MXPA00009219A - Handheld sensing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A vapor sensing device that is sufficiently small and lightweight to be handheld, and also modular so as to allow the device to be conveniently adapted for use in sensing the presence and concentration of a wide variety of specified vapors. The device provides these benefits using a sensor module that incorporates a sample chamber and a plurality of sensors located on a chip releasably carried within or adjacent to the sample chamber. Optionally, the sensor module can be configured to be releasably plugged into a receptacle formed in the device. Vapors are directed to pass through the sample chamber, whereupon the sensors provide a distinct combination of electrical signals in response to each. The sensors of the sensor module can take the form of chemically sensitive resistors having resistances that vary according to the identity and concentration of an adjacent vapor. These chemically sensitive resistors can each be connected in series with a reference resistor, between a reference voltage and ground, such that an analog signal is established for each chemically sensitive resistor. The resulting analog signals are supplied to an analog-to-digital converter, to produce corresponding digital signals. These digital signals are appropriately analyzed for vapor identification.

Description

HAND SENSORIAL APPARATUS CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUESTS This application is a continuation in part of the US Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 178,443, filed on October 23, 1998 which is a continuation in part of the EU Patent Application Series No. 09 / 045,237, filed March 20, 1998. This application is also a continuation in part of the US Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 141,847, filed on August 27, 1998. This application also claims the benefit of the U.S. Provisional Application Serial No., entitled "Nose-Electronics Device," filed March 3, 1999. All of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the detection and identification of analytes using a portable detector apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to a portable nose-e device (nose-e) held by the hand. An electronic nose is an instrument used to detect vapors or chemical analytes in gases, solutions and solids. In certain cases, the electronic nose is used to simulate a mammalian olfactory system. In general, an electronic nose is a system that has a set of detectors that is used in conjunction with pattern recognition algorithms. Using the combination of chemical detectors, which produce a unique pattern or fingerprint of the vapor or gas, the recognition algorithms can identify and / or quantify the analytes of interest. The electronic nose is thus able to recognize unknown chemical analytes, odors and vapors. In practice, an electronic nose is presented with a substance such as an odor or vapor and the detector converts the input of the substance into a response, such as an electrical response. The response is then compared to known responses that have previously been stored. By comparing the unique chemical identification of an unknown substance to "identifications" of known substances, the unknown analyte can be determined. A variety of detectors can be used in electronic noses that respond to various kinds of gases and odors. A wide variety of commercial applications are available for electronic noses, which include, but are not limited to, toxicology and environmental repair, biomedicine, such as classification or detection of microorganisms, quality control of material, monitoring of agricultural and food products, heavy industrial manufacturing, environmental air monitoring, worker protection, emission control and product quality testing. Many of these applications' require a portable device because they are located in the field or because they are inaccessible to desktop models of large laboratories. Conventionally, most electronic noses have been difficult to handle large laboratory models that can not be used in the field and applications of experimental facilities. If available, a handheld or portable device will provide the portability required for experimental facilities and field locations. Unfortunately, portable chemical detectors that have developed well have many limitations that have maintained them. far from being widely accepted. For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,356,594, which was issued to Neel et al. , describes a portable volatile organic monitoring system designed to be used in the detection of fugitive emissions. The device includes a bar code reader to inventory the emission site. The device contains a single detector sensitive to ionized gas, however the device only detects the amount (ie, concentration) of the volatile compound. The device is unable to identify the volatile organic compound. A) Yes, the device is merely a vapor quantity recorder and not a portable electronic nose. As such, the user is required to know the identity of the vapor to quantify or this information can be stored elsewhere. Another example of a portable device is described in U.S. Patent No. 4,818,348 issued to Stetter. Although this portable device is more sophisticated than the previous example, it still has many limitations. In this case, the device is capable of identifying a gas or vapor, but the applications are quite limited due to the architectural limitations of the detector. The detectors that form the set are permanently fixed and thus, the number and variety of analytes and gases that the device is able to identify is quite small. In addition, because the analyte or vapor that is identified reacts with each detector in the assembly in a different amount, the reproducibility and stability of the device is very limited. These limitations affect the accuracy of the device in the identification of strangers. In view of the foregoing, a need remains in the art for an electronic nose that is portable and, in some cases, hand-held. In addition, a device that is useful in a wide variety of applications and can respond exactly to a wide variety of gases, analytes and fluids is necessary. A vapor detection device is needed that is very versatile, stable and meets the needs of a wide range of industries and users. The present invention fulfills these and other needs. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention relates in general to a device? u ^ detection (also referred to as an electronic nose or an e-nose device). The apparatus is compact and in certain embodiments, it is configured to be a handheld device. The e-nose device can be used to measure, identify (e.g., detect and / or classify) or quantify one or more analytes in a medium such as vapor, liquid, gas, solid and others. Some embodiments of the nose-e device include at least two detectors (i.e., a set of detectors) and, in some other embodiments, from about two to about 200 detectors are in a set and preferably from about 4 to about 50 detectors. They are in the set. The nose-e device is versatile and meets the needs of a wide range of applications in various industries. In certain modalities, the device is designed as a portable handheld thin device with various functionalities. In some other modalities, the device is designed as a portable field tool with full functionality. Typically the nose-e device includes an internal processor to process samples and report data. Optionally, the device can be coupled to a computer, such as a personal computer, to access preparatory and advanced features and to transfer data files. In some embodiments, sections of the nose-e device are disposed within modules that can be installed, replaced and replaced as necessary. For example, the detector module, the optical sampling or nose detector, the battery pack, the filter, the electronics and other components can be modulated, as described below. This modular design increases usability, improves performance, reduces cost and provides additional flexibility and other benefits not available in conventional nose-e devices. A specific embodiment of the invention provides a portable detector apparatus that includes a housing, a detector module, a sampling chamber and an analyzer. The detector module and the analyzer are installed in the housing. The detector module includes at least two detectors that provide a different feature response or identification that can be used to measure, identify, (for example, detect and / or classify) or quantify the analyte (s) present in a test sample. The sampling chamber is defined by the housing or the detector module or both and incorporates an input port and an output port. The detectors are located inside or adjacent to the sampling chamber. The analyzer is configured to analyze a particular response of the detectors and to identify or quantify, based on the particular response, the analytes within the test sample. In a variation of the above embodiment, the housing of the portable sensing apparatus includes a receptacle and the detector module is removably installed in the receptacle of the housing. In this embodiment, the detector module may include one or more detectors. Another specific embodiment of the invention provides a detector module configured to be used with a detector apparatus. The detector module is placed inside a housing defining a receptacle. The detector module includes a cover, a sampling chamber, an input port, an output port, at least two detectors and an electrical connector. The cover is sized and configured to be received in the receptacle of the detector apparatus. The input port is configured to be clisable in a way with a port connection of the detector apparatus when the detector module is received in the receptacle. The input port receives a test sample from the detector apparatus and directs the test sample to the sampling chamber. The output port is configured to download the test sample from the sampling chamber. The detectors are located within or adjacent to the sampling chamber and are configured to provide a different response when exposed to one or more analytes located within the sampling chamber. The electrical connector is configured to be releasably engageable with an electrical coupling connector of the sensing apparatus when the detector module is received in the receptacle. The electrical connector transmits the characteristic signals from the detectors to the detector apparatus. Yet another specific embodiment of the invention provides a portable detector apparatus for measuring the concentration of one or more analytes within a sampling chamber. The sensing apparatus includes two or more chemically sensitive resistors, conditioning circuitry, an analog to digital converter (ADC) and an analyzer. Each chemically sensitive resistor has a resistance that varies according to a concentration of one or more analytes within the sampling chamber. The conditioning circuit is coupled to the chemically sensitive resistors and generates an analogous signal indicative of the resistance of the resistors. The ADC is coupled to the conditioning circuitry and provides a digital signal in response to the analog signal. The analyzer is coupled to the ADC and determines, based on the digital signal, the identity or concentration of the analyte (s) within the sampling chamber. Still another embodiment of the invention provides a portable, handheld vapor detector apparatus that includes a detector module that incorporates a set of steam detector plugs that provide different electrical responses to one or more different vapors. The apparatus includes a portable housing and the detector module optionally can be removably installed in a receptacle formed in the housing. The detector module defines a sampling chamber to which the set of vapor detectors is exposed. The sampling chamber incorporates a steam inlet and a steam outlet and a pump is installed inside the housing to direct a steam sampling from the steam inlet through the sampling chamber to the steam outlet. A monitoring device is also installed within the housing, to monitor the electrical responses of the set of vapor detectors and to produce a corresponding plurality of detector signals. Also, an analyzer is installed within the housing to analyze the plurality of detector signals and to identify any vapor sample directed through the sampling chamber by the pump.

