the sensing unit 82 includes, for example, a carbon nanostructure 88 made of CNT, and a substance 94 that is fixed to the surface of the carbon nanostructure 88 and selectively adsorbs a specific gas component in exhaled breath. Including. Here, although the molecular structure of metal phthalocyanine that selectively adsorbs nitric oxide (NO) is illustrated as the substance 94, it is not particularly limited thereto. In the present embodiment, as the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 48, a gas sensor that is surface-modified with cobalt phthalocyanine (hereinafter referred to as “CoPc”) that selectively adsorbs nitric oxide (NO) and moisture is used. As the 50 sensing parts 82, those whose surface is modified with manganese phthalocyanine (hereinafter referred to as "MnPc") that selectively adsorbs acetone is used. In the present embodiment, since moisture is removed by the selectively permeable membrane 60, the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 48 can selectively detect only nitric oxide (NO).

  When any chemical substance adheres to the surface of the carbon nanostructure 88, electron transfer occurs and an electromotive force is generated. In other words, a potential difference or a change in electrical resistance occurs between two points of the carbon nanostructure 88. If this change in electrical resistance is detected, chemical substances can be detected (sensing). Further, when the surface of the carbon nanostructure 88 is modified with the substance 94 that selectively adsorbs a specific gas component, the above-described change in electrical resistance is linked to the behavior of the substance 94 modified on the surface. A gas sensor element 80 that can detect only a specific gas component can be obtained.

  For example, when the surface of the carbon nanostructure 88 is modified with MnPc, acetone in the breath is adsorbed on the MnPc. As a result, the electrical resistance of the carbon nanostructure 88 changes as described above. The amount of change varies depending on the amount of acetone adsorbed on the carbon nanostructure 88 surface. Therefore, by measuring a change in resistance value when a current is passed through the sensing unit 82, the concentration of acetone in exhaled breath can be detected.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a measurement circuit 100 for measuring a resistance change of the gas sensor element 80 provided in both of the gas sensors 48 and 50. Referring to FIG. 5, measurement circuit 100 includes constant voltage source 130, gas sensor element 80 and load resistor 134 connected in series between both terminals of constant voltage source 130, and between gas sensor element 80 and load resistor 134. And an amplifier 136 having an input connected to the contact and amplifying a change in potential of the contact. At the time of detecting a specific gas component in exhalation, that is, at the time of exhalation analysis, an A / D (Analog-to-Digital) converter of the control unit 32 described later is connected to the other terminal of the amplifier 136 in order to measure this potential change. (Not shown) is connected. The electrode 84 of the gas sensor element 80 shown in FIG. 3 is connected to the plus terminal of the constant voltage source 130, and the electrode 86 is connected to the load resistor 134 and the amplifier 136, respectively. The resistance value of the load resistor 134 is known. By measuring the potential change at the contact point between the gas sensor element 80 and the load resistor 134, it is possible to know the change in the electrical resistance of the gas sensor element 80, thereby knowing the concentration of the specific gas component adsorbed on the gas sensor element 80. Can do.

  The exhalation introduction unit 28 communicates the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70 and the outside of the housing 18. The exhalation introduction part 28 forms a flow path indicated by an arrow A for distributing exhalation introduced from the exhalation introduction port 30 located at the tip part into the exhalation introduction chamber 70. The breath introduction part 28 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, but is preferably a pipe-like member having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 50 mm to 150 mm, for example.

  The display unit 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 32, and displays the measured concentration of the specific gas component in the exhaled breath according to a display control signal input from the control unit 32 by, for example, a line graph display. It is a display device. The display unit 20 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, and a liquid crystal display device or the like can be used.

  The gas discharge unit 22 communicates the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70 and the outside of the casing 18, the exhalation discharge unit 24 communicates the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 and the outside of the casing 18, and the exhalation discharge unit 26 The inside of the one sensor chamber 72 communicates with the outside of the housing 18. The gas discharge part 22 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field. For example, a pipe-shaped member having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 50 mm can be used. It is preferable that the same member is used for the exhalation discharge units 24 and 26 so that the inside of the first sensor chamber 72 and the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 are in a similar state. The exhalation discharge units 24 and 26 are not particularly limited as long as they are generally used in the field, and for example, pipe-shaped members having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 50 mm can be used.

  The gas discharge unit 22 is provided with an on-off valve 76 that controls the flow rate of the gas discharged from the inside of the housing 18. The on-off valve 76 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, and a valve body made of a thin plate such as plastic can be used. The on-off valve 76 prevents the gas from flowing into the housing 18 by pressing the valve body against the valve seat by a pressing force such as a spring or its own weight. And when the pressure exceeding the above-mentioned pressing force is applied by the internal pressure of the exhalation introduction chamber 70, exhalation is allowed to flow out from the inside of the housing 18. In this manner, the on-off valve 76 allows exhalation to flow out from the inside of the casing 18 and prevents gas from flowing into the casing 18. The on-off valve 76 controls internal pressure due to exhalation inside the exhalation introduction chamber 70, thereby preventing excessive exhalation from flowing into the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74. The internal pressure in the exhalation introduction chamber 70 is preferably controlled to be 1.1 to 1.2 times the atmospheric pressure.

  The control unit 32 includes a processing circuit realized by a microcomputer or a microprocessor having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a storage unit including a ROM (Read-Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory), an A / D A converter and a main power source (all of which are not shown) are included. The storage unit stores measurement results from the gas sensors 48 and 50 and various programs for executing various processes such as display operations of the display unit 20. The A / D converter converts the potential change output as an analog signal by the gas sensors 48 and 50 into a digital signal, and outputs the converted digital signal to the processing circuit. The main power supply supplies power not only to the control circuit but also to each component of the breath sensing device 10. The processing circuit reads various data such as measurement results or various programs stored in the storage unit, makes various determinations, and transmits a control signal to each internal component of the breath sensing device 10 corresponding to the determination results. Then, operation control of each component is performed. For example, the processing circuit executes a predetermined program, calculates the concentration of the specific gas component in the expiration based on the digital signal input from the A / D converter, and causes the display unit 20 to display the calculation result. Therefore, a display control signal is output to the display unit 20.

  The measurement start button 34 and the reproduction button 36 are operated by being pressed by a user such as a subject, whereby each instruction to the control unit 32, that is, an expiration analysis start instruction, or reproduction of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc. A signal corresponding to the processing start instruction is output.

  The desorbed gas introduction unit 302 and the desorbed gas discharge unit 306 communicate the inside of the first sensor chamber 72 and the outside of the housing 18. The desorption gas introduction unit 304 and the desorption gas discharge unit 308 communicate the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 and the outside of the housing 18. It is preferable that the same member is used for the desorbed gas introducing portions 302 and 304 so that the inside of the first sensor chamber 72 and the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 are in a similar state. In the gas discharge units 306 and 308, the same member is preferably used so that the inside of the first sensor chamber 72 and the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 are in a similar state. The desorbed gas introducing portions 302 and 304 are not particularly limited as long as they are generally used in the field, and for example, pipe-shaped members having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 50 mm can be used. The desorbed gas discharge portions 306 and 308 are not particularly limited as long as they are generally used in the field, and for example, pipe-shaped members having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 50 mm can be used.

  In the inside of the desorbed gas introduction part 302, in the vicinity of the end opposite to the side communicating with the first sensor chamber 72, the blower 310 has a direction in which the blowing direction is directed toward the inside of the first sensor chamber 72. It is attached so that it becomes. Similarly, a blower 312 is provided in the vicinity of the end opposite to the side communicating with the second sensor chamber 74 in the desorbed gas introduction unit 304, and the blowing direction is directed to the inside of the second sensor chamber 74. It is mounted so that it is in the direction to go. It is preferable that the same thing is used for the air blowers 310 and 312 so that the state in the 1st sensor chamber 72 and the 2nd sensor chamber 74 may become a similar state. Although it will not specifically limit if it is generally used in the said field | area as the air blowers 310 and 312, A sirocco fan or a blower etc. can be used. As a preferable strength of the air blown by the blowers 310 and 312, the air volume is preferably 0.01 L / min to 1000 L / min. As a result, various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 and various components adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are more easily desorbed. Exhalation can reach the gas sensors 48 and 50 more easily, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensors can be further improved. Moreover, when using fans, such as a sirocco fan, as the air blowers 310 and 312, it is especially preferable that the air volume is 0.05L / min-10L / min. As a result, the various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 and the various components adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are more efficiently desorbed. Can reach the gas sensors 48 and 50 more efficiently, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the sensors can be further improved. The blowers 310 and 312 are electrically connected to the control unit 32, and the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor 2 are connected from the outside of the housing 18 according to a blow control signal input from the control unit 32 based on an instruction from the regeneration button 36. Air is sent toward the sensor chamber 74. The air sent by the blowers 310 and 312 is a gas to be analyzed in the breath analysis, that is, a gas different from the specific gas component in the breath selectively detected by the gas sensors 48 and 50. As will be described later, the partition member 52 and 54 and various components remaining on the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 and various components adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are desorbed to regenerate the functions of the gas sensors 48 and 50. Acts as a gas. As described above, since the air functioning as the desorption gas is a gas different from the specific gas component in the exhaled breath that is selectively detected by the gas sensors 48 and 50, the specific gas component adsorbed on the gas sensors 48 and 50 is reduced. Since it becomes easy to detach | desorb from the gas sensors 48 and 50, the function of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be reproduced | regenerated more efficiently.

