WO2015053795A1

WO2015053795A1 - Colorimetric gas monitoring system with storage magazine for disposable test elements

Info

Publication number: WO2015053795A1
Application number: PCT/US2013/064691
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sam M. EDWARDS; Gary F. MURAJDA
Original assignee: Draeger Safety, Inc.
Priority date: 2013-10-11
Filing date: 2013-10-11
Publication date: 2015-04-16

Abstract

Described herein is a gas monitoring system including a measuring component having a first housing containing a colorimeter in an internal volume of the first housing. The system includes a storage magazine having a second housing with an internal volume surrounded by a base plate positioned opposite an upper plate, a first side panel having a first slot and a second side panel having a second slot. The storage magazine has a follower within the internal volume of the second housing suspended from the upper plate by a spring element that biases the follower toward the base plate and away from the upper plate. The system includes an actuator coupled to the first housing having a pusher ram loader arm engaged with a motor. Related apparatus, systems, methods and/or articles are described.

Description

COLORIMETRIC GAS MONITORING SYSTEM WITH STORAGE MAGAZINE FOR DISPOSABLE TEST ELEMENTS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The subject matter described herein relates to gas detection, monitoring and environmental warning systems.

BACKGROUND

[0002] A person often must be present in environments where the air is dangerous or can become dangerous due to the presence of harmful gases and toxics. When the air in the environmental atmosphere becomes dangerous to a person, such as due to high concentration of the dangerous gases, it can be necessary for the person to know that fact. Various types of gas monitoring and sensing devices are used in such environmental atmospheres.

SUMMARY

[0003] In one aspect, disclosed is a gas monitoring system including a measuring component having a first housing containing a colorimeter in an internal volume of the first housing. The system includes a storage magazine having a second housing with an internal volume surrounded by a base plate positioned opposite an upper plate, a first side panel having a first slot and a second side panel having a second slot. The storage magazine has a follower within the internal volume of the second housing suspended from the upper plate by a spring element that biases the follower toward the base plate and away from the upper plate. The system includes an actuator coupled to the first housing having a pusher ram loader arm engaged with a motor.

[0004] The system can include one or more gas sensors positioned on at least one disposable element and configured to be in fluid communication with an

environment. The one or more gas sensors can be configured to identify specifically at least one of a plurality of gas species present in the environment. The at least one disposable element can be contained within the internal volume of the second housing prior to being used to identify specifically at least one of a plurality of gas species present in the environment. The at least one disposable element can be pressed against the base plate by the follower. The at least one disposable element can have a shape configured to extend through at least one of the first slot and the second slot. At least a portion of the second housing can be configured to reversibly mate with at least a portion of the first housing. The second housing can be configured to reversibly mate with one or more external surfaces of the first housing. A lower external surface of the base plate can be configured to reversibly mate with an external surface of the first housing. The second housing can have a shape complementary to an internal cavity of the first housing such that the second housing is configured to insert into the internal cavity of the first housing. The colorimeter can be configured to detect a change in color in the one or more gas sensors positioned on the at least one disposable element and exposed to the environment.

[0005] The pusher ram loader arm can have a rack configured to engage a pinion on the motor. Rotation of the motor can result in two-way linear movement of the pusher ram loader arm. The actuator can further include a guide rod to assist in movement of a disposable element during the two-way linear movement of the pusher ram loader arm. The first housing can have a third slot that extends through to the internal volume of the first housing. At least one of the first and second slots can generally align with the third slot of the first housing. Upon movement of the pusher ram loader arm in a first direction a first disposable element contained within the internal volume of the storage magazine can be pushed out through the first slot of the second housing and in through the third slot of the first housing. The actuator can further include first and second opposed guide arms coupled to a portion of the pusher ram loader arm. A distal end of the first guide arm can include a pressure roller and a distal end of the second guide arm can include an extractor gear. The pressure roller can be configured to contact a first edge of the first disposable element and urge a second, opposite edge of the first disposable element against the extractor gear. The first and second guide arms can be coupled together by a spring mechanism that biases distal ends of the first and second guide arms away from one another. The first and second guide arms can be configured to extract the first disposable element at least partially ejected from the internal volume of the first housing. The system can further include a spent storage bin configured to securely hold at least one disposable element already exposed to the environment and read by the measuring component. The actuator is configured to extract the at least one disposable element from the measuring component and insert the at least one disposable element into the spent storage bin.