In more detailed aspects of the invention, the portable vapor detector apparatus further includes a controller or processor configured to control the pump either to direct one of a plurality of reference vapors or an unknown vapor sample through the sampling chamber . When the controller is controlling the pump to direct one of the plurality of reference vapors through the sampling chamber, the timing device monitors the electrical responses of the vapor detector array to produce a reference identification. After this, when the controller is controlling the pump to direct the unknown vapor sample through the sampling chamber, the monitoring device monitors the electrical responses of the steam detector array to produce a vapor sample identification. The analyzer then compares the vapor sample identification with a plurality of reference identifications, to identify the unknown vapor sample. In other more detailed aspects of the invention, the sampling chamber of the portable vapor detection apparatus is defined by the detector module, alone, and is sealed from the external environment except for the steam inlet and the vapor outlet. In addition, each detector module includes a plurality of first electrical connectors and a plurality of devices of substantially identical size and shape, the devices together convey the set of vapor detectors and each includes a second electrical connector along an edge thereof. , for the coupling clutch with one of the first electrical connectors. In still further detailed aspects of the invention, the portable vapor detector apparatus further includes an electrical circuit that controls the temperature of the set of the steam detectors. Furthermore, when the detector module is configured to be removably installed in the housing receptacle, the module carries an identifier to identify the vapor detectors it transports and in addition the monitor is configured to read the identifier transported by the detector module received in the receptacle In one embodiment, the detectors are implemented with chemically sensitive resistors that have resistances that vary according to the concentration of one or more prescribed vapors within the sampling chamber. These chemically sensitive resistors are each connected in series with a separate reference resistor, between a reference voltage and a ground, in such a way that an analogous signal is established for each chemically sensitive resistor. An analog-to-digital converter is sensitive to those analog signals and the reference voltage, to produce digital output signals indicative of the resistances of the various chemically sensitive resistors. A multiplexer may be included to sequentially connect the various analog output signals to the analog-to-digital converter. In addition, an analyzer is sensitive to digital output signals, to determine the presence and / or concentration of one or more prescribed vapors within the sampling chamber. Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DIBUOUSES Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an operator using an e-nose device of the invention. Figures 2A and 2B show a perspective view of upper and lower, respectively, of a modality of a napz-e device. Figure 3A shows six perspective views of a modality of another e-nose device. Figure 3B shows four different nose patterns for an e-nose device of Figure 3A. Figure 4 shows a diagram of a modality of the subsystems of the nose-e device. Figure 5 shows an exploded perspective view of some of the main components of the e-nose device of Figure 2A. Figures 6A and 6B show a schematic perspective view of two embodiments of the mechanical sub-system of the napz-e device. Figure 6C shows a schematic perspective view of a filter modality. Figures 7A-7B show a perspective view and a top sectional view, respectively, of one embodiment of a detector module that includes four detector devices installed within two sampling chambers. Figure 7C shows a perspective view of the detector assembly device. Figures 8A and 8B show a perspective view and a top sectional view, respectively, of a mode of another detector module including four-pin detector devices within a single sampling chamber. Figures 9A to 9C show a perspective view, a side sectional view and a partial top sectional view, respectively, of one embodiment of yet another detector module including a device of a single detector assembly. Figure 10 shows various accessories for the nose-e device. Figure 11 shows a perspective view of an e-nose device vertically shown installed in an electrical charging station and coupled to a main computer. Figure 12A shows a diagram of a modality of the electrical circuit inside the napz-e device. Figure 12B shows a mode of a voltage divider network used to measure the resistance of a chemically sensitive resistor. Figure 12C shows a diagram of another embodiment of the electrical circuit inside the nose-e device. Figures 13A to 13G show a modality of suitable flow diagrams of the functional steps performed by the nose-e device when implementing the measurement and analysis procedures. Figure 14 shows a diagram of a modality of the menu selection for the e-nose device. Figure 15 shows a graph of an analysis of the main component of the answers to the series of esters using the portable apparatus of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE SPECIFIC MODALITIES Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an operator using an e-nose device 100 of the invention. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the e-nose device 100 is a portable hand-held instrument for detecting the presence of one or more specific analytes in a particular sample. As used herein, a sample is a unit of a vapor, liquid, solution, gas, solid, or other forms and mixtures thereof, of a substance being analyzed. Thus, a sample includes chemical analytes, odors, vapors and others. The sample may comprise a single analyte or a plurality of analytes. In Figure 1, the e-nose device 100 is used for industrial monitoring and detection, that is, to identify and quantify harmful gas leaks from an industrial valve installation. The nose-e device 100 can also be used for many other applications, as listed below. Figure 2A shows a top perspective view of a modality of an e-nose device 100a. The nose-e device 100a includes an elongate housing 110a having a lower end sized to be grasped and conveniently supported by the hand of an operator. A screen 120a and various button operated control switches 122a to 122c are located on the upper side of the housing, for convenient visualization by the operator. Button-operated switches 122 are used to control the device during its various modes of operation. Screen 120a displays information about such modes of operation and the results of device detections. An optical tubular sampling detector 130a and an exhaust port 134 are provided to respectively receive and discharge samples to be analyzed. The optical sampling detector is also referred to as a nose or cannon. A plug detector module 150a is shown installed in its adapter bushing located in the base of the e-nose device 100a. The operation of the detector module 150a is described below in detail. An electrical connector 126 is located at the lower end of the housing 110a that allows communication with a host computer and the electrical contacts 128 allow the application of external power that could be used to operate the e-nose device and to recharge the rechargeable battery within of the nose-e device. Figure 2B shows a bottom perspective view of the e-nose device 100a. As shown in Figure 2B, an optical sampling detector 130al is secured in place and a second optical sampling detector 130a2 is stored in an elongated cavity 162 located on the underside of the device 100a. An optical sampling detector 130a can be stored when it is not in use and is secured in place in place by a pair of spring latches 164a and 164b. The plug detector module 150a is shown removed from its adapter sleeve 152. Figure 3A shows six perspective views of a modality of another e-nose device 100b. The nose-e device 100b includes a nose 130b, a screen 120b and a set of buttons 124. Similar to the e-nose device 100a, the nose 130b in an e-nose device 100b is removably attached to a housing 110b. A set of connectors 127 allows interconnection with external devices and systems. Figure 3B shows four different nose patterns 130c to 130f. As these examples illustrate, noses can be specially sized to improve performance in specific applications. Figure 4 shows a diagram of a modality of the subsystems of the e-nose device 100. The upper middle part of Figure 4 shows an electrical subsystem 410 and the lower part shows a subsystem 412 (ie, substantially mechanical) that processes test samples. Within subsystem 412, a test sample is received through a nose 430 and is provided to a manifold 440. Similarly, a reference or antecedent sample is received through an intake port 432 and is provided through a filter 436 to the collector 440. The filter 436 may be a blank filter, a carbon filter, or others. The collector 440 directs the test and reference samples to a solenoid 444 that selects one of the samples as the solenoid output. The selected sample is directed through the collector 440 to a detector module 450. The detector module 450 includes at least two detectors that detect analytes in the selected sample. The detector module 450 generates a signal (or an "identification") indicative of the detected analytes and provides this signal to an electrical subsystem 410. The selected sample is then provided from the detector module 450, through the collector 440, through from a pump 460 and to an exhaust port 434. The nose 430, the intake port 432, the exhaust port 434 and the detector module 450 in Figure 4 correspond in general to the nose 130a, the intake port 132, the exhaust port 134 and the detector module 150a in Figure 2A, respectively. Figure 4 shows one embodiment of subsystem 412. Many other components and devices (not shown) can also be included in subsystem 412. Furthermore, it is not necessary that all components and devices shown in Figure 4 be present to practice the present invention . In addition, the components and devices can be installed in different configurations shown in Figure 4. For example, the pump 460 can be coupled to the solenoid output 444 instead of the exhaust port 434. As shown by the embodiment in FIG. Figure 4, an electrical sub-system 410 includes a PCB 470 installation qu. it is interfaced with a display 472, a battery pack 474, a keyboard 476, an analog port 478, an input 480, and switches 482a and 482b. The screen 474 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) and may include backlight control mechanism and (optionally) a tactile tablet. A conLiasL-adjustment mechanism may be provided to adjust the display 472. The electrical subsystem 410 is described in more detail below. Figure 5 shows an exploded perspective view of some of the main components of the e-nose device 100a. Figure 5 also represents an embodiment of a subsystem 412a. In use, the e-nose device 100a is configured to extract a test sample (i.e., in a vapor, liquid, or gas medium) from an ignition site (i.e., the space adjacent to the valve installation in Figure 1) through the optical sampling detector 130a, and to direct this sample through of the plug detector module 150a installed in the adapter sleeve 152. After passing through the detector module 150a, through the ports 512a and 512b, the sample is directed out through the exhaust port 134 to one side of the device . At specific times during the modes of operation of the various devices, a reference sample is attracted to the device through the intake port 132, directed through the detector module 150a and discharged through the exhaust port 134. The device 110a may be formed of molded plastic and includes a lower half 112a and an upper half 112b. Many of the internal components of the device are conveniently and efficiently installed on a printed circuit board (PCB) 510 that extends substantially through the interior volume of the device. A screen 120a is installed on the upper end of the PCB, where it is visible through an opening 520 formed in the upper half of the housing 112a. The button operated control switches 122a to 122c are installed below the screen 120a, in positions where they can extend through