AU781823B2 - Method and computer code for portable sensing - Google Patents

Description

PCT/US00/30281 WO 01/33212 METHOD AND COMPUTER CODE FOR PORTABLE

SENSING

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED

APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent This application sU.S. Provisional Paent Application Serial No. 60/164,022, filed on November 4, 1999, U.S. Provisinal Patent Application Serial No. 60/162,683, filed on November 1999, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/188,307, filed on March 10, 2000, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/188,360, filed on March 10, 2000, all of which are hereby .al o. 60/188,360, filed on March incorporated by reference as if set forth in full in this document.

FIELD OF THE

INVENTION

This invention generally relates to the detection and transmission of sensory data. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and computer code(s) for detecting and transmitting sensory data from one portable device to another for analytic purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE

INVENTION

Techniques and devices for detecting a wide variety of analytes in fluids such as vapors, gases and liquids are well known. Such devices generally comprise an ay of sensors that in the presence of an analyte produce a unique output signature.

array of sensors that in the presence such a a nelectrical response, Using pattern recognition algorithms, the output signature, such as an electrical response, can be correlated and compared to the known ouput signature of a particular analyte or mixture of substances. By comparing the unknown signature with the stored or known signatures,the analyte can be detected, identified and quantified. Examples of such detection devices can be found in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,571,401(by Lewis et al. and assigned to California Institute of Technology); 5,675,070 (by Gelperin and assigned to NCR to California Institu t e of 6 Tl 5, d to British Technology Group Corporation); 5,697,326 (by Mottram et al. and assigned to British Technology Group Limited); 5,788,833 (by Lewis et al. and assigned to California Institute of Technology); 5,807,701 (by Payne et al. and assigned to Aromascan PLC); and 5,891,398 (by Lewis et al. and assigned to California Institute of Technology), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Concurrent with the development of better detection techniques for detecting analytes, there is an emerging need to develop methods and devices to efficiently transmit the collected sensory data for swift analysis. Under some prior PCT/US00/30281 WO 01133212 customary practices, the sensory data were first captured and then physically transported back to a laboratory or some other designated facility for subsequent analysi. Very often, analyses on these data would not be performed until a substantial period of time had elapsed and consequently their results would not be available for hours, days or even weeksimely transmission and analysis of sensory data for detected analytes Timely transmission and analysis rhere it is o s o There are many instancesw have tremendous applications in a variety of areas. There are many instances where it is desirable to obtain results on the analysis of the sensory data in a timely manner. Fo example, in a hospital!medical environment, it would be greatly beneficial if data collected from a patient can be transmitted quickly to a laboratory to determine the cause of the patient's ailments thereby allowing the doctors to prescribe the necessary treatment without any undue delay. In a similar example, medical and other related data from home monitoring devices can be collected and transmitted swiftly to the appropriate hospitals and/aor n ahties to allow them to provide better response to home cmergencies In another example, in environments where the presence of certain substances can potentially lead to dangerous conditions, such as a gas leak in a foundry or a home, the swift transmission of sensory data for analysis can very well preempt an impending disaster. Clearly, there are many other situations which one could think of where the efficient transmission of sensory data will generate tremendous benefits. Hence, it would be desirable and beneficial to provide a system that is capable of timely transmitting sensory data for analysis.

In addition to the need to have timely transmission of sensory data, there is a need to provide easy access to the collective data compiled for the known analytes. Th results of any detection analysis are only as good as the data which are available for comparison. At the present time, various analytes have been identified and data therefor have been compiled and stored all over the world. Perhaps, due to the voluminous amount of data that are available, these data are generally not centralized in any one particular repository but are instead separately stored at different facilities. The segregation of these data, therefore, renders a complete and accurate analysis more difficult. Hence, it would be desirable to have a system that is capable of providing better access to various data repositories thereby allowing more accurate analyses to be performed. The present invention remedies these shortcomings by providing a system of transmitting, storing and retrieving sensory information PCT/US00/30281 WO 01/33212 SUMMARY OF THE

INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to detecting and transmitting The present inven exemplary embodiment, the present analyte data from a field device to a processor. In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a method and computer code(s) for capturing and transmitting analyte data over a computer network such as an internet, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network or any combination thereof des a method for In am exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a method for capturing and transmitting analyte data pertaining to an unknown analyte. The data for the unknown analyte is captured using a field device at a first geographic location. The captured analyte data is then transmitted via a computer network to a processor at a second geographic location. In a preferred embodiment, the captured analyte data are transferred via a worldwide network of computers such as an internet, the Internet, a combination thereof, and the like.

In one aspect, before the captured analyte data are transmitted, they are encoded by the field device into a transmissible format. Upon receipt of the encoded analyte data, the processor decodes such data to permit analysis to be p d. In ordrom to analyze the captured analyte data, the processor retrieves data of known analytes from an electronic library and performs the analysis using such data. In addition, the processor can update the electronic library with the captured analyte data.

By transmitting the captured analyte data via a computer network, the present invention provides a method that is capable of transmitting analyte data in a timely and efficient manner. Consequently, analyses can be performed swiftly and results can be obtained on a more expedited basis.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method of the present invention is implemented in the form of computer codes. More specifically, the present invention provides a system including computer code for capturing and transmitting analyte data pertaining to an unknown analyte. The computer code is embedded in memory, which can be at a single location or multiple locations in a distributed manner. The system has a first code directed to capturing data for the unknown analyte using a field device at a first geographic location. The system also includes a second code directed to transmitting the captured analyte data to a processor at a second geographic location via a computer network. In a preferred embodiment, the captured analyte data are transferred via a worldwide network of computers such as an internet, the Interet, a combination thereof, and the like.

pCT/US00/30 2 8 1 WO 01/33212 In one aspect, before the captured analyte data are transmitted, the system includes computer code directed to encoding the captured analyte data by the field device into a transmissible format. The system also includes computer code directed to decoding the encoded analyte data by the processor to permit analysis to be performed. In order to analyze the captured analyte data, the system further includes computer code directed to etrieving data of known analytes from an electronic library and performing the analysis using such data. In addition, the system includes computer code directed to updating the electronic library with the captured analyte data. This code and others can be used with the present invention to perform the functionality described herein as well as others By transmitting the captured analyte data via a computer network, the present invention provides a system including computer codes that is capable of transmitting analyte data in a timely and efficient manner. Consequently, analyses can be performed swiftly and results can be obtained on a more expedited basis.