-Operation-
With reference to FIGS. 1-5, the expiration | expired_air sensing apparatus 10 which concerns on this Embodiment operate | moves as follows. Usually, a user such as a subject first performs regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc., and then performs breath analysis.

  That is, first, when the regeneration button 36 is operated by a subject or the like, the control unit 32 outputs a ventilation control signal to the fans 310 and 312 in accordance with the regeneration process start instruction signal input from the regeneration button 36. The blowers 310 and 312 send air from the outside of the housing 18 toward the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74 in accordance with the blow control signal. The air sent into the first sensor chamber 72 is desorbed by blowing away the moisture and other gas components remaining in the partition member 52 and the selectively permeable membrane 60 and the gas components adsorbed on the gas sensor 48 by the wind force. At the same time, the desorbed various components are transported toward the desorbed gas discharge unit 306 and discharged from the desorbed gas discharge unit 306 to the outside of the apparatus. Similarly, the air sent into the second sensor chamber 74 blows away the moisture and other gas components remaining in the partition member 54 and the selectively permeable membrane 62 and the gas components adsorbed on the gas sensor 50 by the wind force. In addition to desorption, the desorbed various components are transported toward the desorption gas discharge unit 308 and discharged from the desorption gas discharge unit 308 to the outside of the apparatus.

  Next, when the measurement start button 34 is operated by a subject or the like, the constant voltage source 130 applies a constant voltage across both ends of the gas sensor element 80 and the load resistor 134 connected in series. Then, the mouthpiece 39 is installed in the exhalation introduction port 30 by the subject, and exhalation is introduced from the installed mouthpiece 39.

  The exhaled breath introduced from the mouthpiece 39 flows through the exhalation introducing section 28 and is introduced into the exhalation introducing chamber 70, and a part of the exhaled breath passes through the openings 56 and 58 and the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74. Flow into. At this time, moisture is removed due to the presence of the selectively permeable membrane 60, and nitrogen monoxide (NO) is preferentially introduced into the first sensor chamber 72 among the specific gas components in the exhaled breath. Similarly, due to the presence of the selectively permeable membrane 62, acetone is preferentially introduced into the second sensor chamber 74 among the specific gas components in the exhaled breath.

  Nitric oxide (NO) in the exhaled breath preferentially introduced into the first sensor chamber 72 is selectively adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 48, and as a result, the electricity between the electrodes 84 and 86 of the gas sensor element 80. Resistance increases. The change is output to the A / D converter of the control unit 32 as a change in the output voltage of the amplifier 136. Similarly, the exhaled acetone introduced preferentially into the second sensor chamber 74 is selectively adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 50, and as a result, the electrical resistance between the electrodes 84 and 86 of the gas sensor element 80 is reduced. To increase. The change is output to the A / D converter of the control unit 32 as a change in the output voltage of the amplifier 136. The A / D converter converts the input potential change into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the processing circuit of the control unit 32, and the processing circuit converts the nitric oxide ( NO) and acetone concentrations are calculated, and a display control signal corresponding to the calculation result is output to the display unit 20 to display the concentrations of nitric oxide (NO) and acetone in the exhaled breath on the display unit 20. Thus, by knowing the change in output voltage, the concentration of the specific gas component in the exhaled breath can be confirmed.

  The exhaled breath in which nitric oxide (NO) is adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 48 is discharged outside the exhalation sensing device 10 from the exhalation discharge port 27 of the exhalation discharge unit 26. Similarly, exhaled breath in which acetone has been adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 50 is discharged out of the exhalation sensing device 10 through the exhalation discharge port 25 of the exhalation discharging unit 24, and the exhalation analysis ends.

  As described above, the breath sensing device 10 includes the desorbed gas introduction unit 302 for flowing air for regenerating the function of the gas sensor 48 into the first sensor chamber 72 between the selectively permeable membrane 60 and the gas sensor 48. A desorbed gas discharge unit 306 for discharging air from the inside of the first sensor chamber 72; a blower 310 for sending air from the desorbed gas introduction unit 302 toward the desorbed gas discharge unit 306; and the selectively permeable membrane 62 In order to exhaust the air from the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 and the desorbed gas introducing portion 304 for allowing the air for regenerating the function of the gas sensor 50 to flow into the second sensor chamber 74 between the gas sensor 50 and the gas sensor 50. And a blower 312 that sends air from the desorbed gas introduction unit 304 toward the desorbed gas discharge unit 308. And the control part 32 controls operation | movement of the air blowers 310 and 312 based on the contamination state of the gas sensors 48 and 50. FIG.

  Therefore, by sending air from the desorbed gas introducing unit 302 to the desorbed gas discharging unit 306 and from the desorbed gas introducing unit 304 toward the desorbed gas discharging unit 308 by the blowers 310 and 312, Since various components remaining on the members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 and various components adsorbed to the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are desorbed, exhaled air can easily reach the gas sensors 48 and 50. In addition, the detection sensitivity and response speed of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained without exposing the gas sensors 48 and 50 to high temperature environment and light by simply sending air by the blowers 310 and 312, the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is simplified, and the gas sensor The deterioration of 48 and 50 can be prevented. Furthermore, since various components desorbed by effectively using the wind power generated by the blowers 310 and 312 are discharged, various components desorbed as compared with the case of using a gas with weak wind force that has passed through the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62. This reduces the time required for the regeneration process and eliminates the need for a fan or the like for discharging the desorbed components to the outside of the device, further reducing the size of the device. Can be achieved.

  Further, the desorbed gas discharge units 306 and 308 are provided at positions different from the positions where the exhalation discharge units 24 and 26 are provided. Thus, a flow path through which exhaled gas flows during breath analysis, and a flow path through which various components desorbed from the partition members 52, 54, the selectively permeable membranes 60, 62, and the gas sensors 48, 50 by air as desorbed gas flow. Can be made different from each other, and it is possible to prevent the exhaled gas as the gas to be analyzed from mixing with the various components that have been desorbed, thereby enabling more accurate exhalation analysis.

[Modification]
−Configuration−
FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a modified example of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a horizontal cross-sectional view illustrating the internal configuration of the modified breath sensing device 10. . The modification of the breath sensing device 10 differs from the breath sensing device 10 in that the detection value of the gas sensor 50 is corrected. Therefore, the configuration is the same as that of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment, except for the configuration changed in accordance with the correction. Therefore, the same reference numerals and names are given to components having the same or similar functions as the breath sensing device 10, and detailed description thereof will not be repeated, and only different points will be described. A mouthpiece 39 is attached to an exhalation introduction port 415 located at the distal end portion of an exhalation introduction path 414 described later. The mouthpiece 39 does not constitute a modified example of the breath sensing device 10 and is not shown in FIGS.

  In the modified example of the exhalation sensing device 10, the exhalation introduction chamber 70 in the exhalation sensing device 10 is divided by a partition member 401 into a gas introduction chamber 70 a located on the exhalation discharge unit 26 side and an exhalation introduction chamber located on the exhalation discharge unit 24 side. 70b. The constituent material of the partition member 401 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, and various rubbers such as silicone rubber or various plastics such as acrylic resin can be used. Although it will not specifically limit if it is a grade which has moderate mechanical strength as a thickness of the partition member 401, It is preferable that it is 100 micrometers-2000 micrometers.

  In this modification, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are the same, remove water, and are hydrophobic so that they can preferentially permeate nitric oxide (NO), which is a specific gas component in exhaled breath. (For example, NO-selective membrane (trade name, manufactured by World Precision Instruments)).

  The same gas sensor 50 as that used for the gas sensor 48 is used. In this modification, as the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50, a sensor whose surface is modified with CoPc that selectively adsorbs nitric oxide (NO) and moisture is used. In this modification, moisture is removed by the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, so that the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can selectively detect only nitric oxide (NO). The control unit 32 corrects the detection value of the gas sensor 50 using the detection result of the gas sensor 48 as a reference signal (reference signal).

  In the modified example of the breath sensing device 10, the gas sensor 50 selectively detects nitrogen monoxide (NO) in the mixed gas containing the breath and the desorbed gas. Therefore, in order to perform a more reliable breath analysis, it is necessary to eliminate the influence of nitric oxide (NO) contained in the desorbed gas. In the modified example of the breath sensing device 10, nitrogen monoxide (NO) in the desorbed gas is selectively detected by the gas sensor 48, and the detection value of the gas sensor 50 is corrected based on the detection result. The correction method for the detection value of the gas sensor 50 is not particularly limited as long as it is a method generally used in the field, but there is a method of subtracting the detection value of the gas sensor 48 from the detection value of the gas sensor 50.

  As described above, in the modified example of the breath sensing device 10, the control unit 32 performs the monoxide oxidation in the mixed gas based on the detection result of the gas sensor 48 that selectively detects nitrogen monoxide (NO) in the desorption gas. Since the detection value of the gas sensor 50 that selectively detects nitrogen (NO) is corrected, the influence of nitrogen monoxide (NO) in the desorbed gas can be eliminated, and a more reliable breath analysis is performed. be able to.