[0006] Non-transitory computer program products (i.e., physically embodied computer program products) are also described that store instructions, which when executed one or more data processors of one or more computing systems, causes at least one data processor to perform operations herein. Similarly, computer systems are also described that may include one or more data processors and memory coupled to the one or more data processors. The memory may temporarily or permanently store instructions that cause at least one processor to perform one or more of the operations described herein. In addition, methods can be implemented by one or more data processors either within a single computing system or distributed among two or more computing systems. Such computing systems can be connected and can exchange data and/or commands or other instructions or the like via one or more connections, including but not limited to a connection over a network (e.g. the Internet, a wireless wide area network, a local area network, a wide area network, a wired network, or the like), via a direct connection between one or more of the multiple computing systems, etc.

[0007] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic of an implementation of an integrated system;

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the integrated system of FIG. 1;

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic of an implementation of a cartridge;

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic of an implementation of a cartridge storage magazine; [0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic, perspective view of an implementation of a cartridge and cartridge actuator system for use with the integrated system;

[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic, side view of an implementation of a cartridge actuator system for use with the integrated system;

[0014] FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic, top view of an implementation of a cartridge actuator system for use with the integrated system;

[0015] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic, edge view of an implementation of a cartridge actuator system for use with the integrated system;

[0016] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic, side view of an implementation of a cartridge actuator system and spent cartridge storage for use with the integrated system;

[0017] FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic, top view of an implementation of a cartridge actuator system and spent cartridge storage for use with the integrated system;

[0018] FIG. 11 illustrates an implementation of communication links of the system of FIG. 1.

[0019] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Described herein are devices, systems, methods and articles to monitor, detect and analyze various substances, such as gas species, in an environment. Complementary modes of chemical detection are incorporated that combine the highly specific chemical identification capability of short-term, triggered on-demand monitoring (TODM) sensors with real-time continuous monitoring (RTCM) systems. RTCM systems tend to be generally cheaper than TODM systems. The gas sensors in the RTCM systems can last for years at a time because they are not immediately consumed during use like TODM sensors are. TODM sensors although consumed immediately during a reading, can provide an immediate "snapshot" of a gas cloud composition and concentration levels of an alarm-able event. The colorimetric measurement technology underlying TODM system readings can provide more information than RTCM system readings due to their deterministic and discriminatory readings. Further, the timeliness with which readings of TODM system can be performed is helpful for improving the accuracy of the reading. For example, the readings of the TODM system can be performed prior to the dissipation of the alarm-able release/gas cloud therein resulting in a more accurate capture of the peak concentrations. The readings of TODM systems can provide information for which gases are present, the levels at which they are present, and how those levels may be changing within the environment (i.e. rate of change).

[0021] A variety of gas species can be simultaneously detected and monitored, including combustible gases, oxygen, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOC) or other toxics in a variety of locations, including, but not limited to confined space entry such as shafts, tunnels or tanks, and others, locations of natural gas extraction, production and distribution, factories, petro-chemical production and staging,

Marcellus Shale gas extraction and production, drill pad (drilling, fracking and flaring operations, frack water re-use/storage/treatment (VOC release from evaporation, leaks and spills), condensate/collection tanks, compressor station emissions, routine pressure relief gas releases (VOCs, H₂S, CO), diesel or gas fueled compressor engine exhaust

(NOX, CO, formaldehyde, ozone), Manufacturing /production of chemicals, petrochemical, solvents, adhesives, paints, stains, other coatings, aircraft manufacturing, boat building, car manufacturing, Hazardous Materials ((e.g. toxic, corrosive, explosive) in manufacturing, construction and end-product use, flrefighting, Hazmat environments, locations of chemical warfare, or any locations subject to off-gassing. The systems described herein can have application in any area where toxic gases may occur, such as military and law enforcement use as well as in hospitals, research facilities, and industrial facilities to detect exposure to dangerous substances that might be inadvertently released into the environment.

[0022] As used herein, "electrochemical gas sensor" or "electronic gas sensor" can include gas sensors for detecting and measuring concentrations of gases in an air sample by reacting electrochemically with a measuring electrode to produce a signal current. An electrochemical or electronic gas sensor can be used to detect and measure gases in an air sample repeatedly for a generally long period of time without being consumed.