Numerous benefits are achieved by way of the present invention over conventional techniques. For example, the present invention allows for the efficient transfer of analyte data from one geographic location toanother geographic location thereby providing utility and applications in various areas such as hospitaimedicea applications, fire safety monitoring, environmental toxicology, remediation, biomedicine, material quality control, food monitoring, agricultural monitoring, heavy industrial manufacturing, ambient air monitoring, worker protection, emissions control, product quality testing, oillgas petrochemical applications, combustible gas detection, H2S monitoring, hazardous leak detection, emergency response and law enforcement applications, explosives detection, utility and power applications, food/beverage/agriculture applications, freshness detection, fruit ripening control, fermentation process monitoring and control, flavor composition and identification, product quality and identification, refrigerant and fumigant detection, cosmetic/perfume applications, fragrance formulation, chemicaplastics/pharmaceuticals applications, fugitive emission identification, solvent recovery effectiveness, anesthesia and sterilization gas detection, infectious disease detection, breath analysis and body fluids analysis. Additionally, the present invention uses conventional computer hardware and/or software, which make it easy to implement.

Using a distributed computer network for collecting analyte data and then performing the analysis and interpretation remotely has a number of advantages. For example, every new piece of data can be added to the electronic library thereby 004785791 continually expanding the repository of knowledge. This approach allows historical data to be kept and retrieved for subsequent use. In addition, with the use of an electronic library, data can be easily shared at different physical locations thereby facilitating objective data comparison. For instance, data relating to a product can be captured at various shipment checkpoints to provide quality control on the product. Finally, by providing the capability to have a number of field devices transmit data to a central location, a large area can be monitored for safety or other purposes.

Reference to the remaining portions of the specification, including the drawings and claims, will realize other features and advantages of the present invention. Further features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the present invention, are described in detail below with respect to accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements.

,eooo In a first aspect of the invention there is provided a system comprising memory 15 including a computer code product for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an i:: analyte from a first device to a second device, said memory comprising: i a code directed to capturing analyte data pertaining to said analyte using said first device; 2 a code directed to transmitting said analyte data via a computer network to said second device; a code directed to encoding said analyte data into a transmissible format for transmission via said computer network to said second device; •o a code directed to decoding said analyte data in said transmissible format; and a code directed to directing said second device to perform an analysis on said analyte data, wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network.

In a further aspect of the invention there is provided a system including memory and computer codes for detecting and transferring analyte data, said system comprising: 004785791 a code directed to capturing said analyte data using a first device or a second device; a code directed to converting said analyte data into a transmissible format; a code directed to transmitting said converted analyte data in said transmissible format from said first device or said second device; and a code directed to receiving said transmitted data in said transmissible format using said first device or said second device; wherein said first device and said second device are functionally equivalent and wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network.

In another aspect of the invention there is provided a system including memory and computer codes for identifying an analyte, said system comprising: a code for capturing at a first location data pertaining to said analyte whose S• identity is unknown; 15 a code for transmitting said data from said first location via a computer network; a code for receiving said data at a second location; and a code for comparing said received data at said second location to data pertaining to known analytes, thereby identifying said analyte and wherein said second location resides on a server communicatively connected to 00:• 20 said first device via said computer network.

oo.e :In still another aspect of the invention there is provided a system including memory and computer codes for delivering medicine to a patient at a remote location, said system comprising: a code directed to identifying needs of said patient at said remote location; a code directed to transmitting information relating to said needs to a processor via a computer network; 004785791 a code directed to receiving from said processor information in response to said needs; and a code directed to using information received from said processor to synthesize or dispense said medicine to satisfy said needs of said patient, wherein said code directed to identifying includes a code directed to capturing information relating to said needs using a field device, and wherein said field device includes an analysing unit configured to analyse the captured information relating to said needs as obtained from said patient, based on the information received from said processor.

In still another aspect of the invention there is provided a system including memory and computer codes for facilitating consumer choice, said system comprising: a code directed to facilitating selection of a first consumer product having a known signature; and a code directed to comparing said known signature with a plurality of signatures 15 so as to allow a similar signature indicative of a second consumer product to be selected.

In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a system including memory and computer codes for delivering analyte data, said system comprising: rqeta codedirected to receiving a request from a user using a first device, the user requesting data of a known analyte; 20 a code resident at a second device and directed to retrieving data of said known .•analyte from an electronic library; said second device being resident on a server, and S":a code directed to transmitting said retrieved data to said user via a computer network on which said server is resident.

In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a method for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an analyte from a first device to a second device, said memory comprising: capturing analyte data pertaining to said analyte using said first device; transmitting said analyte data via a computer network to said second device; 004785791 encoding said analyte data into a transmissible format for transmission via said computer network to said second device; decoding said analyte data in said transmissible format; and directing said second device to perform an analysis on said analyte data.

In still a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method performed over a computer network for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an analyte from a first device to a second device, said method comprising: capturing analyte data pertaining to said analyte using said first device; transmitting said analyte data via a computer network to said second device wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network encoding said analyte data into a transmissible format for transmission via said o "computer network to said second device; decoding said analyte data in said transmissible format; and 15 directing said second device to perform an analysis on said analyte data.

In still another aspect of the present invention there is a method performed over a i computer network for detecting and transferring analyte data, comprising: capturing said analyte data using a first device or a second device; converting said analyte data into a transmissible format; transmitting said converted analyte data in said transmissible format from said Tfirst device or said second device; and receiving said transmitted data in said transmissible format using said first device or said second device; wherein said first device and said second device are functionally equivalent and wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network.

004785791 In still a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method performed over a computer network for identifying an analyte, comprising: capturing at a first location data pertaining to said analyte whose identity is unknown; transmitting said data from said first location via a computer network; receiving said data at a second location; and comparing said received data at said second location to data pertaining to known analytes, thereby identifying said analyte, wherein said second location resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network.

In still a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method for delivering analyte data, comprising: receiving a request from a user using a first device, the user requesting data of a known analyte; i retrieving data on a second device resident on a server said data corresponding 15 to said known analyte from an electronic library; and transmitting said retrieved data to said user via a computer network on which said server is resident.

In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a method for identifying San analyte, comprising: 004785791 capturing at a first location data pertaining to said analyte whose identity is unknown; transmitting said data from said first location via a computer network; receiving said data at a second location; and comparing said received data at said second location to data pertaining to known analytes, thereby identifying said analyte.

In still another aspect of the invention there is provided a method for analysing data pertaining to a detected analyte, comprising: transmitting data pertaining to known analytes from an electronic library to a first location via a computer network; receiving said data pertaining to known analytes at said first location; and analysing said data pertaining to said detected analyte using said received data pertaining to known analytes at said first location and generating an analysis result.

A method performed over a computer network for delivering medicine to a 15 patient at a remote location, comprising: 0*9400 identifying needs of said patient at said remote location using code which S~captures information relating to said needs using a field device; .0 transmitting information relating to said needs to a processor via a computer ~0BBBB network; receiving from said processor information in response to said needs; and using information received from said processor to synthesize or dispense said medicine to satisfy said needs of said patient, and wherein said field device includes an analysing unit configured to analyse the captured information relating to said needs as obtained from said patient, based on the information received from said processor.