  On the left side surface of the casing 18, there are a gas discharge part 432 having a gas discharge port 431 for discharging gas from the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70a, and a gas discharge port 433 for discharging gas from the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70b. The gas exhaust unit 434 has a gas discharge unit 434 arranged in a horizontal direction, and the desorbed gas from the inside of the first sensor chamber 72 is provided on the left side surface of the housing 18 on the back side of the housing 18 with respect to the gas exhaust unit 432. A desorbed gas discharge unit 306 for discharging is provided, and a desorbed gas discharge unit for discharging desorbed gas from the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 on the front side of the housing 18 with respect to the gas discharge unit 434. 308 is provided. The gas discharge unit 432 communicates the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70a and the outside of the housing 18, and the gas discharge unit 434 communicates the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70b and the outside of the housing 18. It is preferable that the same member is used for the gas discharge portions 432 and 434 so that the gas introduction chamber 70a and the breath introduction chamber 70b are in a similar state. The gas discharge parts 432 and 434 are not particularly limited as long as they are generally used in the field. For example, a pipe-shaped member having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 50 mm can be used.

  The gas discharge part 432 is provided with an on-off valve 436 for controlling the flow rate of the gas discharged from the gas introduction chamber 70a, and the gas discharge part 434 controls the flow rate of the gas discharged from the breath introduction chamber 70b. An on-off valve 438 is provided. The on-off valves 436 and 438 are the same so that the internal pressures in the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b are in a similar state. As the on-off valves 436 and 438, the same on-off valve 76 used in the breath sensing device 10 can be used.

  The on-off valves 436 and 438 prevent the gas from flowing into the housing 18 by pressing the valve body against the valve seat by a pressing force such as a spring or its own weight. And when the pressure exceeding the above-mentioned pressing force is applied by the internal pressure inside the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b, the gas is allowed to flow out from the inside of the housing 18. In this way, the on-off valves 436 and 438 allow the gas to flow out from the inside of the housing 18 and prevent the gas from flowing into the housing 18. The on-off valves 436 and 438 prevent internal exhalation from flowing into the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74 by controlling the internal pressure of the gas inside the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b. By making the flow rate of the gas flowing into the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74 the same, the detection value of the gas sensor 50 can be corrected more accurately. The internal pressures in the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b are preferably controlled to be 1.1 to 1.2 times the atmospheric pressure.

  On the right side surface of the housing 18, a desorption gas introduction unit 402 for allowing desorption gas to flow into the first sensor chamber 72 and the gas introduction chamber 70 a is provided on the back side of the housing 18. On the right side of the casing 18, on the front side of the casing 18, an exhalation introduction unit 404 for allowing desorption gas or desorption gas and exhalation to flow into the second sensor chamber 74 and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b is removed. It is provided so as to be aligned with the separated gas introduction part 402 in the horizontal direction. The desorbed gas introducing unit 402 communicates the inside of the first sensor chamber 72 and the inside of the gas introducing chamber 70a with the outside of the device, and the exhalation introducing unit 404 has the inside of the second sensor chamber 74 and the inside of the exhalation introducing chamber 70b and the outside of the device. Communicate.

  The desorption gas introduction section 402 includes a desorption gas introduction path 406 that forms a flow path indicated by an arrow A for flowing air fed from a blower 428 provided at one end into the gas introduction chamber 70a, and It consists of a pipe-shaped member including a desorbed gas introduction path 408 that forms a flow path indicated by an arrow B for circulating the air fed from the blower 428 into the first sensor chamber 72. That is, the desorbed gas introduction path 406 is a pipe-shaped member formed so that the blower 428 is provided at one end, and the other end opposite to the side where the blower 428 is provided communicates with the gas introduction chamber 70a. The desorption gas introduction path 408 is branched from an intermediate portion of the desorption gas introduction path 406 so that one end portion thereof communicates with the desorption gas introduction path 406 and communicated with the desorption gas introduction path 406. Consists of a pipe-like member formed so that the other end on the opposite side communicates with the first sensor chamber 72. The desorption gas introduction section 402 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, but a desorption gas introduction path 406 having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 100 mm, and an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm. A pipe-like member having a desorption gas introduction path 408 having a length of 10 mm to 50 mm is preferable.

  A three-way valve 412 is provided at a portion where the desorbed gas introduction path 406 and the desorbed gas introduction path 408 branch (hereinafter referred to as “branched portion”). The three-way valve 412 is electrically connected to the control unit 32 and is switched from the control unit 32 based on the breath analysis start instruction signal from the measurement start button 34 or the regeneration process start instruction signal from the regeneration button 36. In accordance with the control signal, the flow path of the desorbed gas flowing through the desorbed gas introducing unit 402 is switched as follows. That is, at the time of breath analysis, the desorption gas flow path becomes the desorption gas introduction path 406 so that the desorption gas flows through the flow path indicated by the arrow A and is introduced into the gas introduction chamber 70a. In the regeneration process of the gas sensor 48, the desorbed gas flows through the flow paths indicated by the arrows A and B and flows into the gas introduction chamber 70a and the first sensor chamber 72. The desorption gas introduction path 406 and the desorption gas introduction path 408 are configured to be the desorption gas introduction path 408. The three-way valve 412 is not particularly limited as long as it is a movable type generally used in the field, and an electromagnetic three-way valve or the like can be used.

  The exhalation introduction unit 404 includes an exhalation introduction path 414 that forms a flow path indicated by an arrow C for introducing exhalation from an exhalation introduction port 415 located at the tip, and air fed from a blower 430 provided at one end, Alternatively, from the blower 430 and the mixed gas introduction path 416 that forms a flow path indicated by an arrow D for flowing the mixed gas containing the air introduced from the air and the expiration introduction path 414 into the expiration introduction chamber 70b. It consists of a pipe-like member including a desorbed gas introduction path 418 that forms a flow path indicated by an arrow E for circulating the air fed into the second sensor chamber 74. That is, the mixed gas introduction path 416 is formed of a pipe-like member formed so that the blower 430 is provided at one end and the other end opposite to the side where the blower 430 is provided communicates with the exhalation introduction chamber 70b. The desorbed gas introduction path 418 is branched from an intermediate portion of the mixed gas introduction path 416 so that one end thereof communicates with the mixed gas introduction path 416 and is opposite to the side communicating with the mixed gas introduction path 416. The other end portion is made of a pipe-shaped member formed so as to communicate with the second sensor chamber 74. The exhalation introduction path 414 is a pipe formed by branching from an intermediate portion of the mixed gas introduction path 416 so that the other end opposite to the side where the exhalation introduction port 415 is provided communicates with the mixed gas introduction path 416. It consists of a member. The breath introduction section 404 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, but the mixed gas introduction path 416 having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 100 mm, an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm, and a length. A pipe-shaped member having a desorption gas introduction path 418 of 10 mm to 50 mm and an exhalation introduction path 414 having an inner diameter of 10 mm to 30 mm and a length of 10 mm to 50 mm is preferable. Further, the mixed gas introduction path 416 and the desorbed gas introduction path 418 have similar states in the first sensor chamber 72 and the gas introduction chamber 70a, and in the second sensor chamber 74 and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b. It is preferable to be made of the same member as the desorbed gas introduction paths 406 and 408 so as to be in a state.

  A three-way valve 420 is provided at a portion where the mixed gas introduction passage 416 and the desorption gas introduction passage 418 are branched (hereinafter referred to as “branch portion”). The three-way valve 420 is electrically connected to the control unit 32 and is switched from the control unit 32 based on the breath analysis start instruction signal from the measurement start button 34 or the regeneration process start instruction signal from the regeneration button 36. In accordance with the control signal, the flow path of the gas flowing through the exhalation introduction unit 404 is switched as follows. That is, at the time of breath analysis, the gas flow path is mixed gas introduction path 416 so that the mixed gas of desorbed gas and expiration flows through the flow path indicated by arrow D and is introduced into the breath introduction chamber 70b. In the regeneration process of the gas sensor 50, the desorbed gas flows through the flow paths indicated by the arrows D and E and flows into the exhalation introduction chamber 70b and the second sensor chamber 74. The gas flow paths are made to be the mixed gas introduction path 416 and the desorption gas introduction path 418. As the three-way valve 420, the same one as the three-way valve 412 can be used.

  An open / close valve 422 is provided near the portion communicating with the mixed gas introduction path 416 inside the exhalation introduction path 414. The on-off valve 422 is electrically connected to the control unit 32 and is opened / closed input from the control unit 32 based on the breath analysis start instruction signal from the measurement start button 34 or the regeneration process start instruction signal from the regeneration button 36. According to the control signal, the open / close state is controlled as follows. That is, at the time of the breath analysis, the on-off valve 422 is opened so that the breath flows through the flow path indicated by the arrow C and is introduced into the mixed gas introduction path 416. The on-off valve 422 is closed so as not to be introduced into the mixed gas introduction path 416. The on-off valve 422 is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, and an electromagnetic on-off valve or the like can be used.

  The above-described blower 428 is mounted such that the blowing direction is a direction toward the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70a, and the blower 430 is mounted such that the blowing direction is a direction toward the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70b. . It is preferable that the same air blowers 428 and 430 are used so that the gas introduction chamber 70a and the breath introduction chamber 70b are in a similar state. The blowers 428 and 430 are electrically connected to the control unit 32, and in accordance with a blow control signal input from the control unit 32 based on an instruction from the regeneration button 36, the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction from the outside of the housing 18. Air is sent in a direction toward the inside of the chamber 70b. As the blowers 428 and 430, the same blowers 310 and 312 used in the breath sensing device 10 can be used.

-Operation-
With reference to FIG.6 and FIG.7, the modification of the breath sensing apparatus 10 operate | moves as follows. Usually, a user such as a subject first performs regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc., and then performs breath analysis.