[0023] As used herein, a "colorimetric gas sensor" or "consumable gas sensor" can include gas sensors for detecting and measuring a concentration of a target gas in an air sample by reacting chemically with one or more reactants contained within a measurement element such as a measurement tube to produce a color change detectable in a surrounding material such as sand or other inert material within the measurement tube. It should be appreciated that although "measurement tube" is used throughout that the measurement element need not be a tube, per se, for example the reactants can be on a paper carrier. Generally, the colorimetric or consumable gas sensors can be used to provide information regarding concentration of a specific gas molecule or molecules under short-term conditions such as for a single reading before being consumed. [0024] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic of an implementation of an integrated system 5 and FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the integrated system 5. The system 5 can include a real-time continuous monitoring (RTCM) module 15 and a triggered on- demand monitoring (TODM) module 20, each in communication with a control module 25 and powered by a power supply 30. The system 5 can also include a user interface 55, one or more inputs 60, an alarm system 65, and an external communication system 70, each of which are in communication with the control module 25. The system 5 can include a housing 10 that encloses one or more of the modules. As will be described in more detail below, the RTCM module 15 can monitor the environment for a plurality of gas species and notify the control module 25 that something is present in the environment beyond a threshold level. In turn, the control module 25 of the system 5 can trigger a measurement by the TODM module 20, automatically or by notifying a user to perform the measurement. Limits for concentrations of gas species can be programmed according to a Hazard Quotient equation. The RTCM module 15 can be programmed for specific "time-weighted average" (TWA) and "short-term exposure limit" (STEL) categories of threshold limit values (TLV).

[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic of an implementation of the RTCM module 15. The RTCM module 15 provides the system 5 with a way to monitor gas levels in the environment for an extended time period, such as for a period of days, weeks, months, and even years before needing to be serviced or replaced. The RTCM module 15 can incorporate components of other real-time continuous gas monitoring devices such as the PAC 7000 or an X-AM 5600 with OV Sensors (Dragerwerk AG&Co

KGaA). The RTCM module 15 can include a measuring cell 50 having one or more electronic gas sensors 52. The measuring cell 50 of the RTCM module 15 can be in fluid communication with the atmosphere outside the housing 10. The measuring cell 50 of the RTCM module 15 can be configured such that the one or more electronic gas sensors 52 can be exposed to ambient air such as by ordinary gas diffusion through one or more openings in the housing 10. Gas can diffuse to the measuring cell 50 from openings on one or more sides of the housing 10. Gas access from more than a single side can prevent obstruction of measuring cell 50. In some implementations, the measuring cell 50 can be positioned near a gas inflow port 22 formed in the housing 10. The inflow port 22 can be covered by a gas permeable membrane to protect the measuring cell 50 from particulate matter in the environment. In some implementations, the system 5 can be combined with a pump or other negative pressure source to draw gas towards the electronic gas sensors 52, such as for remote measurements.

[0026] The one or more electronic gas sensors 52 of the measuring cell 50 can include electrochemical substrates, infrared detectors, semiconductor sensors, catalytic sensors or photoionization detectors (PID). Electronic gas sensors 52 can detect toxic gases, oxygen deficiency or enrichment or asphyxiate gases. Catalytic bead (pellistor) gas sensors and infrared-optical sensors can detect combustible gases and explosive mixtures. Infrared technology can also be used to measure C0₂. Galvanic gas sensors can detect oxygen. The RTCM module 15 can include more than a single type of sensor 52. For example, in some implementations the RTCM module 15 can include a PID sensor and a catalytic or infrared sensor. In some implementations, one or more of the electronic gas sensors 52 can be a minimum configuration triggering volatile organic compounds (VOC) sensor, or an ancillary triggering sensor that can detect oxygen, toxic and/or combustible/explosive gases.

[0027] Upon detection of a gas, any one of the multiple electronic gas sensors 52 can communicate gas detection data to the control module 25 to trigger an on-demand reading by the TODM module 20. The redundancy of electronic gas sensors 52 can be useful, for example, if one sensor falls out of operation. In some implementations, the electronic gas sensors 52 can be interchangeably inserted into the housing 10 depending on the type of gas and vapor to be detected by the RTCM module 15.

[0028] In one embodiment, the one or more electronic gas sensors 52 can include those described in U.S. Patent No. 7,426,849 and U.S. Patent No. 5,744,697, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein. The electronic gas sensors 52 of the measuring cell 50 can detect a variety of different gases simultaneously and indiscriminately, including, but not limited to, combustible gases, volatile organic compounds (VOC), NH₃, AsH₃, C0₂, CO, Cl_¾ C₂H₆, HC1, HCN, HF, PH₃, H₂S, CH₄, NO, N0₂, 0₃, 0₂, C₇Hi6, COCl₂, C₃H₈, S0₂, Ammonia, Ethane, Methane, Pentane, Propane, Heptane, polystyrene, benzene, toluene, and others. In some implementations, the one or more electronic gas sensors 52 can detect between 30-40 gases.