004785791 In still a further aspect of the present invention there is provide a method performed over a computer network for delivering medicine to a patient at a remote location, comprising: identifying needs of said patient at said remote location using code which captures information relating to said needs using a field device; transmitting information relating to said needs to a processor via a computer network; receiving from said processor information in response to said needs; and using information received from said processor to synthesize or dispense said medicine to satisfy said needs of said patient, and wherein said field device includes an analysing unit configured to analyse the captured information relating to said needs as obtained from said patient, based on the 8: *Ce information received from said processor In another aspect of the invention there is provided a method for facilitating 15 consumer choice, comprising: facilitating selection of a first consumer product having a known signature; and ,comparing said known signature with a plurality of signatures so as to allow a *0 similar signature indicative of a second consumer product to be selected.

In still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an analyte from a first device to a second 400 device, said method comprising: S- capturing signature analyte data pertaining to said analyte using a sensor array of said first device; 004785791 transmitting a request to said second device, over a computer network, for reference analyte data, wherein the reference analyte data is to be compared with the captured signature analyte data at said first device; receiving, by said first device over the computer network, the reference analyte data sent by said second device; and analyzing the captured signature analyte data at said first device, based on the reference analyte data obtained from said second device over said computer network.

Any discussion of documents, publications, acts, devices, substances, articles, materials or the like which is included in the present specification has been done so for the sole purpose so as to provide a contextual basis for the present invention. Any such discussions are not to be understood as admission of subject matter which forms the prior art base, or any part of the common general knowledge of the relevant technical field in relation to the technical field of the present invention to which it extended at the priority o 15 date or dates of the present invention.

io• Throughout the specification the term "comprise" and variations on this term i .including "comprising" and "comprises" are to be understood to imply the inclusion of a feature, integer, step or element, and not exclude other features, integers, steps or S: elements.

20 Brief Description of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a simplified schematic block diagram showing a system according to one embodiment of the present invention; i Fig. 2 is a simplified schematic block diagram showing a system according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 is a simplified schematic block diagram showing a system according to a third embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a simplified flow diagram showing the process of encoding the data in accordance with the present invention; 004785791 Fig. 5 is a simplified flow diagram showing the process of decoding the data in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 6 is a simplified schematic block diagram showing a system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a simplified schematic block diagram showing a system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 8 is a simplified schematic block diagram showing a system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

pCTIUSOO30281 WO 01/33 2 12 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE

INVENTION

AND SPECIFIC

EMBODIMENTS

Fig. I is a simplified schematic block diagram showing a detection and transmission system 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

transmission system 2 according the sope f the claims herein.

This diagram is merely an example which should not limit her variations, modifications, aherein.d One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many other variations, modifications, and alternatives. As shown, the system 2 preferably includes a field device 10, a processor 12 and an electronic library 14.an analyte 16 and transmitting The field device 10 is capable of detecting a 1 the data relating to such analyte via a computer network 18 to the processor 12 for 10 the data relating to e understood that the field device 10 is generally capable of analysis. It should be underood ha th e ter network 18. In one communicating with other devices connected to the computer network 18. In one embodiment, the field device 10 includes an analyte detector 20 and a data coder/decoder (codec) 22. The analyte detector 20 is a transducer, such as an electronic nose, capable of detecting the presence of an analyte 16 and then generating certain sensory data ofdetecing he presence o signature specifc to the detected analyte. The analyte corresponding to a unique output si ture echniques, such as electronic detector 20 may utilize one of many different detection techniqu, such as elctroni nose technology gas chromatography and mass spectrometry etc., to detect the presence nose technology, as choatorahy implementation of an analyte depending on the attendant circumstances. An illustrative imple ti of the analyte detector is disclosed in U.S. Patcnt Application Serial No. 271,873, which of the analyte detector is dised, and hereby incorporated by is now U.S. Patent No. 6,085,576, commonly assigned, reference for all purposes.codec is to encode and decode data The main function ofthe data codec 22 is to encode and decode data exchanged between the field device 10 and the outside world. For example, the data codec 22 receives data from the analyte detector 20 and, after appropriate encoding or codec 22 receives daafo12 via the omnayputer network 18. In other formatting, relays themn to the processor 12 via the computer network 18. In other instances, data coming ftom the processor 12 are decoded by the data codec 22 to allow the data to be used by the field device 10. The data encoding or formatting steps will be described in further details below.

The data communications between the field device 10 and the outside world, such as the processor12, can be either one-way or two-way communication. The field device 10 can act solely as a transmitter capable of only sending data to the pCT/US00/30281 WO 01/33212 processor 12, or alternatively, the field device 10 can act as a transceiver capable of both sending and receiving data from the processor 12. are prefeably located within The analyte detector 20 and the data codec 22 are pref the same housing. The field device 10 can be a portable, handheld device such as the Palm® devices manufactured by 3Com and the Visor@ produced by Handspring. By incorporating the analyte detector 20 and the data codec 22 in a portable, handheld device, a user has the additional ability to operate in a mobile manner This mobility is obviously greatly desirable as the need to detect the presence of analyts often arises in limiting environments where cable, phone or other pre-installed communication outlets are not readily available or accessible. In one embodiment, the analyte detector 20 i described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 271,873, which is now U.S. Patent No.

d an he y i c r o ae o^ 6,085,576, commonly assigned, and hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

As described therein, the analyte detector 20 is integrated into a hand-held device thereby permitting a user to conduct the analyte detection in a mobile manner.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the data codec 22 can be located on a gateway such as a computer, connected to the computer network 18. Under this configuration, the field device 10 sends the captured analyte data to the gateway and the data codec 22 processes the data and forwards them to the processor 12 via the computer network 18 The processor 12 includes a data codec 22 and an analyte analyzer 26.

Similar to the data codec 22 in the field device 10, the function of the data codcc 22 in the processor 12 is to encode and decode data exchanged between the processor 12 and the outside word12. tor examole, the data codec 22 receives data from the field device 10 via outside world Fo decodes the data into a format which can be the computer network 18 and processes or o the data nto a f t c cn understood by the analyte analyzer 26; similarly, the data codec 22 can also format or encode data so as to allow the processor 12 to transmit them to the field device 10. In other instances, the data codec 22 also encodes or decodes the data so as to allow such data to be exchanged between the processor 12 and the electronic database 14.

The analyte analyzer 26 is capable of performing aalysis on a detected analyte. Using data stored in the electronic librar 14 and after appropriate frmatting by the data codec 22, the analyte analyzer 26 compares data received from the field device with data retrieved from the electronic database 14 to identify the identity of the detected analyte. The results of the analysis can then be formatted by the data codec 22 for posting onto the electronic library 14. In addition, the results can be made available to for potig ntoth ::ctonc :i 22y14 PCTUS00/3OZ 8 WO 01/33212 the field device 10 in a number of ways. For example, the processor 12 can directly send the results back to the field device 10 via the computer network 18, or, the results can be formatted in HTML and displayed on a web page which can then be accessed by the field formatted in HTML and di device 10 to retrieve the results.