  That is, first, when the playback button 36 is operated by a subject or the like, the control unit 32 outputs a switching control signal to the three-way valves 412 and 420 according to the playback processing start instruction signal input from the playback button 36. Then, an open / close control signal is output to the open / close valve 422. The three-way valve 412 causes the desorption gas flow path in the desorption gas introduction unit 402 to be the desorption gas introduction path 406 and the desorption gas introduction path 408 according to the switching control signal, and the three-way valve 420 displays the switching control signal. Accordingly, the gas flow path in the exhalation introduction unit 404 is made to be the mixed gas introduction path 416 and the desorption gas introduction path 418. The open / close valve 422 closes the open / close valve 422 in accordance with the open / close control signal.

  When the above-described operations in the three-way valves 412 and 420 and the on-off valve 422 are finished, the control unit 32 outputs a blow control signal to the blowers 428 and 430. The blowers 428 and 430 send air in the direction from the outside of the apparatus to the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70a and the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70b in accordance with the ventilation control signal. The air sent in the direction toward the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70 a by the blower 428 flows through the desorption gas introduction path 406 and the desorption gas introduction path 408 and is sent into the gas introduction chamber 70 a and the first sensor chamber 72. In addition, the moisture and other gas components remaining in the partition member 52 and the selective permeable membrane 60 and the gas components adsorbed on the gas sensor 48 are desorbed by blowing off with the wind force, and the desorbed various components are desorbed. It is conveyed toward the discharge unit 306 and discharged from the desorbed gas discharge unit 306 to the outside of the apparatus. Similarly, the air sent in the direction toward the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70b by the blower 430 flows through the mixed gas introduction path 416 and the desorption gas introduction path 418 to enter the exhalation introduction chamber 70b and the second sensor chamber 74. Moisture and other gas components remaining in the partition member 54 and the selectively permeable membrane 62 and the gas components adsorbed on the gas sensor 50 are desorbed by blowing them off with the wind force, and the desorbed various components are desorbed. It is conveyed toward the separated gas discharge unit 308 and discharged from the desorbed gas discharge unit 308 to the outside of the apparatus.

  Next, when the measurement start button 34 is operated by a subject or the like, the control unit 32 outputs a switching control signal to the three-way valves 412 and 420 according to the breath analysis start instruction signal input from the measurement start button 34. Then, an open / close control signal is output to the open / close valve 422. At the same time, the constant voltage source 130 applies a constant voltage across the gas sensor element 80 and the load resistor 134 connected in series. The three-way valve 412 switches the desorption gas flow path in the desorption gas introduction unit 402 to the desorption gas introduction path 406 according to the switching control signal. The three-way valve 420 switches the gas in the exhalation introduction unit 404 according to the switching control signal The flow path is switched to the mixed gas introduction path 416. The open / close valve 422 opens the open / close valve 422 in accordance with the open / close control signal.

  When the above-described operations in the three-way valves 412 and 420 and the on-off valve 422 are completed, the control unit 32 outputs a blow control signal to the blowers 428 and 430, and the blowers 428 and 430 are in accordance with the blow control signal. Air is sent from the outside toward the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70a and the expiration introduction chamber 70b. Then, the mouthpiece 39 is installed in the exhalation introduction port 415 by the subject, and exhalation is introduced from the installed mouthpiece 39.

  The air sent in the direction toward the inside of the gas introduction chamber 70a by the blower 428 flows through the desorption gas introduction path 406 and is sent into the gas introduction chamber 70a, and is sent in the direction toward the inside of the exhalation introduction chamber 70b by the blower 430. After the air is mixed with the exhaled air introduced from the exhalation introduction path 414 to become a mixed gas, it flows through the mixed gas introduction path 416 and is sent into the exhalation introduction chamber 70b. Thus, the air fed by the blower 430 has a function as a carrier gas for transporting exhaled breath to the exhalation introducing chamber 70b as well as a function as a desorbed gas. The air sent into the gas introduction chamber 70 a passes through the opening 56 and flows directly into the first sensor chamber 72. At this time, moisture is removed due to the presence of the selectively permeable membrane 60, and nitrogen monoxide (NO) is preferentially introduced into the first sensor chamber 72 among the specific gas components in the air. Similarly, the mixed gas sent into the exhalation introduction chamber 70 b passes through the opening 58 and flows directly into the second sensor chamber 74. At this time, moisture is removed due to the presence of the selectively permeable membrane 62, and among the specific gas components in the mixed gas, nitrogen monoxide (NO) is preferentially introduced into the second sensor chamber 74.

  Nitrogen monoxide (NO) in the air preferentially introduced into the first sensor chamber 72 is selectively adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 48, and as a result, electricity between the electrodes 84 and 86 of the gas sensor element 80. Resistance increases. The change is output to the A / D converter of the control unit 32 as a change in the output voltage of the amplifier 136. At the same time, nitric oxide (NO) in the mixed gas is selectively adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 50, and as a result, the electrical resistance between the electrodes 84 and 86 of the gas sensor element 80 increases. The change is output to the A / D converter of the control unit 32 as a change in the output voltage of the amplifier 136. The A / D converter converts the input potential change into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the processing circuit of the control unit 32, and the processing circuit converts the nitric oxide ( NO) concentration is calculated. At this time, the processing circuit corrects the detection value of the gas sensor 50 based on the detection value of the gas sensor 48. That is, the A / D converter connected to the gas sensor 48 from the concentration value of nitric oxide (NO) in the mixed gas calculated from the digital signal input from the A / D converter connected to the gas sensor 50. The concentration of nitrogen monoxide (NO) in the air is corrected by subtracting the value of the concentration of nitric oxide (NO) in the air calculated from the digital signal that is a reference signal input from the. The processing circuit displays the corrected calculation result on the display screen 21. Thus, by knowing the change in output voltage, the concentration of the specific gas component in the exhaled breath can be confirmed.

  The air in which nitrogen monoxide (NO) is adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 48 is discharged from the exhalation discharge port 27 of the exhalation discharge unit 26 to the outside of the apparatus. Similarly, the mixed gas in which nitric oxide (NO) is adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensor 50 is discharged from the exhalation discharge port 25 of the exhalation discharge unit 24 to the outside of the apparatus, and the expiration analysis ends.

  As described above, in the modified example of the breath sensing device 10, desorption for allowing air for regenerating the function of the gas sensor 48 to flow into the first sensor chamber 72 between the selectively permeable membrane 60 and the gas sensor 48. A gas introduction unit 402, a desorption gas discharge unit 306 for discharging air from the inside of the first sensor chamber 72, a blower 428 for sending air from the desorption gas introduction unit 402 toward the desorption gas discharge unit 306, An exhalation introduction part 404 for flowing air for regenerating the function of the gas sensor 50 into the second sensor chamber 74 between the selectively permeable membrane 62 and the gas sensor 50, and air from the second sensor chamber 74 inside A desorbed gas discharge unit 308 for discharging, and a blower 430 for sending air from the exhalation introduction unit 404 toward the desorbed gas discharge unit 308 are included. And the control part 32 controls operation | movement of the air blowers 428 and 430 based on the contamination state of the gas sensors 48 and 50. FIG.

  Therefore, by sending air from the desorbed gas introduction unit 402 to the desorbed gas discharge unit 306 and from the exhalation gas introduction unit 404 toward the desorbed gas discharge unit 308 by the blowers 428 and 430, the partition member 52 is caused by the wind force. , 54 and the various components remaining on the permselective membranes 60 and 62 and the various components adsorbed to the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are desorbed, so that exhaled gas can easily reach the gas sensors 48 and 50. The detection sensitivity and response speed of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained without exposing the gas sensors 48 and 50 to high temperature environment and light only by sending air by the blowers 428 and 430, the regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is simplified, and the gas sensor Deterioration of 48 and 50 can be prevented. Furthermore, since various components desorbed by effectively using the wind power generated by the blowers 428 and 430 are discharged, the various components desorbed as compared with the case of using a weak wind force gas that has passed through the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62. As a result, the time required for the regeneration process can be shortened, and it is not necessary to provide a fan or the like for discharging the desorbed components to the outside of the device. Can be achieved even more.

  In the first embodiment and the modifications thereof, the gas sensors 48 and 50 are directly provided on the sensor substrates 40 and 42. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. Heaters may be provided between the sensor substrate 40 and the gas sensor 48 and between the sensor substrate 42 and the gas sensor 50, respectively. The heater is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field. For example, a heater made of a platinum (Pt) thin film or a platinum (Pt) plate can be used. In this case, the heater is electrically connected to the control unit 32, and heats the gas sensors 48, 50 during the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48, 50 according to the heating control signal input from the control unit 32. That is, when the reproduction button 36 is operated by a subject or the like, the control unit 32 controls the operations of the above-described fans 310, 312, 428, 430 and the like according to the reproduction processing start instruction signal input from the reproduction button 36. The heater is heated by supplying a current for a certain period of time, and the gas component adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is desorbed. As described above, by providing the heater, the various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 and the various components adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be more efficiently obtained. Desorption can be performed.

  In the first embodiment and the modifications thereof, the desorbed gas is fed using the blowers 310, 312, 428, and 430, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. . For example, instead of the blowers 310, 312, 428, 430, a gas cylinder in which a gas other than the analysis target gas such as nitrogen gas or high-purity air is compressed is provided, and the desorbed gas is sent by this gas cylinder. Also good. In this case, it is preferable that the gas cylinder is provided with a control valve, and the wind force of the gas is controlled by the control valve. Here, high-purity air is compressed air containing about 79% nitrogen and about 21% oxygen and having an impurity concentration suppressed to the order of ppm to ppb.