correspondingly dimensioned openings 522 formed in the upper half of the housing 112a. A valve installation 540 installed on the underside of the PCB 510 receives the test sample attracted to the e-nose device 100a through the optical sampling detector 130a and the reference sample through the intake port 132. The sample The test sample is directed from the optical sampling detector 130a to the valve installation through a manifold 532 and the clean sample is directed from the intake port 132 to the valve installation through a manifold 534. The valve installation 540 is configured to select one of the two sources, which come through either the optical sampling detector 130a or the intake port 132. From the valve installation 540, the sample of the selected source is directed through a collector 536 through the adapter sleeve 152 to a detector module 150a, which is located on the upper side of the PCB. After analysis by the detector module, the sample is directed through a manifold 538 to a pump 560 located on the underside of the PCB. Finally, the sample is discharged from the device by directing it from the pump 560 through a manifold 562 to the exhaust port 134. Alternatively, the pump 560 may be located in the path between the valve installation 540 and the detector module 150a. In one embodiment, the components that are brought into contact with the sample being processed (including the collectors 532, 534, 536, 538 and 562) are formed of a non-corrosive or inert material, such as Teflon, stainless steel, or Teflon coated metal. The valve installation 540 in Figure 5A generally corresponds to the manifold 440 and solenoid 444 in Figure 4 and the pump 560 corresponds to the pump 460. In certain aspects, the portable apparatus of the present invention includes an optional pre-concentrator. Advantageously, with certain analytes, such as high vapor pressure analytes, the analyte is concentrated on an absorbent. The preconcentrator can be used to increase the concentration of analytes in the test sample Pre-concentrators are traps composed of an absorbent material In use, an absorbent material attracts molecules from the gas sample that are concentrated on the surface of the adsorbent. , the sample eb "desorbed" and analyzed The suitable preconcentrator materials include, but are not limited to, a polymeric adsorbent material, a non-silanized fiberglass, a pore glass fiber or Teflon, and the like. The adsorbent material is packed in a tube, such as a steel tube. During its use, the sample is attracted to the trap that concentrates the components of interest. In some cases, the tube is wrapped with a wire through which current can be applied to heat and thus, desorb the test sample. The sample after this is transferred to the module containing the detectors. The preconcentrator can be arranged in several locations between the optical sampling detector and the detector module. In certain aspects, the pre-concentrator may be placed in the mouthpiece of the device or, alternatively, in the manifold or other convenient location upstream of the detector module. For example, the pre-concentrator can be placed within the valve installation 540, or housed in a unit coupled to the valve installation (not shown in Figure 5). Optionally, additional valves can be installed in the device facilitating pre-concentration and detection. Suitable commercially available adsorbent materials used in preconcentrators include, but are not limited to, Tenax TA, Tenax GR, Carbotrap, Carbopack B and C, Carbotrap C, Carboxen, Carbosieve SIII, Porapak, Spherocarb and combinations thereof. Preferred adsorbent combinations include, but are not limited to, Tenax GR and Carbopack B; Carbopack B and Carbosieve SIII; and Carbopack C and Carbopack B and Carbosieve SIII or Carboxen 1000. Those skilled in the art will know other suitable adsorbents. The operation of the nose-e device 100 is controlled by a processor placed inside an electronic unit 570 installed on top of the PCB 510. The electronic unit 570 further includes one or more memory devices for storing the program codes, data and other configuration information. The electronic unit and control of the nose-e device are described in further detail below. Figure 6A shows an exploded perspective view of a mode of another subsystem 412b. The subsystem 412b includes a manifold 640a installed on a manifold seal plate 642a. The 640a collection includes adjustments to install a valve (or solenoid) 644a, adjustments to install a 650a detector module and adjustments to install a 660a pump. The sample is directed between the diversss sub-installations (e.g., valve 644a, detector module 650a and pump 660a) through the cavities located within manifold 640a and tubes (not shown). The manifold 640a further includes a recessed opening 648a configured to receive a filter 636a. Figure 6B shows a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of yet another subsystem 412c. The subsystem 412c includes a manifold 640b installed on a manifold seal plate 642b through a seal plate seal 644b. The manifold 640b includes settings for installing a valve (or solenoid) 644b and adjustments to install a 660b pump. A filter cartridge 646b is installed on top of the manifold 640b and includes a recessed opening 648b configured to receive a filter element. A filter cover 636b includes a recessed opening 648b and a toning gasket 638b that provides a seal for the filter. The sample is directed between the various sub-stations (e.g., valve 644b and pump 660b) through the cavities located within the manifold 640b and the tubes (not shown). The filter 636, the manifold 640, the valve 644, the detector module 650 and the pump 660 in Figures 6A and 6B correspond to the filter 436, the collector 440, the solenoid 444, the detector module 450 and the pump 460 in the Figure 4, respectively. Figure 6C shows a schematic perspective view of a filter modality. The filter includes a circular base unit 680 having an outer wall 682 and an inner wall 686. A set of small sized openings is placed inside the outer wall 682 to draw the samples towards the filter. An inner circular ring 684 covers inner wall 686 which is placed inside another set of small openings to attract the samples from the filter. A filter material (eg, charcoal) 688 to filter the samples is placed within the space between the walls, interior and exterior. The tonka seal 638b is used to seal the filter. Figures 7A-7B show a perspective view and a top sectional view, respectively, of a mode of detector module 150b including quatio detector devices installed within two sampling chambers 710a and 710b. In Figures 7A-7B, the detector module 150b is depicted as configured for non-removable securing to the PCB, but which alternatively can be configured as a plug module such as the detector module 150a. In a specific embodiment, the detector module 150b incorporates four plug detector assembly devices 720, each including eight chemically sensitive detectors 740. A detector module 150b may include a greater or lesser number of detector assembly devices and each assembly device of detectors may include a greater or lesser number of detectors. The four detector assembly devices 720 are installed vertically in pairs on a board 730. A cover 732 having a pair of elongated holes is secured on the board 730 in such a manner so as to define two separate sampling chambers 710a and 710b, one for each pair of detector assembly devices 720. The detector assembly devices 720 are similar in size and shape and each can be received at any of the four connectors, or receptacles 722, formed on board 730. Figure 7C is a perspective view of a detector assembly device 720. In one embodiment, each detector assembly device 720 includes a set of eight chemically sensitive detectors 740, each providing a particular characteristic response when exposed to a test sample carrying analytes. to be detected. In one embodiment, the detectors are implemented using chemically sensitive resistors that provide particular resistances when exposed to a test sample. A multi-contact electrical connector 742 is located along the lower edge of the detector assembly device 720 and is configured by insertion into one of the four receptacles 722. Suitable detector assemblies of this type are described in the U.S. Patent. No. 5,575,401, issued in the name of Nathan S. Lewis et al. ., entitled "Detector Sets to Detect Fluid Analytes" and is incorporated herein by reference. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various alternative or chemically sensitive devices or detectors may be used. As shown in Figure 7B, the test sample is directed through the detector module 150b from an intake port 750, through two sampling chambers 710a and 710b and to an output port 760. The detector assembly devices 720 are installed in such a way that the test samples move laterally through the exposed chemically sensitive detectors. Baffles 762 and 764 are located at the respective conduction and drag ends of each sampling chamber, to help provide an efficient flow pattern, as shown in Figure 7B. Figures 8A and 8B show a perspective view and a top sectional view, respectively, of a mode of another detector module 150c that includes four plug detector devices 820 within a single cavity or sampling chamber 810. The sampling chamber 810 it is defined, in part, by a cover 832 that is secured on a board 830. This configuration can be designed to provide a longer dwell time for the test sample within the sampling chamber, which may be advantageous in some applications . In the same way as the chemically sensitive detectors included in the detector assembly devices 720 in Figures 7A and 7B, the chemically sensitive detectors included in the detector assembly device 820 in Figures 8A and 8B may take the form of the assemblies described in FIG. the U.S. Patent No. 5,575,401. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that several alternative, chemically sensitive detectors or devices can be made. Figures 9A and 9B show a perspective view and a side sectional view, respectively, of one embodiment of yet another detector module 150d including a single detector assembly device 920. In a specific embodiment, the detector assembly device 920 includes 32 chemically sensitive detectors installed in a two-dimensional grid and installed in a generally horizontal orientation on an adapter bushing 922. Of course, the detector assembly device 920 may include a greater or lesser number of detectors. A screen 924 (see Figures 9B and 9C) overlaps the detector assembly device 920 and in one embodiment, includes a separate aperture 926 that overlaps each chemically sensitive detector. The screen 924 is attached to a cover 932, the combination of which defines a top chamber 934 and a bottom chamber 936. As shown in Figure 9B, the test sample being analyzed is directed from an admission port 950 toward upper chamber 934 and from there through screen 924 to lower chamber 936, where it passes through the chemically sensitive detectors. The test sample then exits through an output port 960. Again, it will be appreciated that several alternate sensors and chemically sensitive devices can be used. The napz-e device of the invention includes a set of detectors and, in certain cases, the detectors are used as described in the U.S. Patent. No. 5,571,401. Various detectors suitable for the detection of analytes include, but are not limited to: surface acoustic wave (SAW) detectors; quartz microbalance detectors; conductive compounds; chemoscientists; metal oxide gas detectors, such as tin oxide gas detectors; organic gas detectors; metal oxide field effect transistor (MOSFET), piezoelectric devices; infrared detectors; agglutinated metal oxide detectors; Access MOSFET Pd; FET metal structures; metal oxide detectors, such as Tuguchi gas detectors; phthalocylamine detectors; electrochemical cells; conductive polymer detectors; catalytic gas detectors; organic semi-conductor gas detectors; solid electrolyte gas detectors; piezoelectpco quartz crystal detectors; and Langmuir-Blodgett film detectors. In a preferred embodiment, the detectors of the present invention are described in the U.S. Patent. No. 5,571,401, incorporated herein by reference Briefly, the detectors described herein are conductive materials and non-conducting materials arranged in a matrix of conductive and non-conductive regions. The non-conductive material can be a non-conductive polymer such as polystyrene. The conductive material can be a conductive polymer, carbon black, an inorganic conductor and the like. The detector assemblies comprise at least two detectors, typically about 32 detectors and in certain cases 1000 detectors. The set of detectors can be formed on a chip using semiconductor technology methods, an example of which is described in the Non-Serial Patent Application (PCT). WO99 / 08105, entitled "Techniques and Systems for Analyte Detection", published February 19, 1999, and incorporated herein by reference. In certain cases, the portable device of the present invention comprises a set of surface acoustic wave (SAW) detectors, preferably polymer coated detectors (SAW). The SAW device contains up to six and typically around four detectors in the set. Optionally, the device includes a pre-concentrator with a heater for sample desorption. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the detectors forming the assembly of the present invention may be formed of various types of detectors such as the set of four above. For example, the detector assembly may comprise a conductive / non-conductive regions detector, a SAW detector, a metal oxide gas detector, a conductive polymer detector, a Langmuir-Blodgett film detector and combinations thereof Figure 10 shows various accessories for the napz-e device. A 1010 box is provided for easy transportation of the napz-e device and its accessories. A power cable 1012 and a carriage wire 1014 can each connect the nose-e device to a power source (i.e., a wall adapter cap or a car lighter) to recharge a rechargeable battery within the device. napz-e These cables also allow the operation of the napz-e device outside the battery. A clamp or pedestal 1016 holds the napz-e device in the desired position. A 1018 battery (original or replacement) allows the e-nose device to be used without connection to the power source. A serial 1020 cable and an analog 1022 cable are used to connect the e-nose device with a personal computer and other test equipment. A stylus 1024 is provided for use with a touch screen. One or more 1030 guns can also be provided as spare parts or for use in a particular set of applications. A sample syringe 1032 can be used for the collection of sampling tests. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the e-nose device 100 shown vertically installed in an electrical charging station 1108 and coupled to a host computer 1110. The charging station 1108 recharges the rechargeable battery of the napz-e device 100 through electrical contacts 128 (see Figures 2A and 2B). The napz-e 100 device is also represented being coupled to a host computer 1110 through a data line 1120. The host computer 1110 can be used to update the nose-e device 100 with various information such as the identity of various target vapors to which the device will be exposed, as well as to recover the information from the device such as the results of the sample analysis of the device. Figure 12A is a diagram of one embodiment of the electrical circuitry within the napz-e device 100. In one embodiment, the electrical circuitry measures the resistors of the chemically sensitive resistor assemblies installed on the detector assembly devices (see Figures 7). to 9) and process those measurements to identify and quantify the test sample. The circuitry is installed, in part, on the PCB and includes a processor 1210, a volatile memory (designated as RAM) 1212, a non-volatile memory (designated as ROM) 1214 and an clock circuit 1216. In the embodiment in the Ludí. i plug detector module 150a is used (see Figures 2A 5), the chemically sensitive resistors are coupled to the electrical circuitry through the electrical coupling connectors 552a and 552b (see Figure 5) which are engaged when the detector module 150a is plugs into the nose device 100a. The chemically sensitive resistors are used to implement detectors that typically have baseline resistance values greater than 1 kilo-ohm (KO). These baseline values may vary as much as ± 50% of overtime. For example, a particular chemically sensitive resistor can have a baseline resistance that varies between 15 KO and 45 KO. This great variability of resistance imposes a challenge in the design of the resistance measurement circuitry. In addition, the ratio of the change in resistance to initial baseline resistance, or? R / R, which is indicative of the concentration of analytes, can be very small (ie, in the order of hundreds of parts by million, or 0.01%). This small amount of change, in the same way, imposes a challenge in the design of the measurement circuitry. In addition, some embodiments of the detector module include multiple chemically sensitive resistors (eg, 32) and it is desirable to measure the resistance values of all resistors with minimal circuit complexity. Figure 12B shows an embodiment of a voltage divider network used to measure the resistance of a chemically sensitive resistor 1220. The chemically responsive resistor (Rch) 1220 is coupled in series to a reference resistor (Rref) 1222 to form a network voltage divider. In one embodiment, a number of voltage divider networks are formed, one network for each chemically sensitive resistor, with each network including a chemically sensitive resistor coupled in series to a corresponding reference resistor. The reference resistors are selected to have a relatively low temperature coefficient. In an alternative embodiment, a single reference resistor is coupled to all chemically sensitive resistors. Referring again to Figure 12A, a power supply 1224 supplies a predetermined reference voltage (Vref) to the voltage divider networks such that small changes in the resistance value of each chemically sensitive resistor cause detectable changes in the output voltage of the electrical network. By appropriately selecting the values of the reference resistors, the electrical current through each chemically sensitive resistor can be limited, for example, to less than about 25 micro-amperes (μA). This small amount of current reduces the amount of noise 1 / f and improves performance. Analog voltages of the divider network resistor are provided through a multiplexer (MUX) 1226 to an analog to digital converter (ADC) 1230. A MUX 1226 selects, in sequence, the chemically sensitive resistors in the detector module. Optionally, a 1228 low noise instrumentation amplifier can be used to amplify the voltage before digitizing, to improve the performance of the ADC and provide increased resolution. In a modality, the ADC 1230 is a sigma-delta ADC of 22 bits (or greater) that has a wide dynamic range. This allows the low noise amplifier 1228 to be set at a fixed gain (ie, using a single high-precision resistor). The commercially available, low cost sigma-delta ADCs can achieve sampling rates as fast as approximately 1 millisecond per channel. In one implementation, the reference voltage provided by the power supply 1224 to the voltage divider networks is also provided to a reference input of the ADC 1230. Internally, the ADC 1230 compares the output voltages of the divider network to this Reference voltage and generates digitized samples. With this scheme, the adverse effects on the output voltages of the divider network due to the variations in the reference voltage are substantially reduced. Digitized samples of the ADC 1230 are provided to the 1210 processor for further processing. The processor 1210 also provides synchronization signals to the MUX 1226 and the ADC 1230. The synchronization for data acquisition can also be provided through a serial link to the ADC and through MUX selection lines. Figure 12C is a diagram of another embodiment of the electrical circuit inside the e-nose device 100. In Figure 12C, four 8-channel multiplexers (MUXes) 1256a to 1256d are provided to add flexibility. The inputs of the MUXes 1256 are coupled to the voltage divider networks (not shown) and to the outputs of the MUXes 1256a to 1256b coupled to four amplifiers 1258a to 1258d, respectively. The selection lines for the MUXes 1256 are controlled by processor. The use of external MUXes offers a low ignition resistance and fast switching times. The outputs of the amplifiers 1258 are coupled to 4 inputs of an ADC 1260. Each amplifier 1258 is a differential amplifier having a reference (ie, inversion) input that is coupled to a digital to analog converter (DAC) 1262. The DC offset of the amplifier is controlled by the processor 1250 by measuring the offset with the ADC 1260 and directing the DAC 1262 to provide an appropriate offset correction voltage. To explain DC drag (ie drag on the baseline resistance of the chemically sensitive resistor) the displacement can be adjusted prior to the current measurement. In addition, the electrical stability is maintained by placing the ADC 1260 on board and using differential MUXes. In the modalities in Figures 12A and 12C, the amplification is used with the voltage divider networks to achieve PPM change detection at the resistance values. It can be shown that a gain of 50 provides detection of unique PPM-increments. In Figure 12C, the amplifiers 1258 also match the signal to be sampled with the natural scale input of the AD1. 1260. The adaptation is made by subtracting the DC component (using DAC 1262) and amplifying the AC component. Thus, it is possible to detect the unique PPM changes even with a baseline resistance that varies by ± 50%. In Figures 12A and 12C, the ADCs used to measure resistance values can be implemented using a high-resolution delta-sigma ADC (ie, 4-channels). The high resolution of the delta-sigma ADC coupled with the detector bypass scheme (s) described above, provides high flexibility and precision. The currently available delta-sigma ADC can provide 20 bits or more of effective resolution at 10 Hz and 16 bits of resolution at 1000 Hz, with power consumption as low as 1.4 m. In one embodiment, the ADC delta-sigma includes the compatibility of differential inputs, programmable amplifiers, chip calibration and peripheral serial inference (SPI). In one mode, the DC internal differential MUXes are configured: (1) with respect to ground to increase the effective resolution of the measurement and (2) configured with respect to the reference voltage for high precision measurements, improved electronic stability and to provide a logometpca measurement mechanism. An ADC status signal indicates when the internal digital filter has been established, thus providing an indication for selecting the next analog channel for scanning. In Figures 12A and 12C, the processors 1210 and 1260 can be implemented as a chip-specific application (ASIC, a digital signal processor (DSP), a controller, a microprocessor, or other circuits designed to perform the functions described herein.) One or more memory devices are provided for storing Program codes, data and other configuration information are installed adjacent to the processor.The appropriate memory devices include a random access memory (RAM), a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a FLASH memory, a read-only memory ( ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), a programmable and electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM) and other memory technologies.The size of the memories depends on the application and can be easily expanded according to In one embodiment, the processor executes the program codes that coordinate various operations of the nose-e device. The program includes the interaction of the software that helps the user to select the modes and methods of operation and to start the tests. After the napz-e device performs a test or operation, the user is presented with concise results optionally. In the mode in which the devices include a processor and a built-in algorithm, complex functions and capabilities can be provided by the device. In other embodiments in which simplified electronics are provided, the complex functions and capabilities of the napz-e device are optionally set and conducted from a host computer using PC-based software. The processors can also be used to provide temperature control for each individual detector assembly device in the detector module. In one implementation, each detector assembly device may include a rear side heater. In addition, the processor can control the temperature of the sampling chambers (e.g., chambers 710a and 710b in Figure 