S The analyte analyzer 26 uses a number of pattern recognition algorithms to compare the output signature of the detected unknown analyte to the signatures of known analytes. Many of the algorithms are neural network based algorithms. A neural network analytes. May ofthe algorithms are nnfnan has an input layer, processing layers and an output layer. The information in a neural network is distributed throughout the processing layers. The processing layers are made up of nodes that simulate the neurons by its interconnection to their nodes.

n operation when a neural network is combined ith a sensor array, the sensor data is propagated through the networks. In this way, a series ofvector matrix multiplications are performed and unknown analytes can be readily dentified and determined. The neural network is trained by correcting the false or undesired outputs from a given input. Similar to statistical analysis revealing underlying patterns in a collection of data, neural networks locate consistent patterns in a collection of data, based on predetermined criteria.

Suitable pattern recognition algorithms include, but are not limited to, principal component analysis (PCA), Fisher linear discriminant analysis (FLDA), soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA), K-nearest neighbors (KNN), neural networks, genetic algorithms, fuzzy logic, and other pattern recognition algorithms. In a preferred embodiment, the Fisher linear discriminant analysis FLDA) and canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) and combinations thereof are used to compare the output signature and the available data from the electronic library. The operating principles of various algorithms suitable for use in the present invention are disclosed (see, Shaffer el al., Analytica Chimica Acta, 384, 305-317 (1999)), the teaching of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In order to determine which pattern recognition algorithm is optimal for the analysis of a particular detected analyte, the processor 12 is trained using various sets of training data. The subject of training devices for classification or identification purposes for one or more substances capable of producing sensory information is covered by a series of patent applications, U.S. atent Application Serial No. 60/188,589, filed on March 10, 2000, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 60/188,5, filed on March 10, 2000, PCT/US00/30281 WO 01/33212 and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 60/188,569, filed on March 10, 2000, all commonly owned, and hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

With respect to the electronic library 14, it generally contains signatures for various known analytes and other relevant information pertaining to these analytes.

The electronic library 14 can be composed of a number ofdifferent databases. These databases can be located in one central repository, or alternatiely, they can be dispersd among various distinct physical locations. These databases can e ategorized and structured in various ways based on the needs and criteia of the database designer. For example, the data can be organized in a database using field descriptors Field descptors can include the sample name, type of data etc. Possible types of data include training data, identification data, or quality control data. As another example, a first database may contain data relating to variou types of analytes collected using the same detection technique under a standardized set of conditions, and a second related database may contain miscellaneous information correlating to data contained in the first database; more specifically, a first database may contain aroma data for various types of wines, and a second database may contain additional information for each type of wine idcntified in the first database such as the vineyard, type of wine, year of bottling, etc. Alternatively, a database may contain data specific to one particular analyte with such data collected using different detection techniques. Methods used to create and organize databases are commonly known in the art, for example, relational database techniques can be used to logically connect these databases.es comprising the In one embodiment, as shown in Fig. the databases comprising the electronic library 14, or a portion thereof, can be physically located separate from the processor 12. These databases can reside on remote, distant servers on a local area network or the Internet. Under this arrangement, whenever any data are needed, the processor 12 needs to access the necessary database(s) ia a communication channel to retrieve the requisite data for analysis. For example, the processor 12 can access and retrieve data from a remote database via a computer network such as a LAN or the Internet.

Fig. 6 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example which should not limit the scope of the claims herein. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many other variations, modifications, and alternatives. In this embodiment, the electronic library 14 is located on the same machine as the processor 12. For example, the processor 1 can reside on a server 28 hosting a PCT/USOO/3 0 281 WO 01/33212 WO 01/33 2 sim reside on the sam e server 28. W ith this website and the electronic library 14 can similarly reside on the same serer 28. With this arrangement, the electronic library 14 and the data contained theein are readily accessible for use by the processor 12. s The data in the electronic library 14 can be stored in a number of different formats. For example, the data can be formatted into HTML documents which can then be made accessible on the Internet from any remote location.

Since data are constantly provided to the electronic library 14 during Since data are constantly Pro< I operation of the present invention, the electronic library 14 may need to be updated on a operation of the present inven ic library 14 manageable. Various schemes periodic basis to keep the size of the electronic library 14 manageable. Various schemes can be used to upd the electronic library 14. In one scheme, the older data are 0 carn bded ater to update thermned eriod of time. In another scheme, the older data arc discarded after some predetermined pen o f averaged and then compressed on a regular basis so as to make room for the more recently captured data. In yet another scheme, the more recent data are stored in the database only when such data represent an exception or deviation.

A number of different technologies can be used to implement the communications between the field device 10, the processor 12 and the electronic librar 14. As to communications between the field device 10 and the processor 12, such 14. As to communicationsbetcen therk 18. In order to provide a communications can be conducted via a computer network 18. in order to provide a physical connection to the outside world for the transmission of captured analyte data, the field device 10 includes a communication interface 24 that is capable of being coupled to the computer network 18. The communication interface 24 may include an Ethernet interface, an RS-2 32 interface, a parallel port, a universal serial bus (USB), an infrared data link, an optical interface, or an R interface. The computer network 18 can be ne of a variety of networks including a worldwide computer network, an internet, the Internet a WAN, a LAN or an intranet. It should be understood that conventional access to the computer network is conducted through a gateway (not shown). A gateway is a machine, for example, a computer, that has a communication address recognizable by the computer network.

network. The field device 10 can comunicate with the computer network 18 via The field device 10 can commun or wired technologies. Wireless the communication interface 24 using either wireless or wired technologies. Wireless technologies may include infrared, radio waves, satellite and microwaves. Wired technologies may include cables and modems.

Fig. 2 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention This diagram is merely an example which should not limit the scope of the claims herein. One pCTirtSuo3O/ 28 1 WO 01/33212 of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many other variations, modifications, and alternatives. As shown therein, the field device 10 can be detachably coupled to a docking device 30 which, in turn, is connected to a gatewayon the computer network 18.

Fig. 3 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention. This Fig. 3 illustrates yet another embf diagram is merely an example which should not limit the scope of the claims herein. One diagram is merely an example which should nov modifications, and of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many other variation, icateons, an alternatives. As shown therein, field devices 10 may be able to communicate another directly. In this device-to-device type of communication, infrared signals are generally used. communications between the rocessor 12 and the electronic library 0 4, such communications can also be conducted via a computer network 18 or other 14, such communications can alsothe processor 12 also includes a communication links such as a modem. Similarly, the processor 12 also includes a communication interface 24 to allow the processor 12 to communicate with other devices.

Also, as mentioned above, depending on various requirements, the electronic librar 14 can reside on the same machine as the processor 12, thereby reducing communication overhead and costs.