[0029] Although the RTCM module 15 can quickly detect an alarm-level gas cloud release of one or more gases, the detection can be indiscriminate and provide only limited information to the user regarding the level at which the particular chemical species are present. Thus, the system 5 also includes a triggered on-demand monitoring

(TODM) module 20. The TODM module 20 allows the system 5 to identify specifically what gas(es) species was detected by the RTCM module 15, the concentration of the gas species present in the environment at the time of detection, and how the levels may be changing over time. As will be described in more detail below, the TODM module 20 can incorporate a consumable gas sensor such as short-term colorimetric measurement tubes to provide an immediate "snapshot" identifying the specific chemical species and the concentration of the specific chemical species before the cloud has an opportunity to disperse and dissipate. The system 5 can identify multiple gas species simultaneously in real-time and in a customized manner based on what gas species are likely to be encountered. Because the gas sensor(s) of the TODM module 20 is consumable, the gas sensor identifies specifically the gas species and gas species concentration once upon exposure to the gas species.

[0030] Still with respect to FIG. 2, the TODM module 20 can include a cartridge measuring subsystem 42 and a cartridge management subsystem 48 for storing, dispensing, and extracting one or more gas measurement cartridges 37 also known as "chips." The TODM module 20 can incorporate components of the Chip-Measurement- System (CMS), Drager Accuro-pump, Drager X-ACT 5000 automatic tube pump (Dragerwerk AG&Co KGaA). It should be appreciated that although the short-term, on- demand air sampling system referenced herein is a CMS-type system that other types of quick, discriminatory measurement systems can be incorporated as well.

[0031] The cartridge 37 can be a disposable element configured to hold one or more consumable gas sensors. The consumable gas sensors can include gas measurement tubes 38 containing reactants such as colorimetric chemicals configured to change color upon exposure to a gas species (see FIG. 3). Reactants contained within a measurement tube 38 can be exposed to air sampled from the environment, such as via a pneumatic system and/or a negative pressure device, upon insertion within the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 such that a reading of gases present in the environment can be taken. Upon exposure to a particular gas, sand within the measurement tubes 38 can change color providing a colorimetric indication of the presence and level of the gas in the

environment. The color can indicate exactly what gas is present, how much, and the rate of change. Optics and electronics within the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 of the TODM module 20 perform colorimetry to convert the degree of coloration of the derivative within the measurement tube 38 into a quantitative digital signal.

[0032] The cartridge 37 allows for simultaneous sampling of a group of gases in a discriminatory and quick manner providing short-term, high accuracy, high-precision sensing or "snapshots" of specific gases in the environment before the release has an opportunity to disperse or dissipate to a less detectable level. The cartridge 37 can be custom-designed based on what gases are likely to be present in the environment if an event were to occur. Further, the system 5 can be loaded with a particular set of cartridges 37 based on what gases are likely to be encountered. Each cartridge 37 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 20, or more measurement tubes 38. In some implementations, the cartridge 37 can have 10 measurement tubes 38. Each cartridge 37 can include more or fewer measurement tubes 38 and the measurement tubes 38 can be grouped into related subsets of detection. It should be appreciated that any combination of measurement tubes 38 in a cartridge 37 are considered herein. Each tube 38 can detect a variety of different gases including, but not limited to, combustible gases, VOC, NH₃, AsH₃, C0₂, CO, Cl_¾ C₂H₆, HC1, HCN, HF, PH₃, H₂S, CH₄, NO, N0₂, 0₃, 0₂, C₇H₁₆, COCI₂, C₃H₈, SO₂, Ammonia, Ethane, Methane, Pentane, and Propane, benzene, toluene, and others. In some implementations, approximately 250 different gases can be detected.

[0033] It should be appreciated that the cartridge 37 can have various configurations. In some implementations, the cartridge 37 can include single and Simulset short term tubes and tube cartridges (Dragerwerk AG&Co KGaA). The cartridge 37 can, but need not, be a planar element. The measurement tubes 38 can be positioned on the cartridge 37 as a parallel array although it should be appreciated that the cartridge 37 can include a single measurement tube. Each measurement tube 38 within the cartridge 37 can be formed of a variety of transparent materials including, for example, glass or clear plastic or paper. Generally, the measurement tube 38 is a tube of capillary dimension such that gas flow through the measurement tube 38 can occur by capillary action.