7A) either by heating or cooling 'using a suitable thermoelectric device (not shown). After the processor has collected the data representing a set of variable resistance measurements for a particular unknown test sample, it proceeds to correlate the data with data representing a set of previously collected standards stored in the memory (ie, either RAM 1212 or ROM 1214). This comparison facilitates the identification of analytes present in the sampling chamber and the determination of the quantity or concentration of such analytes, as well as the detection of temporal changes in such identities and quantities. The various LS analytes suitable for identifying analytes and quantifying concentration include principal component analysis, Fischer linear analysis, neural networks, genetic algorithms, fuzzy logic, path recognition and other algorithms. After the analysis is complete, the resulting information is displayed on screen 120 or transmitted to the main computer through the inferred 1232, or both. The identification of analytes and the determination of the concentration of the sample can be fulfilled by an "analyzer". As used herein, the analyzer may be a processor (such as processors 1210 and 1260 described above), a DSP processor, a specially designed ASIC, or other circuits designed to perform the analysis functions described herein. The analyzer can also be a general-purpose processor that executes written program codes to perform the required analysis functions. As noted above, to facilitate the identification of the specified analytes, the variable data (such as resistance) of the detectors for a particular unknown test sample can be correlated with a set of previously collected standards stored in the memory. These standards can be collected using one of at least two appropriate techniques, as described below. In one technique, a known reference sample is provided to the sampling chamber (s). The known sample can be supplied from a small reference cartridge (i.e., located within the nose-e device). The supplies of this reference sample to the sampling chambers can be controlled by a compact solenoid valve under the control of the processor. An advantage of using a known reference sample is the ability to control the identity of the reference sample. The cartridge can be replaced periodically. In another technique, the unknown test sample supplied to the sampling chambers can be selectively "debugged" by deflecting it through an agent! e cleaner (for example, charcoal). Again the deviation of the test sample through the cleaning agent can be controlled by the processor through a compact solenoid valve. An advantage of this variation is that a cartridge is not necessary. The cleaning agent can be cleaned periodically, although it can be difficult to ensure that the reference sample is free of all contaminants. The processors in Figures 12A and 12C direct data acquisition, perform the digital signal procedure and provide control over peripheral devices in senes (through SPI), I / O devices, serial communications (through SCI) and other peripheral devices. Peripheral devices in series that can be controlled by the processors, include the ADC and the DAC, an external 32K EPROM (with the capacity to expand to 64K), a 32K RAM with integrated real time clock and a battery backup, a dot matrix screen of 2x8 characters and others. The I / Os that can be controlled include five separate temperature tests (four are amplified through amplifiers and used for four independent heater control circuits using transistors), a humidity test, two operation buttons, a green LED and others. Serial communications to external devices are provided by the onboard low-power RS-232 serial actuator. Processors also control peripheral devices such as the screen, the valve installation and the pump. The processors also monitor the input devices (e.g., operation button switches 122 in Figure 2A) and also provide digital communication to a host computer through an interface (e.g., the RS-232 driver) located at the housing of the device (e.g., an electrical connector 126 in Figure 2A). In the embodiment in Figure 12C, the data acquisition includes communication and / or control over the delta-sigma ADC (ie, 20 bits), the 4-channel DAC 1262 (ie, 12 bits) and the four MUXes 1256 analogs of fast speed of 8 discontinuous channels. The on-board memory (ie, external RAM) is provided for data logging purposes. In one mode, the memory is organized in blocks of 32K x 8 bits. In a modality, each sample of the ADC is 24 bits and occupies three bytes of memory. Thus, each 32K-byte memory block provides storage of 10,666 samples. If all 32 channels are used for data logging purposes, the memory block provides storage for 333 data points / channel. An internal energy supply preserves the data stored in the memory and is designed with a lifetime of more than five years. The sampling rate of ADC is programmable and the data can be transferred over the digital inferium RS-232 to the main computer. The communication between the on-board processor and the main computer is able to configure the device and transfer data in real time or at a later time through the inferred RS-232. A transfer ratio of 9600 bits / second can transmit] approximately 400 data points / second and higher transfer rates can be used. Figures 13A to 13G represent a modality of suitable flow diagrams of the functional steps performed by the napz-e device in the implementation of the measurement and the analysis procedures outlined above. These flow diagrams show how the napz-e device is initialized and then controlled through its various modes of operation. In a modality, these modes of operation include: 1) an objective mode, in which the device is calibrated by exposing it to samples of known identity, 2) an Identification mode, in which the device is exposed to samples of unknown identity and 3) a purge mode, in which the device is purged from resident samples. Figure 13A shows a flow chart of a main program menu mode of the nose-e device. Initially, the various electronic elements of the e-nose device (i.e., the display and various internal data registers) are started or reset, in step 1312. An antennas subroutine function is then executed in step 1314. This subroutine is further described in Figure 13B. After performing the background subroutine function, the program proceeds to step 1316 in which the processor determines whether the operation button switch Bl (e.g., switch 122a in Figure 2A) has been depressed or not. If so, the program proceeds to step 1318 in which the mode of operation of the device increases to the next mode that occurs (ie, from the target mode to the Identity mode). From there, the program returns to step 1314 and re-executes the background subroutine function. The increase of the operation mode of the device continues until it is determined in step 1316 that the switch Bl is no longer being pressed. If it is thus determined in step 1316 that the operation button Bl is not (or is no longer) being pressed, the program proceeds to step 1320 in which it is determined whether the switch of the operation button B2 (for example the switch 122b in Figure 2A) is being pressed or not. If the switch B2 is not being pressed, the program returns through an inactive circuit 1322 to step 1314 and re-executes the background subroutine function. Otherwise, if it is determined in step 1320 that the switch of the operation button B2 is being pressed, the program proceeds to implement the selected mode of operation. This is effected by the flow diagram shown in Figure 13C. Figure 13B shows a Eluin diagram of one modality of the antecedent subroutine function (e.apa 1314). In step 1330 the signals indicative of the measurements and parameters selected by the user (i.e., the temperature and humidity within the sampling chambers of the detector module) are read from the ADCs configured to detect the input devices (also referred to as the internal ADCs). The status of the operation button switches (eg, switches 122a to 122c FIG. 2A) are determined, in step 1332, based on the signals of the internal ADCs. The signals controlling the heaters located on the various detector array devices of the detector module are then updated in step 1334. The signals indicative of the measurements of the divider networks, formed by the chemically sensitive resistors and their corresponding reference resistors, are they read from the instrumentation of the ADCs (also referred to as external ADCs), in step 1336. Finally, in step 1338, the processor processes any command received from J to the main computer through the serial data line. Such commands may include, for example, programming information about the identity of the various reference samples to be delivered to the napz-e device during the target mode of operation. The function of antecedent subroutine ends then. Figure 13C shows a flow diagram of a modality of a subroutine to determine which of the operation modes is implemented. In step 1340, a determination is made as to whether or not the selected mode of operation is the objective mode. If it is not, a determination is made as to whether or not the selected operating mode is the identification mode, in step 1342. Typically, the Identification mode is selected only after the target mode subroutine has been implemented for all designated target samples. If the selected mode of operation is the Identification mode, the program executes the subroutine of the identification mode (shown in Figure 13E), in step 1344. Otherwise, if the selected mode of operation is not the mode of identification , a determination is made whether or not the selected operating mode is the Purge mode, in step 1346. If so, the program executes the purge mode subroutine (shown in Figure 13F), in step 1348 Otherwise, the program executes the subroutine in an objective and purge mode (shown in Figure 13G), in step 1350. The purge target mode is the default mode. Again in step 1340, if it is determined that the selected mode of operation is the target mode, the program proceeds to step 1352 in which the antecedent subroutine function is executed. This provides updated values for internal and external ADCs, as described above. Thereafter, in step 1354, it is determined whether the switches of the operation buttons Bl and B2 are being pressed concurrently or not. If so, the program will not implement the target mode and instead return to the idle cycle (step 1322 in Figure 13A). Otherwise, if it is determined in step 1354 that both switches of the operation buttons Bl and B2 are not being pressed concurrently, the program proceeds to step 1356 in which it is determined whether the switch Bl has been depressed or not. If so, the program proceeds to step 1358 in which the particular target number is increased. In one embodiment, the napz-e device is configured to measure multiple different target samples (e.g., eight) and step 1358 allows the operator to select the particular target sample that will be brought to the device for measurement. The identity of these target samples has been previously transferred to the device from the main computer. Thereafter, the program returns to step 1352 to execute the background subroutm function. Each time it is determined that the switch Bl has been pressed, the cycles of the program through this circuit, are increased through the pre-transferred complement of the target samples. If it is determined in step 1356 that the switch Bl has not been depressed, the program proceeds to step 1360 in which it is determined whether the switch B2 has been depressed or not. If not, the program returns to step 1352 to execute the background subroutm function. Otherwise, if it is determined in step 1360 that switch B2 has already been depressed, the program proceeds to implement the subroutm objectively (shown in FIG. 13D), in step 1362. FIG. 13D shows a diagram of flow of a modality of the subroutine in an objective manner. In step 1370, the most recently updated set of measurements of the external ADC is retrieved. These measurements represent the baseline resistance values of the 32 chemically sensitive resistors of the detector module. The pump is then conditioned to bring the designated target sample to the sampling module (s) of the detector module, in step 1372. A new set of measurements is then retrieved from the external ADC, in step 1374. The new set