The field device 10 generally performs the following steps before the captured analyte data are delivered to the computer network 18 for transmission:

(I)

capturing analyte data in analog form; converting the analog data into digital data; (3) encoding digital data into an analysis format; encoding data in analysis format into a TCP/IP format; and encoding data in TCP/IP format into a specific network data format. 1 enerall performs the following At the receiving end, the process rk data format; (2) steps to decode the encoded data: receiving data in specific netwr data f decoding the received data into TCP/IP format; and decoding the data in TCP format into an analysis format. with reference to Figs 4 and Details of these steps will now be described ernce o Figs. 4 Fig. 4 illustrates the various data encoding formats needed to onert the analog dat2.

from the detected analyte into a transmissible format for transmission to the processor 12.

from the detected analyteit the scope of the claims herein.

This diagram is merely an example which should not limit the scope of t cais iand One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize any other variations, modifications, and alternatives. At step 100, analog data from the detected analyte are first captured by the analyte detector 20 in the field device 10. The analyte detector 20 acting as a transducer then convert the analog data into digital signals at step 120. At step 140, the digital PCTUS00/30281 WO 01/33212 signals are encoded into an analysis format which can be understood by the analyte analyzer 26. This format can be either proprietary or well-known Any format can be used as long as the analyte analyzer 26 is capable of handling such format. While it is not necessary that the format used by the field device 10, the processor 12, and the electroni library 14 must be the same, a standardized format is preferred since format-conversion overhead can be saved. At step 160, the formatted data are further encoded into a format which can be transmitted over the computer nework 18, such as the TCPIP format. This step 160 is important if the formatted data are to be sent to the processor 12 via a computer network 18, such as the Intemet, which contains numerous sub-networks having different network data formats. At step 180, the data in TCP/IP format are encoded into the specific network data format which the gateway to the computer network 18 can understand.

Fig. 5 illustrates the various data decoding formats needed to convert the transmitted data received from the field device 10 to permit analysis by the processor 12.

This diagram is merely an example which should not limit the scope of the claims herein.

15TThidigrmis e reseant entn e u ther variations, modifrcaions, and One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many other variations, modifications, and alternatives. At step 200, data transmitted from the field device 10 via the computer network 18 are received by the gateway in a network data format specific to the gateway.

At step 220, the data in the network data format are decoded into the TCP/IP format. At step 240, the data in TCP/IP format are further decoded into an analysis format which can be used by the analyte analyzer 26 for analysis.

The present invention can be used in a number of different ways. In one mode of operation, a user first uses the field device 10 to capture information on an unknown analyte 16, and then relays the captured information to the processor 12 for analysis. More specifically, the analyte detector 20 is used to detect the presence of an unknown analyte 16. Thee analyte detector 20 then accordingly generates a unique output signature for this unknown analyte 16. The unique output signature is next relayed to the data codec 22 and encoded for transmission to the processor 12.

The data codec 22 in the processor 12 accepts the output signature from the field device 10 and then, after appropriate processing, passes it onto the analyte analyzer 26 for analysis. Depending on the detection technique used to detect the unknown analyte 16 and other relevant information which can be provided by the user, the processor 12 accesses the electronic library 14 retrieving the pertinent data corresponding to the signatures of various known analytes. The analyte analyzer 26 then PCT/US00/30281 WO 01/33212 compares the output signature with these known signatures to ascertain the identity of the compares the output signature wi e field detected analyte. If desired, the results of the comparison are transmitted to the field device 10 from the processor 12 for use by the user. Alternatively, the results of the comparison can be posted onto a web page for retrieval by the field device Optionally, if the output signature of the detected analyte is determined to be not currently included in the electronic library 14, the processor 12 can then appropriately update the electronic library 14 to reflect the new output signature and its accompanying information. aks.

For example, the present invention can be used to detect chemical leaks.

Data relating to the harmful chemical are captured by the field device 10 and relayed to the processor 12. The processor 12 compares the captured data to data available from the electronic library 14 to ascertain the identity of the chemical. Results of the comparison are then sent to the field device 10 to enable the user to initiate the necessary remedia measures, if any, to limit further damage. Optionally, in the event that the identity of the chemical cannot be determined using the data currently existing in the electronic library 1 5 chemical cannot be determindiscovery of this 14, the processor 12 will update the electronic library 14 to reflect the discovery of this "new" chemical for future identification.

In another mode of operation, field devices 10 are capable of ommunicating and exchanging data with one another usg their respective communication interfaces 24. The primary purpose here is to allow sharing of data between the two devices 10. In the event that multiple field devices 10 (employing the same detection technique) are used to detect the same unknown analyte, data collected from these devices 10 can be used by the processor 12 for calibration purposes to provide for any use-to-use variability of a field device In another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 6, the field device 10 can be a remote computer capable of connecting to the Internet, the processor 12 can be an interactive website residing on a remote server 28 connected to the Internet, and the electronic library 14 can be located on the same remote server 28 In a mode of operation in accordance with this embodiment, the user uses the field device 10 to retrieve information for certain analytes which are similar or related to a known, desired analyte.

More specifically, the user enters the relevant information for the desired anayte into the field device 10. The field device 10, via the communiaton interfae 24, transmits the entered information to the processor 12. The processor 12 processes the entered pCTIUS00130 2 8 1 WO 0133212 corresponding signature for information and retrieves from the electronic library 14 the correspondin signature for the desired analyte.

theaing retrieved the corresponding signature, the processor 12 then Having retrieved f analytes which are similar or searches the electronic library 14 to identify a group of the corres which are signature with related to the analyte desired by the user by comparing the other known signatures.

ther kn dditional information oncering each analyte within this identified Additional information conce ng The identity of each analyte group can be retrieved from other databases, if necessary. The identi of each antly rowithin the identified group and all the accompanying information are subsequently within the identified group 10 for use by the user. Optionally, other information transmitted to the field device 10the idusertified group f analytes entered by the user can be used to narrow the identiied goue store to help For example, the present invention an be used in a wine re to consumers identify a wine list based on their personal tastes and preferncesfore, an to different tastes, most wines also have their own information can be electronic library storing data on wine aromas and other e and cn roi created. If a consumer has previously enjoyed a particular wine and can provide sufficient information about that wine, the present invention can be used to list of comparable wines which the consumer may sm olar n fators such as country of ca b. e further narrowed based on other invention, this wine list can be fher naseon origin, price, availability, shipping costs, and prior selections, etc.n.