  In the first embodiment and the modifications thereof, the desorbed gas discharge portions 306 and 308 are provided to discharge the desorbed gas from the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74. The present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, instead of the desorbed gas discharge units 306 and 308, a fan or the like may be provided inside the exhaled gas discharge units 26 and 24 so that the desorbed gas is discharged. Even in such a configuration, the regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be performed efficiently.

  In the modification of the first embodiment, the opening / closing operation of the on-off valves 436 and 438 is automatically performed according to the internal pressure inside the gas introduction chamber 70a and the inside of the expiration introduction chamber 70b. Is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the on-off valves 436 and 438 are electrically connected to the control unit 32 and input from the control unit 32 based on the measurement results of a pressure sensor or a flow rate sensor provided in the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b, respectively. The opening / closing operation may be controlled according to the opening / closing control signal. Thus, the internal pressure of the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b or the flow rate of the gas flowing into the gas introduction chamber 70a and the exhalation introduction chamber 70b is measured by a pressure sensor or a flow sensor, etc. By controlling the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing valves 436 and 438 based on the measurement result, the flow rate of the gas flowing into the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74 can be made more accurate and the same. Therefore, the detection value of the gas sensor 50 can be corrected more accurately.

[Second Embodiment]
−Configuration−
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the breath sensing device 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a horizontal sectional view showing the internal configuration of the breath sensing device 200. With reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the breath sensing device 200 includes a main body 202 and a surrounding member 204. In the exhalation sensing device 200, the main body 202 has the same configuration as the exhalation sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment, except that the preferable constituent materials in the housing 18 and the partition members 52 and 54 are different. Therefore, the same reference numerals and names are given to components having the same or similar functions as the breath sensing device 10, and detailed description thereof will not be repeated, and only different points will be described.

  In the main body 202, the constituent material of the housing 18 is preferably a material that is not heat insulating, and particularly preferably a material having heat conductivity. Examples of such a material include various metals such as aluminum, thermoplastic plastics, and the like. The constituent material of the partition members 52 and 54 is also preferably a material that is not heat insulating, and particularly preferably a material having heat conductivity. Examples of such a material include various metals such as aluminum, thermoplastic plastics, and the like. The thickness of the partition members 52 and 54 is not particularly limited as long as it has an appropriate mechanical strength and does not hinder heat transfer inside the breath sensing device 200, but is preferably 100 μm to 2000 μm.

  The constituent materials of the exhalation introduction unit 28, the gas exhaust unit 22, the exhalation exhaust units 24 and 26, the desorption gas introduction units 302 and 304, and the desorption gas discharge units 306 and 308 are preferably materials that are not heat insulating. In particular, a material having thermal conductivity is preferable. Examples of such a material include various metals such as aluminum, thermoplastic plastics, and the like.

  Two enclosure members 204 a and 204 b formed along the outer shape of the main body 202, that is, the housing 18 are provided outside the main body 202. The enclosure members 204a and 204b are made of a radio wave absorber that generates heat by absorbing electromagnetic waves around the device, and the radio wave absorber includes a magnetic loss material and a polymer material. The magnetic loss material is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, and spinel type, hexagonal ferrite type, cubic ferrite type or composite such as MnZn ferrite, NiCuZn ferrite, or MnMgZn ferrite. There are ferrites such as ferrite, iron-based amorphous alloys such as FeSi amorphous, permalloy, sendust, stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, silicon steel, magnetic material, or magnetic alloy. The polymer material is not particularly limited as long as it is generally used in the field, and includes a synthetic resin such as a silicone resin, a phenol resin, or an epoxy resin. For example, unnecessary electromagnetic waves other than 0.3 GHz to 30 GHz (hereinafter referred to as “unnecessary electromagnetic waves”) out of electromagnetic waves radiated from a mobile phone device or a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) are given priority to the radio wave absorber. For example, an SiC-hexagonal ferrite composite ceramic wave absorber described in JP-A No. 2004-304045 is used as a magnetic loss material, and a carbon-containing resin is used as a polymer material. be able to.

  When the enclosure members 204a and 204b are made of a radio wave absorber that preferentially absorbs unnecessary electromagnetic waves, the unnecessary electromagnetic waves can be used effectively, and it is considered that a large amount is included in the unnecessary electromagnetic waves. Since electromagnetic waves in a band that may interfere with the operation of the sensing device 200 can be further reduced, more accurate breath analysis can be performed. When the enclosure members 204a and 204b are made of a radio wave absorber that preferentially absorbs microwaves (2.45 GHz), if sufficient heat generation cannot be obtained, microwave heating is performed by a microwave oven. Since electromagnetic energy by microwaves can be obtained, sufficient heat generation can always be obtained without providing a generator for generating electromagnetic waves. In order to control the complex dielectric constant of the magnetic loss material, carbon powder or the like can be added to the radio wave absorber. The method for producing the radio wave absorber is not limited as long as it is a method generally used in the field. For example, the magnetic loss material powder is added to the polymer material and mixed or kneaded, and the mixture or kneaded product is then mixed. There is a method of forming into a desired shape. The content ratio of the magnetic loss material to the polymer material is appropriately selected so that the electromagnetic wave absorption amount is such that the operation of the breath sensing device 200 is not hindered, for example, the inside of the main body 202 is heated to 50 ° C to 150 ° C. Just do it.

  The surrounding members 204a and 204b are configured to be detachable around the main body 202 manually. Such a configuration is not particularly limited as long as it is a configuration that is generally used in the field. For example, a slide type that can be easily attached to and detached from the main body 202 by sliding the enclosure members 204a and 204b, etc. Can be used. The surrounding members 204a and 204b are attached to the main body 202 so as to closely surround the periphery of the main body 202. In addition, it is preferable that the surrounding members 204a and 204b are configured so that the user can carry the main body 202 to which the surrounding members 204a and 204b are attached by manual work. Such a configuration is not particularly limited as long as it is a general configuration in the field, and includes a configuration in which a handle or the like is provided on the upper part of the surrounding members 204a and 204b.

-Operation-
With reference to FIG.8 and FIG.9, the breath sensing apparatus 200 which concerns on this Embodiment operate | moves as follows. In the present embodiment, operations other than regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc. arbitrarily performed by a user such as a subject are the same as the operations of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment.

  A user such as a subject separates from the normal regeneration process using the desorbed gas performed before the start of breath analysis, for example, when the sensitivity of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is significantly reduced, and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62. In any case such as when the partition members 52 and 54 and the inner wall of the housing 18 are significantly contaminated, the regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is performed as follows. That is, the enclosing members 204a and 204b are manually attached so as to tightly surround the periphery of the main body 202 (see FIG. 9) by a subject or the like, and the desorption gas is used when the regeneration button 36 is operated. The reproduction process is performed in the same manner as the operation of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment. Further, the enclosing members 204a and 204b constantly absorb electromagnetic waves around the apparatus and generate heat, and radiate the generated heat to the outside. Therefore, when the periphery of the main body 202 is surrounded by the enclosing members 204a and 204b, the heat generated from the enclosing members 204a and 204b is converted into the casing 18, the exhalation introducing unit 28, the gas exhausting unit 22, the exhalation exhausting unit 24, 26, the gas is transmitted to the desorbed gas introduction units 302 and 304 and the desorbed gas discharge units 306 and 308, and the inside of the main body 202 is heated. Accordingly, the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, and the inner wall of the casing 18 are heated, so that moisture remaining on the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, and the inner wall of the casing 18 is retained. And other gas components are desorbed. Similarly, since the gas sensors 48 and 50 are also heated, gas components and the like adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 are desorbed. Various components desorbed as described above are discharged from the desorbed gas discharge units 306 and 308 to the outside of the breath sensing apparatus 200 together with the desorbed gas.

  As described above, the breath sensing device 200 is formed along the outer shape of the main body 202, that is, the casing 18, and includes a surrounding member 204a including a radio wave absorber that absorbs electromagnetic waves around the breath sensing device 200 and generates heat. 204b is included. The surrounding members 204a and 204b are configured to be detachable so that the periphery of the main body 202 is tightly surrounded by the surrounding members 204a and 204b from the outside.

  In this way, by surrounding the main body 202 with the surrounding members 204a and 204b, the inside of the main body 202 can be heated by the heat generated from the surrounding members 204a and 204b. As a result, the various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54, the permselective membranes 60 and 62, and the inner wall of the housing 18, and the various components adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are more efficiently desorbed. Therefore, exhaled air can easily reach the gas sensors 48 and 50, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained simply by moving the enclosing members 204a and 204b, the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is further simplified. Furthermore, it is not necessary to provide cooling means for moving the enclosure members 204a and 204b away from the main body 202 at the time of cooling, and it is not necessary to provide a device for generating electromagnetic waves. Can be achieved. Furthermore, since electromagnetic waves existing around the device are effectively used, electromagnetic waves in a band that may interfere with the operation of the breath sensing device 200, electromagnetic waves in a band unnecessary for normal life, and bands harmful to the human body. Since electromagnetic waves and the like can be reduced, more accurate breath analysis can be performed, and unnecessary radio waves and harmful radio waves in the surrounding environment can be reduced.