of measurements indicates the resistance values of the 32 chemically sensitive resistors as they respond to the target sample that has been taken to the sampling chamber (s). In step 1376, the 32 resistance measurements (ie, the "response vector") for this particular target vapor is normalized. In one embodiment, this normalization establishes the sum of all 32 measurements equal to a value of lxlO6. The normalized response vector for this target sample is then stored in memory, in step 1378. Finally, in step 1380, the pump and the valve installation are configured to bring clean air into the sampling chamber (s). The subroutine of objective mode ends then and the program returns to the inactive cycle (step 1322 in Figure 13A). Figure 13E shows a flow chart of a mode of the identification mode subroutm. Steps 1390, 139, 1394 and 1396 in Figure 13E are similar to Steps 1370, 1372, 1374 and 1376 in Figure 13D, respectively. In step 1398, the response vector normalized by the unknown sample calculated in l - ~ tnμ 1396 is compared to the response vectors normalized by the various target samples, as determined by the above steps through the subroutm in an objective manner (Figure 13D) and stored in memory. Specifically, the differences between the respective normalized response vectors are calculated in step 1398 and the smallest difference vector is determined (ie, using at least quadratic analysis means), in step 13100. Also in step 13100, the result of this determination is displayed on a screen. Finally in step 13102, the pump and the valve installation are conditioned to bring clean air to the sampling chamber (s). Thus the subroutine of identification mode ends and the program returns to the idle cycle (step 1322 in Figure 13A). Figure 13F shows a flow chart of a mode of the purge mode subroutine. In step 13120, the pump and the valve installation are conditioned to bring clean air into the sampling chamber (s) through the inlet port. The program then returns to the idle cycle (step 1322 of Figure 13A). Figure 13G shows a flow diagram of a modality of the purge objective mode subroutine. In step 13130, all the target sampling information stored in the memory is erased. The program then returns to the idle cycle (step 1322 in Figure 13A). Figure 14 shows a diagram of a selection menu mode for the nose-e device. In Figure 14, a main menu 1408 displays the available measurement modes for the particular nose-e device. The available modes may depend, for example, on the particular modules installed in the e-nose device. In one mode, the following modes are available in the main menu: Identification, Quantification (Qu), Process Control (PC), Data Record (DL), Preparation and Diagnostics. When making a mode selection on the menu screen 1408, a menu screen 1410 appears that queries the user to select a particular method from a set of available methods. When selecting the Method ID option, a menu screen 1412 appears that asks the user to press "sniff" to initiate identification or "cancel" to return to the main menu. When selecting the sniff option, the nose-e device initiates the identification process, as shown in a menu screen 1414 and provides the results upon completion of the process, as shown in a menu screen 1416. The user is It provides you with an option to save the results. When selecting the Method Qu option, a menu screen 1420 appears that queries the user to select an objective. If the identity of the target is unknown, a menu screen 1422 provides the user with the option to perform a sniff to identify the unknown target. When selecting the sniff option, the nose-e device initiates the identification process, as shown on a 1424 menu screen and provides the identity at the end of the process, as shown on a 1426 menu screen. the sample is identified or if the identity is known micially, the objective can be quantified in the menu screens 1426 and 1428. The nose-e device initiates the quantification process, as shown in a 1430 menu screen and provides the results at the end of the process, as shown in a menu screen 1432. When selecting the PC Method option, a 1440 message screen appears that queries the user to press "sniff" "to start the control process or" cancel "to return to the main menu. When selecting the sniff option, the napz-e device starts the process control, as shown in a menu screen 1442 and provides the status report, as shown in a menu screen 1444. When selecting the Method option DL, a menu screen 1450 appears that asks the user to press "sniff" to start the data record or (cancel) to return to the main menu. When selecting the sniffer operon, the napz-e device initiates the data logging process, as shown in a menu screen 1452 and provides the status report, as shown in a menu screen 1454. When selecting the option Preparation, a menu screen 1460 appears asking the user to select one of several preparation methods. The user selects a particular method and a menu screen 1462 appears asking the user to select one of several targets. The user selects a particular target and a menu screen 1464 appears asking the user to press "sniff" to start the preparation. When selecting the sniff option, the napz-e device starts the preparation process using the method and objective selected by the user, as shown in a menu screen 1466. When selecting the Diagnostics option, a menu screen appears 1470 that asks the user to select a diagnostic to execute. Possible diagnostics include, for example, an RS-232 port, a USB port, a range test of the detector, a memory, a processor and the checksum of the program. The user selects a particular diagnosis and the nose-e device starts the selected diagnostic test, as shown in a menu screen 1472 and provides the diagnostic results, as shown in a menu screen 1474. Modular Design In Certain aspects of the invention, the napz-e device is designed using modular sections. For example, the nose, the filter, the collector, the detector module, the power source, the processor, the memory and others can optionally be placed inside a module that can be installed or exchanged, as necessary. The modular design provides many advantages, some of which relate to the following characteristics: interchangeable, removable, replaceable, improvable and non-static. With a modular design, the napz-e device can be designed for use in a wide variety of applications in various industries. For example, multiple detector modules, filters, and so on, can be added to the list of samples to be expanded with measurement. In certain embodiments, the modular design can provide improved performance. The various modules (ie nose, filter, manifold, detector module and so on) can be designed to provide an accurate measurement of a particular set of test samples. The different modules can be used to measure different samples. Thus, operation is not sacrificed by the use of a small portable e-nose device. For example, to detect analytes of high molecular weight, a certain particular nose chip is plugged in. Then, to analyze the analytes of lower molecular weight, another nose chip can be plugged in. The modular design can result in a cost-effective napz-e design. Since some of the components can be easily replaced, it is no longer necessary to discard the entire e-nose device if a particular component is worn out. Only the components that fail are replaced. In certain modalities, the modular design can also provide an improvable design. For example, the processor and the memory module (individually or in combination) can be placed inside an electronic unit that can be updated with new technologies or as required for a particular application. Additional memory can be provided to store more data by simply exchanging memory modules. Also, the analysis algorithms can be included in a program module that is inserted into the napz-e device. The program modules can then be exchanged as desired. The modular design can also provide disposable modules. This can be advantageous, for example, when analyzing toxic samples. Nose In the embodiments described above, the nose-e device includes an external sampling optical detector (or nose or cannon). The nose can be attached to the device using a mechanical interconnector, such as the simple 1/4 turn type, a threaded screw, a mechanical spring installation and other interconnected mechanisms. Many materials can be used to make the nose component, such as injection moldable materials. In certain modalities, the nose is interchangeable and uses a standard luer interconnection. The nose can be, for example, from about 1 inch to about 50 inches in length and preferably the nose is from about 6 inches to about 20 inches in length. The nose can optionally be fluted or be a flexible long hose or a flexible sniff tube. In some modalities, the nose has a luer needle on the sniffing end. Optionally, the nose can withstand an internalized pressure and joins with a presumed valve. As shown in Figure 3B, the nose can be sized in various sizes and shapes. For example, the nose 130d includes a wide opening which may be advantageous, for example, when sampling a gas. In contrast, nose 130f includes an indicator tip that is more suitable for sampling at a specific site. In some alternative embodiments, the intake ports (such as the intake port 132) can be used to receive test samples. The intake ports can be replaced by or complement the external nose. Detector Modules In certain aspects, the chemically sensitive detectors in the detector module can be adapted to be particularly sensitive to particular vapor classes. For example, the set for one of each module can incorporate suitable vapor detectors to differentiate polar analytes such as water, alcohol and ketones. Examples of polar polymers suitable for use as such vapor detectors include poly (4-vinyl phenol) and poly (4-v? N? L pyrrolidone). The detector module can optionally be identified by means of an identification resistor (not shown) having a selected resistance. Thus, before processing the variable resistor measurements 1-collected by the chemically sensitive resistors of each detector module, the processor measures the resistance of the identification resistor. In this way, the nature of the chemically sensitive resistors of the module can be initially ascertained. A mechanism for the detection of analytes is described in the aforementioned PCT Patent Application Series No. WO99 / 08105. Screen In some modes, the screen is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In other modalities, the screen is a graphic LCD that allows the device to display the text and graphics. This type of screen provides a quality product interaction experience. Examples of LCD modules include those manufactured by Epson Corporation, such as the EPSON EG7502 (TCM A0822) which has a screen size of 57.56mm by 35.99mm, a resolution of 320 x 200 with 0.8 dots and a rear edge light transflective and LED. Various other LCD modules are also suitable. Preferred LCD modules offer one or more of the following features: (1) higher resolution to allow a smaller but more comfortable display area display (320 x 200 and fine dot separation), (2) low energy consumption (for example, 3mW to 9mW), (3) multiline scanning technology (active addressing), (4) integrated "touch" panel, (5) power supply and integrated control chips, ( 6) LED backlight - for a smaller module, (6) screens used with video and other features. Input Devices In certain embodiments, the nose-e device optionally includes input devices, such as operation buttons, a numeric keypad, a keyboard, a touch screen, switches, other input mechanisms or a combination of the foregoing. The numeric keypad can be made of various materials. In certain embodiments, the numeric keypad is molded from silicone rubber, which advantageously provides tactile feedback for the gloved hands. In addition, navigation controls can optionally be incorporated into the numeric keypad and buttons. For example, a "sniff" button can optionally be placed inside the numeric keypad. The numeric keypad can optionally be a membrane-type numeric keypad. In this implementation, the numeric keypad is formed by laminated sheets of acrylic, Milar, PC or other suitable materials. Press-fit domes can be used to achieve greater tactile feedback for the user. The product graphs can be incorporated into the numeric keypad. Advantageously, the numeric keypad has flexibility with graphics, is easy