T

Fig. 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the present invention. This iagr is n ample which should not limit the scope of the claims herein. One diagram is merely an exaple whi many other variations, modifications, and of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many other r12, such as the alternatives. As shown therein, certain components of the processor aematves. hth inthe field device 10. The analyte analyzer 26 is analyte analyzer 26, can reside wthinnd the field device included within the field device 10 as opposed to the processor an the e ee further includes a data storage area 32. With this particular configuration, the present terincudestio a orated teooing manner. The user enters a request 34 into the invention may be operated in the following m nn. The field device field device 10 for data relating to certain specified, known analytes. T i evie then transmits the request 34 to the processor 12 The processor 12, in turn, retrieves the relevant data from the electronic library 14 in accordce t fthe requested data, he forwards the requested data to the field device 10. Upon receipt t e r eete e field device 10 stores them in a data storage area 32 for subsequent use. When the field device 10 ssto et n unknown analyte 16, data in the data storage area 32 are device 10 is used to detect an unknown analte WO 01133 2 1 2 pCT[USOO/30281 readily available for use by the analyte analyzer 26 to compare and identify the detected aBy having the analyte analyzer 26 and the data storage area 34 incorporated into the field device 10, the time required for analysis can be shortened. For example, prior to entering a particular area, if the user knows that there is a relatively high probability of presence of certain known analytes in that area, the user can download the signatures of these known analytes onto the field device 10 ahead of time. With the signatures readily available within the field device 10, the output signature of the detected analyte 16 can be compared against these known signatures first. Therefore, there may not be a need to connect to the processor 12 thereby allowing the analysis to be performed more quickly. Connection to the processor 12 only needs to be made when none of the downloaded signatures matches with that of the detected analyte 16.

The present invention can be used in many different applications. In certain embodiments, the system of the present invention can be used for monitoring medical conditions and disease processes. For instance, WO 98/29563, published July 9, 1998, and incorporated herein by reference, discloses a method for monitoring conditions in a patient wherein a sample is obtained from a patient over a period of time. The samples are then flowed over a gas sensor and a response is measured. Thereafter, the response is correlated with known responses for known conditions. The conditions include, but are not limited to, the progression and/or regression of a disease state, bacterial infections, viral, fungal or parasitic infections, the effectiveness of a course of treatment and the progress of a healing process.

In certain instances, the patient is in a nursing home, primary residence or hospital. The patient uses the field device 10 to capture data on an analyte such as, but not limited to, a breath sample, which the patient provides. The data on the breath sample can be optionally transmitted over the Internet or intranet to the processor 12 and then be subsequently analyzed or read by a medical professional at a health company, doctors office or hospital. Using the system of the present invention, real time home health management is realized.

In certain aspects, the analyte data, such as olfaction data, vital signs and any other symptoms of the patient are transmitted to a second location. The data can then be analyzed and the medical condition and disease process monitored. Thereafter, the patient can access the diagnostic information on a private Web site for further instructions and treatment.

pCIUSOO/3O 281 WO 01133212 In other aspects, the system of the present invention can be used for onit g chronic diseases which generall have associated with them distinctive odors monitoring chronic diseases which generally monitoring or smells. For example, the system of the present invention can be used for monito or smells. Forexaminstb WO 98/39470, published medical conditions in a respiring subject. For instance, WO 98/39470, publshed September 11, 1998, and incorporated herein byreference, discloses a method for detecting the occurrence of a condition in a respiring subject. The method comprises detecting the occurrence or co sensing device, detecting certain species introducing emitted respiratory gases to a gas ss ig de ithc certain conditions present in the gasand correlating the presence of the species with certain conditions.

A wide variety of conditions can be ascertained using this aspect of the present invention. These conditions include, but are not limited to, halitosis, ketosis, yeast infections, gastrointestinal infections, diabetes, alcohol, phenylketonuia, pnemonia, nd lung infectons. Those of skill in the art will know of other conditions pneumonia, and lunglet method and system of the present invention.

and diseases amenable to the method and system of the present invention be In yet another embodiment, the system of the present invention can be used for onitong condition and disease processes in female patients. For instance, WO 99/09407, published February 25, 1999, and incorporated herein by reference, discloses a method for detecting the occurrence of a condition in a female patient comprising obtaining a sample of gaseous or volatile substance from the vaginal region of the patient, detecting the gas and correlating the detection with the occurrence of a condition. A wide variety of conditions can be ascertained using this aspect of the presnt invention. These conditions include, but are not limited to, cervical cancer, ovarian ors, uterine cancer, HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, cytomegalovirus, yeast infections, pregnancy and Chlamydia.sent invention can be In still yet another embodiment, the system of the present invention can be used for monitoring conditions and disease processes using a device that affixes to a portion of the skin on a subject. For instance, WO 99/09408, published February 1999, and incorporated herein by reference, discloses a method for detecting a condition of a subject with a device that is adapted to be affixed to the subject and having a gas ofsensing means disposed so as to detect gases and volatile species emanating from a portion of the skin. A wide variety of conditions can be ascertained using this aspect of 3 0 porti o n o f t h e s k in. r not limit ed t o sk i n ca n c er the present invention. These conditions include, but are not limited to, skin cancer, diabetes, heart disease, heavy metal in the subject and drugs.

Fig. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present embodiment. This diagram is merely a example which should not limit the scope claims herein. One diagram is merely an example which should not PCT/US00/30281 WO 01/33212 of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many other variations, modifications, and alternatives. As shown therein, the present invention includes an analyte synthesizer or dispenser 36. The analyte synthesizer 36 is a device which is capable of synthesizing or dispensing analytes based on input information and parameters. The analyte synthesizer/dispenser 36 can be coupled to the fied device 10 to receive the relcvant analyte information. A conventional analyte synthesizer is the "iSmell T M synthesizer, or personal scent synthesizer available from Digiscents (Oakland California). The iSme ll Ti synthesizer is a software-controlled computer peripheral device that is capable of emitting a broad range of fragrances, smells and aromas using a combination and synthesis of primary odorants. embodiment maybe used in the following manner. The signature of This embodiment may be use nthesizerdispenser 36 a known analyte is relayed by the field device 10 to the analyte synthesizer/dispenser 36 and thereafter the known analyte is reconstructed to produce either the actual fragrance, aroma, scent, or smell or a simulated version thereof. In addition, other analytes which are similar to the known analyte can also be reconstructed to offer a wider range of selection.thesizerdispenser 36 an be This embodiment including the analyte synheer/disenser 36 can be used for various purposes. For example, an electronic library 14 can contain signatures of a myriad of consumer products including, but not limited to, perfumes, cigars, liquor, coffee, cosmetics, lipsticks, obacco and wine. Using the system of the present invention, a consumer can, for example, physically smell a reconstructed sample of a particular brand of perfume having a characteristic signatur and if the consumer enjoys this brand of perfume, it is possible to suggest and then synthesize other perfumes with similar signatures that the consumer may also enjoy to provide a wider consumer choice.