  The casing 18, the exhalation introduction unit 28, the gas exhaust unit 22, the exhalation exhaust units 24 and 26, the desorption gas introduction units 302 and 304, and the desorption gas discharge units 306 and 308 are made of a material having heat conductivity. Therefore, the inside of the main body 202 is more easily heated by the heat generated from the surrounding members 204a and 204b, and various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, and the inner wall of the housing 18, In addition, various components adsorbed on the gas sensors 48 and 50 are more easily desorbed. Therefore, exhaled air can reach the gas sensors 48 and 50 more easily, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be further improved.

  In the second embodiment, the two enclosing members 204a and 204b are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, one or three enclosures are provided. A member may be provided. When a plurality of enclosing members are provided in this way, for example, by making the magnetic loss material included in each enclosing member different, it is possible to absorb electromagnetic waves in a wider area.

  In the second embodiment, the main power supply supplies power to each component of the breath sensing device 200. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, a thermoelectric conversion element such as a Seebeck element that converts heat generated in the enclosing member 204 into electric power, and a rechargeable battery that stores electric power converted by the thermoelectric conversion element may be further provided. Thus, by further providing the thermoelectric conversion element and the rechargeable battery, the heat generated in the enclosing member 204 can be used more efficiently. For example, in an environment where electromagnetic waves cannot be absorbed, the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be regenerated by heating the gas sensors 48 and 50 by energizing the gas sensors 48 and 50 from a rechargeable battery. Further, a regeneration process for the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be performed by providing a heater between the sensor substrates 40 and 42 and the gas sensors 48 and 50 and energizing the heater from a rechargeable battery.

  In addition, the breath sensing device 200 is incorporated in a mobile phone device, and the surrounding member 204 converts electromagnetic energy of unnecessary electromagnetic waves that may hinder communication by the mobile phone device and electromagnetic energy of electromagnetic waves existing in the natural world into heat. After that, the configuration may be such that the electric power converted by the thermoelectric conversion element is stored in a rechargeable battery mounted on the mobile phone device. Thus, by using the rechargeable battery mounted on the mobile phone device, electromagnetic waves existing in the natural world can be used effectively, and communication by the mobile phone device can be performed more smoothly.

[Third Embodiment]
−Configuration−
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exhalation sensing device 300 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a horizontal sectional view showing an internal configuration of the exhalation sensing device 300. Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, exhalation sensing device 300 is different from that having preferable constituent materials in partition members 52, 54, etc., having UV lamp lighting button 35, and having UV lamps 64 a to 64 e. These are the same structures as the breath sensing apparatus 10 which concerns on 1st Embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals and names are given to components having the same or similar functions as the breath sensing device 10, and detailed description thereof will not be repeated, and only different points will be described.

  In the breath sensing apparatus 300, the constituent material of the partition members 52 and 54 is not particularly limited as long as it can transmit ultraviolet rays, and various rubbers such as silicone rubber or various plastics such as acrylic resin can be used. . The thickness of the partition members 52 and 54 is not particularly limited as long as it has an appropriate mechanical strength and does not inhibit the transmission of ultraviolet rays, but is preferably 100 μm to 1000 μm.

  In the present embodiment, the permselective membrane 60 is a hydrophobic membrane (for example, NO-selective) capable of removing moisture and preferentially permeating nitric oxide (NO), which is a specific gas component in exhaled breath. membrane (trade name, manufactured by World Precision Instruments)), and the permselective membrane 62 is made of silicone rubber that can preferentially transmit acetone, which is a specific gas component in exhaled breath, and can transmit ultraviolet rays. Use a membrane.

  The selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are configured to transmit ultraviolet rays. The method for allowing ultraviolet rays to transmit is not particularly limited as long as it is a method that is generally used in the field. For example, a method using a material that can transmit ultraviolet rays as a constituent material, and a method that allows ultraviolet rays to transmit There is a method of adjusting the thickness. The thickness of the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 is not particularly limited as long as it has an appropriate mechanical strength and does not inhibit the permeation of a desired specific gas component in exhaled breath, but is 5 μm to 50 μm. preferable. In the case where the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are adjusted to have a thickness capable of transmitting ultraviolet rays, the thickness of the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 is appropriately adjusted according to the material of the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62.

  On the upper surface of the housing 18, a UV lamp lighting button 35 for lighting the UV lamps 64 a to 64 e is provided in the vicinity of the measurement start button 34. The UV lamp lighting button 35 is pressed and operated by a user such as a subject, and outputs a signal corresponding to the UV lamp lighting start instruction to the control unit 32.

  At least one or more UV lamps 64a to 64e in the present embodiment for irradiating ultraviolet rays are located in the vicinity of the center of the exhalation introduction chamber 70 and do not impede the flow of exhalation. They are arranged in the horizontal direction in order. The UV lamps 64a to 64e are not particularly limited as long as the UV lamps 64a to 64e can irradiate the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 with ultraviolet rays having an intensity that can reach the gas sensors 48 and 50. Those having a wavelength of 200 to 380 nm are preferable. When the wavelength of the ultraviolet rays is within such a range, the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc. can be performed more effectively. If the wavelength is smaller than 200 nm, the ultraviolet rays cannot be propagated in the atmosphere, and there is a possibility that the regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc. cannot be performed. If the wavelength is larger than 380 nm, the light in the visible light region may be emitted, so that there is a possibility that the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc. cannot be performed. The UV lamps 64 a to 64 e are electrically connected to the control unit 32, and the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membrane according to the irradiation control signal input from the control unit 32 based on an instruction from the UV lamp lighting button 35 or the like. 60, 62, the inner wall of the housing 18, and the gas sensors 48, 50 are irradiated with ultraviolet rays.

-Operation-
With reference to FIG.10 and FIG.11, the breath sensing apparatus 300 which concerns on this Embodiment operate | moves as follows. In the present embodiment, operations other than regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48, 50, etc. arbitrarily performed by a user such as a subject are the same as the operations of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment.

  A user such as a subject separates from the normal regeneration process using the desorbed gas performed before the start of breath analysis, for example, when the sensitivity of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is significantly reduced, and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62. In any case such as when the partition members 52 and 54 and the inner wall of the housing 18 are significantly contaminated, the regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is performed as follows. That is, when the regeneration button 36 and the UV lamp lighting button 35 are operated by a subject or the like, regeneration processing using the desorbed gas is performed in the same manner as the operation of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment. It is. Simultaneously with the regeneration process using the desorbed gas, the control unit 32 outputs an irradiation control signal to the UV lamps 64 a to 64 e in accordance with the lighting start instruction signal input from the UV lamp lighting button 35. The UV lamps 64a to 64e generate ultraviolet rays by passing a current for a predetermined time in accordance with the irradiation control signal. As a result, the partition members 52 and 54, the permselective membranes 60 and 62, and the inner wall of the housing 18 are directly irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the UV lamps 64a to 64e. Then, the moisture and other components remaining on the permselective membranes 60 and 62 and the inner wall of the housing 18 are desorbed. Moreover, since the ultraviolet rays that have passed through the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are irradiated to the gas sensors 48 and 50, there is a risk of disturbing the breath analysis that is adsorbed by the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50. Gas components, poisonous substances, etc. are removed. Various components desorbed as described above are discharged out of the breath sensing apparatus 300 from the desorbed gas discharge units 306 and 308 together with the desorbed gas.

  The reason why various components are desorbed from the above-described components by ultraviolet irradiation is as follows. That is, various components adsorbed on the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, the inner walls of the housing 18, and the various sensors adsorbed on the sensing units 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 by energy obtained by ultraviolet irradiation. The component is activated. As a result, the desorption rate of various components is increased or the activated substance is easily desorbed from each component, so that the various components can be desorbed from each component.

  As described above, in the breath sensing device 300, the UV lamps 64a to 64e are provided in the breath introduction chamber 70 between the breath introduction section 28 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 inside the casing 18, and the control section 32 Based on the contamination state of the gas sensors 48 and 50, irradiation control of the UV lamps 64a to 64e is performed.

  Therefore, by irradiating ultraviolet rays from the UV lamps 64a to 64e, various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, and the inner wall of the housing 18, and sensing of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are performed. Since various components adsorbed on the part 82 are desorbed, exhaled air can easily reach the gas sensors 48 and 50, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained without exposing the gas sensors 48 and 50 to a high temperature environment simply by energizing the UV lamps 64a to 64e, the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48 and 50 becomes even easier. And deterioration of gas sensors 48 and 50 can be prevented further. Furthermore, since the UV lamps 64a to 64e that can be incorporated into the apparatus are used, the apparatus can be further reduced in size.

  Further, since the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are configured to be able to transmit ultraviolet rays, the number of installation places of the UV lamps 64a to 64e can be reduced to one, and the ultraviolet irradiation can be performed more efficiently. The energy obtained by can be used.

[Modification]
−Configuration−
FIG. 12 is a horizontal sectional view showing a modified example of the breath sensing device 300 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 12, a modified example of the breath sensing device 300 is configured such that the partition members 52 and 54 and the selective transmission films 60 and 62 do not transmit ultraviolet light, the reflectors 38 a to 38 d are provided, and The configuration is the same as that of the breath sensing device 300 except that the installation position and number of the UV lamps 64 are different. In the modified example of the breath sensing device 300, components having the same or similar functions as the breath sensing device 300 are denoted by the same reference numerals and names, and detailed description thereof will not be repeated, and only different points will be described. .

  In the modified example of the breath sensing device 300, the constituent material of the partition members 52 and 54 is not particularly limited as long as it is a material that cannot transmit ultraviolet light or is difficult to transmit, and various rubbers such as ethylene propylene rubber, polycarbonate, or the like Various plastics can be used. The thickness of the partition members 52 and 54 is not particularly limited as long as it has an appropriate mechanical strength and cannot transmit ultraviolet light or is difficult to transmit, but is preferably 100 μm to 2000 μm.