to clean and has protection against spillage. In addition, the numeric keypad is configured with low pulse distances. In other cases, a microswitch is used, such as a "sniff" button, to further accentuate the tactile "Click" feedback and generate a low-level audio signal. In certain embodiments, the napz-e device optionally includes an indicator. Advantageously, the indicator provides greater application flexibility and ease of use in the field. In certain aspects, the bookmark can be used for barcode reader and easy inventory control. In addition, the device optionally includes a keyboard. The keyboard allows flexibility of application, such as in the field, preparation or laboratory use. The napz-e device optionally includes other input devices, such as a touch screen. Suitable touch screens include the analog resistive type. Other touch screens include those similar to those of PDA, GPS and other products. Yet another touch screen includes types of electromagnetic resonance that optionally has a special stylus, such as a stylus without batteries. In addition, touch screens may include, but not. are limited to, electrostatic, GSAW and capacitive and resistive, analogous types. The analog resistive touch screen is preferred since high and low resolutions can be easily achieved. In certain modalities, the napz-e device notifies the user when providing general information and specifies the current mode of the device. Device operators can see what options are available. The guidelines and instructions are available to help the user interact with the product. In certain cases, the descriptions and instructions are brief and specific. The graphics and icons help users through the interaction of the product. Users are provided with a mechanism to stop the device when necessary and to return to previous screens when appropriate. These different features collaborate to provide device interactions that are fast, simple and reliable. In other embodiments, the nose-e device provides users with information regarding the status of the device. Examples include, but are not limited to, initiating an action, executing an operation, waiting for input, and so on. further, other input and output parameters of the device, such as hardware controls, include, but are not limited to: Scroll up keys; (2) Scroll keys down; (3) Selection Keys; "(4) Cancel keys; (5) Sniff keys; (6) Power on / backlight on / off; (7) Digital Input Connector; (8) Analog Output Connector; (9) Sene (RS232) -RJ11; (10) USB-Standard A; (11) Screen Contrast- (rotary knob, analog point); (12) Pin-reset system; (13) battery-plug recharge; (14) pneumatic ports; (15) nose inhalation port (sample smell port); (16) exhalation (discharge); and (17) intake reference Source of energy The nose-e device optionally includes a power source, such as a battery, to provide electrical power In certain embodiments, the device operates from power supply voltages of approximately 3.3 volts and approximately 5.0 volts DC In a specific mode, the device consumes approximately 3.2 watts or less, with a consumption typical average power of approximately 1.8 watts. The operator is able to operate from approximately 1 hour to approximately 20 hours without requiring a recharge of the power source. The power source can be manufactured using nickel cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), sealed lead acid (SLA) or other battery technologies. Preferably, the battery pack has low weight and a high energy density to keep the battery volume small. The lithium-ion cells have a high relative internal resistance and a wide range of voltages during a discharge compared to other battery chemistries. A voltage regulator can be used to provide appropriate voltages for the circuitry of the napz-e device. For efficiency, a switching voltage regulator can be used in place of linear type regulators. The voltage regulator can also be used to provide multiple output voltages for different circuitry within the napz-e device. In certain cases, the output voltages require that the power supply include values above and below the battery voltage. In these cases, a SEPIC topology can optionally be used for the switching regulator. The conversion efficiency of such switching regulators is approximately 85%. To provide approximately 18 hours watts of power to the load using such a switching regulator, the power requirement of the lithium-ion battery pack is approximately 21 watts-hours. In a specific embodiment, a lithium ion (L-ion) battery pack of approximately 100 cubic centimeters (cc) in volume and approximately 250 grams in weight can optionally be used for the nose-e device. In another specific embodiment, a nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack weighing approximately 370 grams and having a volume of approximately 150cc can be used. Other batteries capable of providing an equivalent amount of power include, but are not limited to, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery pack of approximately 560 grams and 210 cc and a sealed lead acid (SLA) battery pack. . approximately 750 grams and 350 cc. In general, charging times increase and the available battery capacity is reduced by low (for example, 0 to 10 ° C) and high (for example, 40 to 50 ° C) temperatures. For accuracy of the "Gas Measurement" under such conditions, the Smart Battery System (SBS) can also be used. The SBS is a part of the commercially available System Management urt bus. The SBS allows the battery packs to communicate to the intelligent loads and other intelligences of the systems using a physical protocol similar to the I2C bus protocol of the Philips Corporation. The software protocol on the SBS allows to direct the communication of parameters such as the state of charge, battery pack voltage, battery temperature, number of discharge cycles and so on. The various integrated circuit providers now offer single-chip implementations of the inferred SMB. Alternatively, a custom-programmed microcontroller such as a PIC chip of Microchip Technology Inc may be used for this purpose. In some embodiments, the device includes an energy pack that is optionally chargeable. In some other embodiments, the device optionally includes batteries such as, for example, four AA batteries. The chemicals in the cell can vary. The device optionally accommodates alkaline exchangeability. The device optionally has a device for a secondary rechargeable package which may be the same size or smaller than the energy devices described above. Implementations of the Electronic Nose Device Specific . The napz-e device can be implemented in several configurations to include several features and is used in several applications. Some specific implementations are provided below. In a specific implementation, the napz-e device includes a detector array of 32 detectors, composed of conductive particles uniformly dispersed in a polymer matrix.

Each polymer expands like a sponge when exposed to a test medium (eg, vapor, liquid, gas) thus increasing the strength of the compound. Polymers expand to varying degrees due to their unique response to different analytes. This change in resistance varies through the detector assembly, producing a distinctive identification response. Regardless of whether the analytes correspond to a complex mixture of chemicals in the test sample or a single chemical, the napz-e device includes enough polymer assemblies to produce a distinct electrical "fingerprint" for the test samples. The pattern of resistance changes in the detector set is indicative of the identity of the analytes, while the amplitude of the pattern indicates the concentration of the analytes. The normalized change in resistance is then transmitted to a processor that identifies the type, quantity and quality of the steam based on the pattern detected in the detector assembly. In another specific implementation, a portable napz-e device for use in the field for detecting volatile compounds is manufactured according to the invention. The device incorporates an easy-to-read graphic LCD with backlighting and one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to indicate the mode of operation. Communications ports are provided to allow easy transmission of data to a spreadsheet package. The quick response time, combined with an easy one-button operation, provides an effective and accurate measurement of the samples. The power is supplied by rechargeable or replaceable batteries. Housed in a waterproof, strong case, the portable nose-e device is suitable for various environments. In yet another specific implementation, the napz-e device is designed to acquire and store collected data from 32 independent sensing elements. The nose-e device includes a 32-channel sampling chamber with input / output ports, a bo nb, 3-way solenoid switch, an LCD, d ^ operation buttons, LED, a humidity probe, a temperature probe and a digital inferióase. The power supply is designed for a 9-volt DC input. A rectifier diode is added for circuit protection. Two linear 5-volt on-board regulators are used for the analog and digital circuitry, respectively. A high precision buried Zener diode is provided to supply a +2.5 volt reference. The total design is a 3V and 5V mixed design for reduced power consumption in a portable device. The sampling chamber houses the 32 detector elements placed on four ceramic substrates, each with eight detector elements. The substrates are manufactured using co-fired hybrid microelectronic (alumina) ceramic processes. The electrodes and contacts are placed as thick films using screen printing techniques. The resistive trajectories can be provided (for example, three trajectories), to be used as heating elements. On the back side of the substrate, a thermistor mounted on the surface can be placed to form a heating / cooling control cycle. An inlet port is provided and a deflector can be inserted to vent the incoming sampling stream. The exit port is respective to the environmental barometric pressures. The sampling chamber can be manufactured from teflon and is airtight and mounted to the PCB. An on-board pump can push the sample flow into the sampling chamber at pressures slightly higher at 14.7 cm. The onboard three-way solenoid switch can change under control of the processor between a known reference source (ie, to "re-0" or recalibrated as necessary) and an unknown test sample. The four ceramic substrates are inserted into two double row connectors, 50-thousand spacing, 20 connectors. The spacing between the rows is 100 mils. A temperature probe is inserted into a connector and a wet probe is inserted into the other. The temperature and humidity probes are used for diagnosis. A derivation network that derives the chemically sensitive resistor in a CD operation mode can be implemented. The network is a ratiometric network that is easy to implement and stable and offers a wide dynamic range. It has been shown that changes of 50 PPM in chemically sensitive electrical resistance can be measured. In addition, baseline changes greater than + 50% can be considered as minimal changes in applied energy, as shown in Table 1. Table 1 - Detectable Changes in Resistance for Various Baseline Resistors Assuming that Johnson noise is the dominant noise source, it is possible to calculate an average noise voltage of 0.3 μV over a 10 Hz bandwidth and can thus detect these stage changes. By keeping the current low (ie, <25 μA) the noise 1 / f is reduced. In general, the deviation scheme in a CD system of constant voltage. The current is limited to micro-amperes (μAs) for each detector element and the applied energy is in the order of microwatts (μWs). For added flexibility, the current is limited and the output voltage is graduated by the resistors. The portable detector apparatus of the present invention was used to detect a series of four (4) homologous ester analytes. The analytes detected were the ethyl esters of propionate, butyrate, balerate and hexanoate. The response data was then analyzed using principal component analysis. 'Main Component Analysis (PCA) is a powerful visualization tool that provides a way to reduce the dimensionality of data. PCA finds linear combinations of the original independent variables that considers the maximum amounts of variation and provides the best possible view of variability in the independent variable block. The natural grouping in the data is easily determined.