The present invention can further bc used for medical purposes, for example, delivering an odorant for inhalation via a computer network so as to stimulate the male sexual response. As described in U.S. Patent No. 5,885,614, which issued to Hirsch, on March 23, 1999, the use of odorants are useful for inducing or enhancing an Hirsch, on March 23, 19, emale vasculogenic impotence. As erection, and as aids for a non-invasive treatment oc c i e As described therein, the administration of odorants for inhalation by a male individual having a normal olfactory ability effectively increased penile blood flow from about 2and enhanced sexual arousal. Preferred odorants are those that provided a 20-40% increase in blood flow to the penis, which includes lavender, oriental spice, cola and orange, and odorant mixtures of lavender and pumpkin pie, doughnut and black licorice, pCTIUSO0130281 O are useful as adjuvant 0to augment penile blood flo and as aids in t he odorant of male impotence and to enhance sexual arousal and pumpkin Pie -ads in the treatment of male The signature of the desired blood f lo w and as ithout sexual dysfunction. spensr 36. The in normal males, those without sexual dysfunction. Thesiegnature of the desired in normal mal i thes Internet to analyte o the male by inhalation.

odorant is transmitted via thesiznternet to te analyeor dispensed erein, the method desired odorant is thereafter synthesized andor dispensed to the male by inhalation.

It is understood that, based on the disclosure provide d in connthe ethod of the present invention, portions thereof, and the functionality described in cothe art.ion inted n many dirent ways its functionalit an e mbodiment, the method of the present invention and its functionality therewi m n the method o .ing techniques in a In an exemplary computer codes and/or software prog r a m en inenion are d lar ilemented using m other ways of implementing the pres Hmodular mann owever, many of rdinary skill in the art.

avilabl as should be apparent to a person embodiments described herein It is also understood that the examples andhanges in light are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or cluded within the are for illustrative suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the thereofwill e of this application and scope of the appended claims All publications S patetS and patent applications herein are hereby incorporated by reference for all patents, and pater ntire purposes in their entirety.

Claims (53)

1. A system comprising memory including a computer code product for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an analyte from a first device to a second device, said memory comprising: a code directed to capturing analyte data pertaining to said analyte using said first device; a code directed to transmitting said analyte data via a computer network to said second device; a code directed to encoding said analyte data into a transmissible format for transmission via said computer network to said second device; a code directed to decoding said analyte data in said transmissible format; and a code directed to directing said second device to perform an analysis on said S.analyte data. wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to 15 said first device via said computer network.

2. A system according to claim 1 wherein said code directed to encoding further comprises: i a code directed to capturing said analyte data in an analog format; a code directed to converting said analyte data in analog format into a digital 20 format; o:rma a code directed to encoding said analyte data in digital format into an analysis o• format; a code directed to encoding said analyte data in analysis format into TCP/IP format; and a code directed to encoding said analyte data in TCP/IP format into a network- specific data format. 004785791

3. A system according to claim 1, wherein said code directed to decoding further comprises: a code directed to decoding said analyte data in a network-specific data format into TCP/IP format; and a code directed to decoding said analyte data in TCP/IP format into an analysis format.

4. A system according to claim 1, further comprising a code directed to retrieving signatures of known analytes from an electronic library. A system according to 4, further comprising a code directed to analysing said analyte data using said retrieved signatures.

6. A system according to claim 5, wherein said codes directed to retrieving and analysing respectively are executed by said second device.

7. A system according to claim 4, wherein said electronic library includes S""••one or more databases. 15 8. A system according to claim 5, further comprising a code directed to displaying result of execution of said code directed to analysing on a web page.

9. A system according to claim 4, further comprising a code directed to updating said electronic library with said analyte data; wherein said code directed to updating is executed by said second device. 20 10. A system according to claim 1, wherein said transmission of said analyte data is conducted via wireless communications.

11. A system according to claim 10, wherein said wireless communications are implemented using communications technologies selected from a member of a group consisting of infrared technology, satellite technology, microwave technology and radio wave technology.

12. A system according to claim 1, wherein said transmission of said analyte data is conducted via wired communications. 004785791 21

13. A system according to claim i, wherein said computer network is selected from a member of a group consisting of a worldwide computer network, an internet, the Internet, a wide area network, a local area network, and an intranet.

14. A system according to claim 1, wherein said first device is a handheld device. A system according to claim 1, wherein said analyte data is olfaction data.

16. A system according to claim 1, wherein said system is used in an application selected from a group consisting of hospital/medical applications, fire safety monitoring, environmental toxicology, remediation, biomedicine, material quality control, food monitoring, agricultural monitoring, heavy industrial manufacturing, ambient air monitoring, worker protection, emissions control, product quality testing, oil/gas petrochemical applications, combustible gas detection, H 2 S monitoring, hazardous leak detection, emergency response and law enforcement applications, explosives detection, utility and power applications, food/beverage/agriculture 15 applications, freshness detection, fruit ripening control, fermentation process monitoring S: and control, flavor composition and identification, product quality and identification, •i refrigerant and fumigant detection, cosmetic/perfume applications, fragrance formulation, chemical/plastics/pharmaceuticals applications, fugitive emission Si.i identification, solvent recovery effectiveness, anesthesia and sterilization gas detection, 20 infectious disease detection, breath analysis and body fluids analysis.

17. A system including memory and computer codes for detecting and transferring analyte data, said system comprising: o.oo a code directed to capturing said analyte data using a first device or a second device; a code directed to converting said analyte data into a transmissible format; a code directed to transmitting said converted analyte data in said transmissible format from said first device or said second device; and a code directed to receiving said transmitted data in said transmissible format using said first device or said second device; 004785791 22 wherein said first device and said second device are functionally equivalent and wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network.

18. A system according to claim 17, wherein said transmission of said converted analyte data is conducted via wireless communications.

19. A system according to claim 17, wherein said wireless communications are implemented using infrared technology. A system including memory and computer codes for identifying an analyte, said system comprising: a code for capturing at a first location data pertaining to said analyte whose identity is unknown; a code for transmitting said data from said first location via a computer network; a code for receiving said data at a second location; and a code for comparing said received data at said second location to data pertaining 15 to known analytes, thereby identifying said analyte and wherein said second location resides on a server communicatively connected to S• said first device via said computer network.

21. A system according to claim 20, further comprising a code for retrieving 0said data pertaining to known analytes from an electronic library. 20 22. A system according to claim 20, further comprising a code directed to updating said electronic library with said received data.

23. A system according to claim 20, further comprising a code directed to making result of execution of said code for comparing available at first location.

24. A system including memory and computer codes for delivering analyte data, said system comprising: a code directed to receiving a request from a user using a first device, the user requesting data of a known analyte; 004785791 23 a code resident at a second device and directed to retrieving data of said known analyte from an electronic library; said second device being resident on a server, and a code directed to transmitting said retrieved data to said user via a computer network on which said server is resident.

25. A system according to claim 26, further comprising a code directed to synthesizing said known analyte using said retrieved data.

26. A system according to claim 26, further comprising: a code directed to retrieving data of analytes which are similar to said known analyte from said electronic library; a code directed to transmitting said retrieved data of analytes which are similar to said known analyte to said user via said computer network; and a code directed to synthesizing said analytes which are similar to said known •analyte using said retrieved data thereof.