  In this modification, the permselective membrane 60 is a hydrophobic membrane (for example, NO-selective membrane) that removes moisture and can preferentially permeate nitric oxide (NO), which is a specific gas component in exhaled breath. (Trade name, manufactured by World Precision Instruments)), the permselective membrane 62 can preferentially transmit acetone, which is a specific gas component in exhaled breath, and cannot or cannot transmit ultraviolet rays. A film made of polyimide is used.

  The selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are configured so as not to transmit ultraviolet light or to transmit light. The method for making ultraviolet light impervious or difficult to transmit is not particularly limited as long as it is a method commonly used in the field, but for example, a method using a material that makes ultraviolet light impervious or difficult to transmit as a constituent material. And a method of adjusting the thickness of the selectively permeable membrane. The thickness of the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 is not particularly limited as long as it has an appropriate mechanical strength and does not inhibit the permeation of a desired specific gas component in exhaled breath, but is 5 μm to 50 μm. preferable. In the case where the thickness of the selectively permeable films 60 and 62 is adjusted so that ultraviolet rays cannot be transmitted or difficult to transmit, the thickness of the selectively permeable films 60 and 62 is appropriately determined according to the material of the selectively permeable films 60 and 62. Adjusted.

  In the vicinity of the center of the exhalation introduction chamber 70 and at a position where the circulation of exhalation is not hindered, at least one or more UV lamps 64f to 64h in this modification for irradiating ultraviolet rays are arranged in this order. Provided side by side in the horizontal direction. The UV lamps 64 f to 64 h are electrically connected to the control unit 32, and the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membrane according to the irradiation control signal input from the control unit 32 based on an instruction from the UV lamp lighting button 35 or the like. 60 and 62 and the inner wall of the housing 18 are irradiated with ultraviolet rays.

  In the first sensor chamber 72, two UV lamps 64i and 64j are provided so as to sandwich the gas sensor 48 in the vicinity of the sensor substrate 40 and do not disturb the breath analysis, and sandwich the UV lamps 64i and 64j. On the side opposite to the gas sensor 48, reflectors 38a and 38b are provided, respectively. The reflecting plates 38 a and 38 b are arranged so that the reflecting surfaces thereof face the gas sensor 48. These reflectors 38 a and 38 b reflect the ultraviolet rays generated by the two UV lamps 64 i and 64 j toward the gas sensor 48. Similarly, in the second sensor chamber 74, two UV lamps 64k and 64l are provided in the vicinity of the sensor substrate 42 so as to sandwich the gas sensor 50, and on the opposite side of the gas sensor 50 with the UV lamps 64k and 64l interposed therebetween. Are provided with reflecting plates 38c and 38d, respectively. The reflecting plates 38c and 38d are arranged so that the reflecting surfaces thereof face the gas sensor 50. These reflectors 38 c and 38 d reflect the ultraviolet rays generated by the two UV lamps 64 k and 64 l toward the gas sensor 50. The reflecting plates 38a to 38d are not particularly limited as long as they can reflect ultraviolet rays. For example, a curved member or a plate member having a thickness of about 0.5 mm to 1 mm made of an aluminum plate, a silver spray coating member, or the like. Is preferably used. Here, the curved member is a member having a concave surface formed of a curved surface such as a quadratic curved surface, for example, a parabolic member having a paraboloid. As the UV lamps 64f to 64l, for example, those similar to the UV lamps 64a to 64e in the breath sensing device 300, such as those having a wavelength of emitted ultraviolet light of 200 nm to 380 nm, can be used.

  Thus, since the UV lamps 64i to 64l are provided at positions away from the gas sensors 48 and 50 so as not to disturb the breath analysis, the UV lamps 64i to 64l are generated by providing the reflectors 38a to 38d. Ultraviolet rays can be efficiently applied to the gas sensors 48 and 50. As a result, energy obtained by ultraviolet irradiation can be used more efficiently, so that gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the breath analysis adsorbed to the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are further reduced. It can be desorbed efficiently. The UV lamps 64i to 64l are electrically connected to the control unit 32, and UV light is applied to the gas sensors 48, 50, etc. according to an irradiation control signal input from the control unit 32 based on an instruction from the UV lamp lighting button 35 or the like. Irradiation.

-Operation-
Referring to FIG. 12, the modified example of breath sensing device 300 according to the third embodiment operates as follows. In this modification, the operations other than the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48 and 50 arbitrarily performed by a user such as a subject are the same as the operations of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment.

  A user such as a subject separates from the normal regeneration process using the desorbed gas performed before breath analysis, for example, when the sensitivity of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is significantly reduced, and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, In any case such as when the partition members 52 and 54 and the inner wall of the housing 18 are significantly contaminated, the regeneration processing of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is performed as follows. That is, when the regeneration button 36 and the UV lamp lighting button 35 are operated by a subject or the like, regeneration processing using the desorbed gas is performed in the same manner as the operation of the breath sensing device 10 according to the first embodiment. It is. Simultaneously with the regeneration process using the desorbed gas, the control unit 32 outputs an irradiation control signal to the UV lamps 64f to 64l in accordance with the lighting start instruction signal input from the UV lamp lighting button 35. The UV lamps 64f to 64l generate ultraviolet rays by passing a current for a predetermined time in accordance with the irradiation control signal. Accordingly, the ultraviolet rays generated from the UV lamps 64f to 64h are directly irradiated to the partition members 52 and 54 and the inner wall of the housing 18, and the UV lamps 64f to 64h are applied to the selective transmission films 60 and 62. Since the ultraviolet rays generated from the openings 56 and 58 are directly irradiated, moisture remaining on the partition members 52 and 54, the inner wall of the casing 18, and the permselective membranes 60 and 62 and other Components and the like are desorbed. The gas sensors 48 and 50 are irradiated with ultraviolet rays generated from the UV lamps 64i to 64l and ultraviolet rays generated from the UV lamps 64i to 64l and reflected by the reflecting plates 38a to 38d. Gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the breath analysis adsorbed on the sensing units 82 of 50 and 50 are desorbed. The various components desorbed as described above are discharged from the desorbed gas discharge units 306 and 308 to the outside of the modified example of the breath sensing device 300 together with the desorbed gas.

  As described above, in the modified example of the breath sensing device 300, the UV lamps 64f to 64g are provided in the breath introduction chamber 70 between the breath introduction section 28 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 inside the casing 18, UV lamps 64 i and 64 j are provided in the first sensor chamber 72 between the selectively permeable membrane 60 and the gas sensor 48, and UV lamps 64 k and 64 l are provided in the second sensor chamber 74 between the selectively permeable membrane 62 and the gas sensor 50. It is done. Then, the control unit 32 performs irradiation control of the UV lamps 64f to 64l based on the contamination state of the gas sensors 48 and 50.

  Therefore, by irradiating ultraviolet rays from the UV lamps 64f to 64l, various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62, and the inner wall of the housing 18, and sensing of the gas sensors 48 and 50 are performed. Since various components adsorbed on the part 82 are desorbed, exhaled air can easily reach the gas sensors 48 and 50, and the detection sensitivity and response speed of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be further improved. In addition, since the above-described effects can be obtained without exposing the gas sensors 48 and 50 to a high temperature environment simply by energizing the UV lamps 64f to 64l, the regeneration process of the gas sensors 48 and 50 is further simplified. And deterioration of gas sensors 48 and 50 can be prevented further. Furthermore, since the UV lamps 64f to 64l that can be incorporated in the apparatus are used, the apparatus can be further reduced in size.

  In addition, for example, when the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are configured so as not to be able to transmit ultraviolet rays or difficult to transmit ultraviolet rays, the UV lamps 64f to 64l are installed as described above. By doing so, the energy obtained by the ultraviolet irradiation can be used efficiently.

  In the modified example of the third embodiment, the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are configured so as not to transmit ultraviolet light or to transmit the ultraviolet light. The form is not limited, and the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable films 60 and 62 may be configured to transmit ultraviolet rays. Thereby, the energy obtained by ultraviolet irradiation can be utilized even more efficiently.

  Moreover, in the said 3rd Embodiment and its modification, although UV lamp 64a-64l was used as an apparatus for irradiating an ultraviolet-ray, this invention is not limited to such embodiment, For example, A mercury lamp or a UV-LED (Light Emitting Diode) may be used.

<Action and effect>
According to the present embodiment, the breath sensing device 10 and its modification, the breath sensing device 200, and the breath sensing device 300 and its modification include a gas sensor 48 for detecting a specific gas component in the breath, 50, a mixed gas introduction path 416 of the exhalation introduction unit 28 or the exhalation introduction unit 404 for introducing exhalation into the inside of the case 18, and an exhalation discharge unit for exhausting exhalation from the inside of the case 18 24, 26, and desorbed gas introducing units 302, 304 for allowing desorbed gas to flow into the housing 18 to regenerate the functions of the gas sensors 48, 50, or desorbed gas introducing unit 402 and exhaled gas introducing unit. 404, desorbed gas discharge sections 306 and 308 for discharging desorbed gas from the inside of the housing 18, desorbed gas introducing sections 302 and 304, or desorbed gas introducing section 402 and The blowers 310 and 312 or the blowers 428 and 430 and the gas sensors 48 and 50 and the blowers 310 and 312 or the blower 428 for sending the desorbed gas from the gas introduction unit 404 toward the desorbed gas discharge units 306 and 308. , 430, and a control unit 32 for controlling the operation of 430.