Figure 15 shows a graph of a principal component analysis of responses to a series of esters using the portable apparatus of the present invention. As shown in Figure 15 the ester analytes were well discriminated by the portable device of the present invention. Analyzes and Applications of the Nose Device The analytes detectable by the nose device of the invention include, but are not limited to, alkanes, alkenes, alkanes, dienes, alicyclic hydrocarbons, arenas, alcohols, ethers, ketones, aldehydes , carbonyls, carbanions, polynuclear aromatic heterocycles, organic derivatives, biomolecules, microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, sugars, nucleic acids, isoprenes, isoprenoids and fatty acids and their derivatives. Many biomolecules such as amino acids are susceptible to detection using the detector assemblies of the invention. The nose-e device can be used to allow dental and medical care providers to quickly and accurately identify the chemical components in the breath, wounds and body fluids to diagnose a host of disease that includes metabolic problems and infections. For example, the e-nose device can be used to test skin conditions, for administration of anesthesia or to determine the time of ovulation in fertility treatment. Alternatively, the portable device can classify and identify microorganisms, petals and bacteria. The napz-e device can be used to locate an odor to identify a complicated system or state of matter and can offer versatility and reliability absent from conventional chemical or environmental monitoring devices. Advantageously, the device can be used to profile a chemical environment in a hazardous material situation and to assist emergency teams in accurately selecting fire retardants, confinement strategies and protective equipment. The e-nose device can be used to detect spills in pipes and storage containers. The nose-e device can be used in food processing and quality control. For example, the device can be used to test in situ the immediate results or to continuously monitor the load-to-load consistency and deterioration in vain stages of a product, including production (ie, growth), preparation and distribution. . The device can also be used in disposable packaging to provide an objectivity that is absent from pollution monitoring techniques, freshness and conventional deterioration. The napz-e device can also be used to protect the elderly, who tend to lose their sense of smell over time. The device may also be used to reduce the risk of food poisoning or impaired food intake and may be integrated with household appliances, such as refrigerators and microwave ovens. The napz-e device can also be used in a wide variety of commercial applications including, but not limited to: • applications such as utility and energy, petroleum / gas petrochemical, chemical / plastic, automatic ventilation control (cooking, smoking, etc), heavy industrial manufacturing, toxicology and environmental repair, biomedicine, cosmetics / perfumes, pharmaceutical, transportation, emergency response and law enforcement • detection, identification and / or monitoring of fuel gas, natural gas, H2S, ambient air, control of emissions, air intake, smoke, dangerous spill, hazardous spill, fugitive emission, hazardous spillage. • control and monitoring of beverages, food and agricultural products, such as freshness detection, control of fruit ripening, fermentation process, identification and flavor composition, • detection and identification of illegal substances, explosives, transformer failure, refrigerant and fumigant, formaldehyde, diesel / gasoline / aviation fuel, sterilization gas and medical / hospital anesthesia. • telecirugia, body fluids analysis, drug discovery, detection of infectious diseases and breath applications, worker protection, arson investigation, personal identification, perimeter monitoring, fragrance formulation, and • solvent recovery effectiveness, operations Fuel refill, inspection of shipping containers, survival in closed space, product quality test, quality control of materials, quality test and product identification. It should be appreciated from the foregoing description that the present invention provides an improved vapor detector instrument that is not only small and lightweight enough to be portable, but is also modular to allow the device to be conveniently adapted for use. in the detection of the presence and identity of a wide variety of specified vapors. Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to the currently preferred embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various modifications can be made without departing from the invention. According to the above, the invention is defined only by the following claims.

Claims (38)

1. Claims 1. A portable detector apparatus comprising: a housing; a detector module installed in the housing and including at least two detectors that provide a different response to a particular test sample; a sampling chamber defined by one or both of the housing and the detector module, the sampling chamber incorporating an input port and an output port, wherein at least the two detectors are located within or adjacent to the sampling chamber; and a microprocessor installed in the housing and configured to analyze a particular response of the at least two detectors, wherein the microprocessor identifies or quantifies the analytes within the test sample based on the particular response. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a pump installed in the housing and configured to direct the particular test sample through the sampling chamber, from the port of entry to the port of exit. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the particular response includes a group of signals indicative of changes in resistances of the at least two detectors because they are exposed to the particular test sample. 4. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: measurement circuitry installed in the housing and configured to detect the different response from the at least two detectors and to provide a detector signal corresponding to the different response. 5. The portable detector apparatus of claim 4, wherein the measuring circuit includes a delta-sigma converter. 6. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the microprocessor receives the distinct response from the at least two detectors and generates a corresponding identification. 7. The portable detector apparatus of claim 6, wherein a plurality of reference identifications are collected by a plurality of reference samples and a sample identification is generated for the particular test sample, and wherein the microprocessor is configured to compare the sample identification against the plurality of reference identifications to identify the particular test sample. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a valve installed in the housing and configured to direct either a reference sample c an unknown test sample to the sampling chamber. 9. The portable detector apparatus of claim 8, wherein the reference sample is preconditioned. The portable detector apparatus of claim 8, wherein the reference sample is selected from a plurality of reference samples 11. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sampling chamber is sealed from the environment external, except for the port of entry and the port of departure. 12. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a preconcentrator. 13. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: thermal control circuitry that controls the temperature of the at least two detectors. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the detectors in the detector module is a member selected from the group consisting of a conductive / non-conductive region detector, a SAW detector, a microbalance detector quartz, a conductive detector, a chemosistor, a metal oxide gas detector, an organic gas detector, a MOSFET, a piezoelectric device, an infrared detector, a metal oxide detector, a gate MOSFET Pd, a metal FET structure, an electrochemical cell, a conductive polymer detector, a catalytic gas detector, an organic semiconductor gas detector, a solid electrolyte gas detector, and a piezoelectric quartz crystal detector. 15. The portable detector apparatus of claim 14, wherein at least one of the detectors in the detector module is a detector of conductive / non-conductive regions. The portable detector apparatus of claim 14, wherein at least one of the detectors in the detector module is a SAW detector. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detector module includes: a plurality of detector array devices, each detector array device including a set of detectors. 18. A portable detector apparatus comprising: a housing that includes a receptacle; a detector module movably installed in the receptacle of the housing, the detector module includes at least two detectors that provide a different response to a particular test sample; a sampling chamber defined within the detector module, the sampling chamber incorporating an input port and an output port, wherein the at least two detectors are located within or adjacent to the sampling chamber; and a microprocessor installed in the housing and configured to analyze a particular response of the at least two detectors, wherein the microprocessor identifies or quantifies the analytes within the test sample based on the particular response. The portable detector apparatus of claim 18, further comprising: one or more additional detector modules, each detector module configured to be removably installed in the receptacle and to incorporate at least one detector, wherein each detector module is configured to provide a different set of responses to a set of distinctive samples. The portable detector apparatus of claim 19, wherein each removably installed detector module includes an identifier for identifying the detector module, and wherein the microprocessor is configured to determine the identifier included in the particular detector module received in the receptacle . 21. A detector module configured to be used with a detector disposed within a housing defining a receptacle, the detector module comprising: a cover sized and configured to be received in the receptacle of the sensing apparatus; a sampling chamber; an input port configured to clutch in a way with a first port connection of the detector apparatus when the detector module is received in the receptacle, the input port receives a test sample from the detector apparatus and directs the test sample to the chamber Of sampling; an output port configured to discharge the test sample from the sampling chamber; at least one detector located within or adjacent to the sampling chamber and configured to provide a different response when exposed to one or more analytes located within the sampling chamber; and an electrical connector configured to clutch in an assembled manner with an electrical-coupling connector of the detector apparatus when the detector module is received in the receptacle, the electrical connector transmits the characteristic signals of at least one detector of the detector apparatus. 22. The detector module of claim 21, wherein the output port is configured to engage releasably with a second port connection of the sensing device when the detector module is received in the detector apparatus receptacle, the output port discharges the sample Testing the sampling chamber towards the detector apparatus. 23. The detector module of claim 22, wherein the cover incorporates a rear wall that supports the input port, the output port, and the electrical connector. 24. The detector module of claim 21, further comprising: a substrate to which the plurality of detectors are installed. The detector module of claim 21, wherein each of the at least one of the detectors is implemented with a chemically responsive resistor having a resistance that uniquely varies when exposed to one or more specific test samples; and the detector apparatus includes a microprocessor that detects a set of resistors of the at least one detector and identifies the test sample based on the detected set of resistors. 26. A portable detector apparatus for measuring the concentration of one or more analytes within a sampling chamber, comprising: at least two chemically sensitive resistors, each chemically sensitive resistor having a resistance that varies according to the concentration of one or more analytes inside the sampling chamber. a conditioning circuit coupled to at least two chemically sensitive resistors, the conditioning circuitry generating an analog signal indicative of the strength of each of at least one. two chemically sensitive resistors; an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) coupled to the conditioning circuit, the ADC being sensitive to the analog signal and providing a digital signal; and a microprocessor coupled to the ADC, the microprocessor being sensitive to the digital signal and determining the identity or concentration of one or more analytes within the sampling chamber. 27. The portable detector apparatus of claim 27, wherein the conditioning circuit includes a set of voltage divider networks, a network for each of the at least two chemically sensitive resistors, each network providing an analogous voltage. 28. The portable detector apparatus of claim 27 further comprising: at least one multiplexer coupled to the set of voltage divider networks, the multiplexer coupling the analog voltage of the set of voltage divider networks to the ADC. 29. The portable detector apparatus of claim 29 further comprising: at least one amplifier, each amplifier coupled between a multiplexer and the ADC. 30. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a temperature probe. 31. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising multiple temperature probes. 32. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a humidity probe. 33. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the test sample is a fluid. 34. The portable detector apparatus of claim 37, wherein the fluid is a vapor. 35. The portable detector apparatus of claim 14, wherein at least one of the detectors in the detector module is an organic semiconductor gas detector. 36. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the microprocessor is a digital signal processor (DSP). 37. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the microprocessor is a specific application chip (ASIC). 38. The portable detector apparatus of claim 1, wherein the microprocessor is a controller. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A sensory vapor device small enough and light enough that it is hand-held, and that is also modular so that it can be conveniently adapted for use in the perception of the concentration of a wide variety of specific vapors. The device provides these benefits using a sensor module that includes a sample chamber and a plurality of sensors located on a removable chip that goes inside or adjacent to the sample chamber. Optionally, the sensor module can be configured so that it can be plugged in and can be removed in a receptacle formed in the device. The vapors are directed to pass through the sample chamber, whereby the sensors provide a different combination of electrical signals in response to each. The sensors of the sensor module can be in the form of chemically sensory resistors, which have resistances that vary according to the identity and concentration of an adjacent vapor. These sensory resistors can be chemically connected, each one, in series with a reference resistor between a reference voltage and ground, so that an analogous signal is established for each sensory resistor chemically. The resulting analog signals are sent to an analog to digital converter, to produce corresponding digital signals. These digital signals are analyzed appropriately for steam identification.