27. A system including memory and computer codes for delivering medicine 15 to a patient at a remote location, said system comprising: a code directed to identifying needs of said patient at said remote location; a code directed to transmitting information relating to said needs to a processor via a computer network; a code directed to receiving from said processor information in response to said needs; and a code directed to using information received from said processor to synthesize or dispense said medicine to satisfy said needs of said patient wherein said code directed to identifying includes a code directed to capturing information relating to said needs using a field device, and wherein said field device includes an analysing unit configured to analyse the captured information relating to said needs as obtained from said patient, based on the information received from said processor. 004785791 24

28. A method performed over a computer network for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an analyte from a first device to a second device, said method comprising: capturing analyte data pertaining to said analyte using said first device; transmitting said analyte data via a computer network to said second device wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network encoding said analyte data into a transmissible format for transmission via said computer network to said second device; decoding said analyte data in said transmissible format; and directing said second device to perform an analysis on said analyte data.

29. A method according to claim 30 further comprising: Scapturing said analyte data in an analog format; :converting said analyte data in analog format into a digital format; encoding said analyte data in digital format into an analysis format; encoding said analyte data in analysis format into TCP/IP format; and encoding said analyte data in TCP/IP format into a network-specific data format.

30. A method according to 31, wherein decoding further comprises: decoding said analyte data in a network-specific data format into TCP/IP format; 20 and decoding said analyte data in TCP/IP format into an analysis format.

31. A method according to claim 30, further comprising retrieving signatures of known analytes from an electronic library.

32. A method according to claim 33, further comprising analysing said analyte data using said retrieved signatures. 004785791

33. A method according to claim 34, wherein retrieving and analysing respectively are executed by said second device.

34. A method according to claim 30, wherein retrieving signatures from the electronic library includes accessing one or more databases.

35. A method according to claim 33, further comprising displaying result of execution of said code directed to analysing an analyte on a web page.

36. A method according to claim 33, further comprising updating said electronic library with said analyte data; wherein said code directed to updating is executed by said second device.

37. A method according to claim 30, wherein transmitting said analyte data is conducted via wireless communications. b 0: 38. A method according to claim 39, wherein said wireless communications are implemented using communications technologies selected from a member of a group :•:consisting of infrared technology, satellite technology, microwave technology and radio 15 wave technology.

39. A method according to claim 30, wherein transmitting said analyte data is conducted via wired communications. A method according to claim 30, wherein said computer network is °-selected from a member of a group including a worldwide computer network, an internet, 20 the Internet, a wide area network, a local area network, and an intranet.

41. A method according to claim 30, wherein capturing of analyte data is :.i o performed by a handheld device.

42. A method according to 30, wherein the analyte data captured is olfaction data.

43. A method according to claim 30 used in an application selected from a group consisting of hospital/medical applications, fire safety monitoring, environmental toxicology, remediation, biomedicine, material quality control, food monitoring, agricultural monitoring, heavy industrial manufacturing, ambient air monitoring, worker 004785791 26 protection, emissions control, product quality testing, oil/gas petrochemical applications, combustible gas detection, H 2 S monitoring, hazardous leak detection, emergency response and law enforcement applications, explosives detection, utility and power applications, food/beverage/agriculture applications, freshness detection, fruit ripening control, fermentation process monitoring and control, flavor composition and identification, product quality and identification, refrigerant and fumigant detection, cosmetic/perfume applications, fragrance formulation, chemical/plastics/pharmaceuticals applications, fugitive emission identification, solvent recovery effectiveness, anesthesia and sterilization gas detection, infectious disease detection, breath analysis and body fluids analysis.

44. A method performed over a computer network for detecting and transferring analyte data, comprising: S.000 capturing said analyte data using a first device or a second device; converting said analyte data into a transmissible format; *ooo 15 transmitting said converted analyte data in said transmissible format from said first device or said second device; and receiving said transmitted data in said transmissible format using said first device •or said second device; wherein said first device and said second device are functionally equivalent and S 20 wherein said second device resides on a server communicatively connected to :said first device via said computer network. 0

45. A method according to claim 46, wherein transmitting said converted analyte data is conducted via wireless communications.

46. A method according to claim 46, wherein said transmitting steps are implemented using infrared technology.

47. A method performed over a computer network for identifying an analyte, comprising: 004785791 27 capturing at a first location data pertaining to said analyte whose identity is unknown; transmitting said data from said first location via a computer network; receiving said data at a second location wherein said second location resides on a server communicatively connected to said first device via said computer network; and comparing said received data at said second location to data pertaining to known analytes, thereby identifying said analyte.

48. A method according to claim 49, further comprising retrieving said data pertaining to known analytes from an electronic library.

49. A method according to claim 46, further comprising updating said electronic library with said received data. ~50. A method according to claim 46, further comprising making result of execution available for comparing at first location. *o

51. A method for delivering analyte data, comprising: 15 receiving a request from a user using a first device, the user requesting data of a known analyte; *gee .i retrieving data on a second device resident on a server, said data corresponding to said known analyte from an electronic library; and o transmitting said retrieved data to said user via a computer network on which said o 20 server is resident. o1

52. A method according to claim 55, further comprising synthesizing said known analyte using said retrieved data.

53. A method according to claim 55, further comprising: retrieving data of analytes which are similar to said known analyte from said electronic library; transmitting said retrieved data of analytes which are similar to said known analyte to said user via said computer network; and 004785791 28 synthesizing said analytes which are similar to said known analyte using said retrieved data thereof.

54. A method performed over a computer network for delivering medicine to a patient at a remote location, comprising: identifying needs of said patient at said remote location using code which captures information relating to said needs using a field device; transmitting information relating to said needs to a processor via a computer network; receiving from said processor information in response to said needs; and using information received from said processor to synthesize or dispense said medicine to satisfy said needs of said patient, and 1wherein said field device includes an analysing unit configured to analyse the :0466, captured information relating to said needs as obtained from said patient, based on the information received from said processor.

55. A method according to claim 58, including capturing information relating to said needs using a field device.56.A system comprising memory including a computer code product for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an analyte from a first o #device to a second device substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the °eo• 4 accompanying Figures. 20 57. A system including memory and computer codes for detecting and So transferring analyte data substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.

58. A system including memory and computer codes for identifying an analyte, said system comprising substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.

59. A system including memory and computer codes for delivering medicine to a patient at a remote location substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures. 004785791 29 A system including memory and computer codes for facilitating consumer choice substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.

61. A method for detecting and transferring data pertaining to an analyte from a first device to a second device substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.

62. A method for delivering medicine to a patient at a remote location, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.

63. A method for facilitating consumer choice substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.

64. A method for detecting and transferring analyte data substantially as 6. hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures. .1

65. A method for identifying an analyte substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures. 15 66. A method for analysing data pertaining to a detected analyte substantially Sas hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.