  In this manner, the blower 310, 312 or the blower 428, 430 causes the desorption gas introduction unit 302, 304, or the desorption gas introduction unit 402 and the exhalation introduction unit 404, to the desorption gas discharge unit 306, 308. Since the desorbed gas is sent to the gas sensor, gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the breath analysis adsorbed by the gas sensors 48 and 50 are desorbed by the wind force. The response speed can be further improved. In addition, since the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be obtained without exposing the gas sensors 48 and 50 to a high temperature environment and light only by feeding the desorbed gas by the fans 310 and 312 or the fans 428 and 430, the gas sensors 48 and 50 The regeneration process is simplified and the deterioration of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be prevented. Furthermore, since various components detached are discharged by effectively using wind power generated by the fans 310 and 312 or the fans 428 and 430, the various components removed are discharged more quickly and are necessary for the regeneration process. The time can be shortened, and it is not necessary to provide a configuration such as a fan for discharging the desorbed various components to the outside of the apparatus, and the apparatus can be further reduced in size.

  Moreover, the control part 32 controls operation | movement of the air blowers 310 and 312 or the air blowers 428 and 430 based on the contamination states, such as the gas sensors 48 and 50, the partition members 52 and 54, and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62. In this manner, gas components and poisonous substances that may interfere with the breath analysis adsorbed on the gas sensors 48 and 50 are desorbed in accordance with the contamination state of the gas sensors 48 and 50 and the like. Sensitivity and response speed can be improved more efficiently.

  In the above embodiment, the control unit 32 controls the operation of each reproduction process according to the reproduction process start instruction signal input from the reproduction button 36, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the control unit 32 constantly monitors the detection values of the gas sensors 48 and 50 that are input to the processing circuit via the A / D converter, and the detection values of the gas sensors 48 and 50 become equal to or less than a predetermined value. Alternatively, it may be configured to automatically control the operation of each regeneration process when it is determined that the sensitivity of the gas sensors 48 and 50 has decreased or the amount of gas reaching the gas sensors 48 and 50 has decreased. Further, the control unit 32 may be configured to automatically control the operation of each reproduction process after a predetermined time has elapsed.

  In the above embodiment, the user such as the subject performs the regeneration process of the normal gas sensors 48 and 50 using the desorbed gas before the start of the breath analysis, but the present invention is applied to such an embodiment. There is no limitation, and normal regeneration processing may be performed both after the end of breath analysis or before and after the start of breath analysis. Accordingly, various components remaining on the partition members 52 and 54 and the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 and various components including the analysis target gas adsorbed on the sensing unit 82 of the gas sensors 48 and 50 can be desorbed. Therefore, more accurate breath analysis can be performed.

  In the above embodiment, two gas sensors 48 and 50 are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, one of the first sensor chamber 72 and the second sensor chamber 74 may be provided, and the breath analysis may be performed by one of the gas sensors 48 and 50.

  In the above embodiment, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 are provided in order to improve the detection sensitivity and detection accuracy for the specific gas component of the gas sensors 48 and 50. However, the present invention includes such an embodiment. Without being limited, the selectively permeable membranes 60 and 62 may not be provided.

  In the second embodiment, the enclosure member 204 is provided together with the configuration for performing the regeneration process using the desorbed gas. In the third embodiment, the regeneration process using the desorbed gas is performed. Although the UV lamp 64 is provided together with the configuration for performing the present invention, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the enclosure member 204 and the UV are configured together with the configuration for performing the regeneration process using the desorption gas. The structure provided with the lamp | ramp 64 may be sufficient.

  In the above embodiment, exhalation is used as the gas to be analyzed by the gas sensors 48 and 50, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, the gas to be analyzed may be skin gas or body odor gas in addition to exhaled breath for biometric information acquisition, or automobile exhaust gas, air pollution contained in the atmosphere near the factory for environmental information acquisition It may be a gas or a volcanic gas contained in the atmosphere near the active volcano.

  The embodiment disclosed this time is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above. The scope of the present invention is indicated by each claim in the scope of claims after taking into account the description of the detailed description of the invention, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the wording described therein are included. Including.

It is a perspective view of the breath sensing device concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a horizontal sectional view showing the internal structure of the breath sensing device concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows schematically an example of a structure of a gas sensor element. It is a figure which shows typically the mode of the surface modification in a sensing part. It is a figure which shows the structure of the measurement circuit for measuring the resistance change of a gas sensor element provided in both gas sensors. It is a perspective view which shows the modification of the breath sensing apparatus which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a horizontal sectional view showing the internal structure of the breath sensing device concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view of the breath sensing device concerning a 2nd embodiment of the present invention. It is a horizontal sectional view which shows the internal structure of the breath sensing apparatus which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of the breath sensing device concerning a 3rd embodiment of the present invention. It is a horizontal sectional view showing the internal configuration of the breath sensing device concerning a 3rd embodiment of the present invention. It is a horizontal sectional view showing an internal configuration of a modification of the breath sensing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

10, 200, 300 Exhalation sensing device 18 Housing 20 Display unit 22, 432, 434 Gas exhaust unit 23, 431, 433 Gas exhaust port 24, 26 Exhalation exhaust unit 25, 27 Exhalation exhaust port 28, 404 Exhalation introducing unit 30, 415 Exhalation inlet 32 Control unit 34 Measurement start button 35 UV lamp lighting button 36 Play button 38 Reflector plate 39 Mouthpiece 40, 42 Sensor substrate 48, 50 Gas sensor 52, 54, 401 Partition member 56, 58 Opening 60, 62 selection Permeable membrane 64 UV lamp 70 Exhalation introduction chamber 72 First sensor chamber 74 Second sensor chamber 76, 422, 436, 438 On-off valve 202 Main body 204 Enclosure member 306, 308 Desorption gas discharge unit 302, 304, 402 Desorption gas introduction Part 310,312,428,430 blower 406,408 418 desorbed gas introduction path 412,420 three-way valve 414 breath introduction path 416 mixed gas introduction passage

Claims (13)

A housing provided with a sensor for detecting a specific gas component in the gas inside;
A gas introduction part for introducing gas into the housing;
A gas discharge unit for discharging gas from the inside of the housing;
A desorption gas introduction part for allowing desorption gas for regenerating the function of the sensor to flow into the housing;
A desorption gas discharge unit for discharging the desorption gas from the inside of the housing;
Desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means for sending the desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introducing unit toward the desorbed gas discharging unit;
Control means for controlling the operation of the sensor and the desorbed gas blowing regeneration means;
An enclosure member including a radio wave absorber that is formed along the outer shape of the housing and generates heat by absorbing electromagnetic waves around the device;
The gas sensing device according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure member is configured to be detachable so that a periphery of the housing is tightly enclosed by the enclosure member from the outside. A housing provided with a sensor for detecting a specific gas component in the gas inside;
A gas introduction part for introducing gas into the housing;
A gas discharge unit for discharging gas from the inside of the housing;
A desorption gas introduction part for allowing desorption gas for regenerating the function of the sensor to flow into the housing;
A desorption gas discharge unit for discharging the desorption gas from the inside of the housing;
Desorbed gas blowing and regenerating means for sending the desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introducing unit toward the desorbed gas discharging unit;
Control means for controlling the operation of the sensor and the desorbed gas blowing regeneration means;
An ultraviolet irradiation means for irradiating ultraviolet rays provided in the housing;
A selectively permeable membrane that is provided between the gas introduction part and the sensor and allows the specific gas component in the gas introduced from the gas introduction part to pass through preferentially;
The control means controls the operation of the ultraviolet irradiation means based on the contamination state of the sensor,
The selectively permeable membrane is a gas sensing device configured to transmit the ultraviolet light.   3. The gas sensing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls an operation of the desorbed gas blowing regeneration unit based on a contamination state of the sensor.   The gas desorption apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the desorption gas is a gas different from the specific gas component.   5. The gas sensing device according to claim 1, wherein the desorbed gas discharge unit is provided at a position different from a position where the gas discharge unit is provided.   The desorbed gas blowing means feeds desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introduction section toward the desorbed gas discharge section at an air volume of 0.01 L / min to 1000 L / min. The gas sensing device according to claim 5. The desorbed gas blowing means is a fan,
6. The fan according to claim 1, wherein the fan feeds the desorbed gas from the desorbed gas introduction section toward the desorbed gas discharge section at an air volume of 0.05 L / min to 10 L / min. The gas sensing device according to any one of the above.   The gas sensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sensor includes a sensing unit made of an aggregate of carbon nanotubes. A correction sensor for correcting a value detected by the sensor;
The gas sensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control unit corrects a value detected by the sensor based on a detection result of the correction sensor. .   10. The housing, the gas introduction part, the gas discharge part, the desorption gas introduction part, and the desorption gas discharge part are made of a material having heat conductivity. The gas sensing device according to any one of the above. A thermoelectric conversion element that converts heat generated in the enclosure member into electric power;
The gas sensing device according to claim 1, further comprising a rechargeable battery that stores electric power converted by the thermoelectric conversion element. An ultraviolet irradiation means for irradiating ultraviolet rays, provided inside the housing;
The gas sensing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the ultraviolet irradiation unit based on a contamination state of the sensor.   13. The gas sensing device according to claim 12, further comprising a reflection means for reflecting the ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet irradiation means toward the sensor.

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