[0034] Again with respect to FIG. 2, the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 can include a drive system 43, a colorimeter 44 and a pneumatic system 46. The drive system 43 can be configured to engage the cartridge 37 upon insertion of at least a portion of the cartridge 37 through an entry slot 88 to the cartridge measuring subsystem

42 and provide bi-directional linear movement of the cartridge 37 toward and away from the colorimeter 44. The drive system 43 can bring the cartridge 37 into proper alignment with the colorimeter 44 such that upon connection with the pneumatic system 46 a reading of a measurement tube 38 of the cartridge 37 can be performed. The colorimeter

44 can be a device that measures the absorbance of particular wavelengths of light by a specific solution in order to determine the concentration of a known solute in a given solution. In terms of gas measurement, the known solute can be the gas being detected and the solution can be the air sample drawn through the tube. It should be appreciated that a variety of colorimetry devices can be incorporated in the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. The colorimeter 44 can include a color video camera configured to detect and measure a change in color within the measurement tubes 38 of the cartridge 37. The cartridge measuring subsystem 42 can be an optoelectronic analysis system such as described in Drager Safety Tubes-/CMS/Handbook Section 4.3.3.2, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0035] The cartridge management subsystem 48 of the TODM module 20 can include one or more cartridge storage magazines 35, a cartridge actuator system 39, and a spent cartridge storage 45, each of which will be described in more detail below. The components of the cartridge management subsystem 48 provide the system 5 with an automated way to load fresh cartridges 37 as well as extract and store spent cartridges 37 from the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. The automatic feeding and extraction mechanisms allow for integration of the long-term measurements of the RTCM module 15 with the short-term measurements of the TODM module 20. As such, manual interaction with the system 5 can be reduced ensuring the magazine 35 is replenished often enough to meet the demands of a given application. Further, the spent cartridge storage 45 provides a complement to electronic data stored within the system 5 as a data file by maintaining a hard copy record of all the readings taken on the cartridges 37 by the system 5 for future reference, such as for quality control, OSHA purposes, court evidence, etc.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 4, the cartridge storage magazine 35 can store one or more fresh cartridges 37 prior to a reading by the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. The cartridge storage magazine 35 can include housing 76 having a base plate 77 positioned opposite an upper plate 79, a first side panel 81 having an entry slot 83 to an internal volume 75 and a second side panel 85 having a cartridge exit slot 87 from the internal volume 75 of the housing 76. A stack of one or more fresh cartridges 37 can be positioned within the internal volume 75 and can be urged towards the base plate 77 by a follower 89 suspended within the internal volume 75 from the upper plate 79 by a spring element 91 that can bias the follower 89 downward toward the base plate 77 away from the upper plate 79. The spring element 91 can be a gravity assist spring. The follower 89 and spring element 91 allow for the use of gravity to feed fresh cartridges 37 into a ready position for loading into the cartridge measuring subsystem 42.

[0037] It should be appreciated that the structural configuration of the cartridge storage magazine 35 relative to the system 5 can vary. In some

implementations, the cartridge storage magazine 35 can be positioned internal to the housing 10, such as shown in FIGs. 1 and 2. For example, the magazine 35 can have a shape that inserts within a complementary-shaped internal cavity surrounded by internal surfaces of the housing 10. The magazine 35 also can insert into or mate with an open channel of the housing 10 such that it is only partially surrounded by one or more internal surfaces of the housing 10. The magazine 35 can also mate with or couple to one or more external surfaces of the housing 10 such that the magazine 35 remains external to the housing 10. For example, a lower external surface of the base plate 77 can be coupled to an upper external surface of the housing 10. Alternatively, an external surface of one of the side panels of the magazine 35 can be coupled to an external surface of the housing

10. Irrespective of the arrangement of the magazine 35 relative to the housing 10, slots 83, 87, and 88 are generally aligned with one another such that a cartridge 37 within the magazine 35 can be pushed by the cartridge actuator system 39 out of the magazine 35 and into the slot 88 for a reading by the cartridge measuring subsystem 42.

[0038] The mating between the magazine 35 and the housing 10 can involve a coupling system configured to hold the magazine 35 into an appropriate position relative to the cartridge actuator system 39 and the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 such that cartridges 37 contained within the magazine 35 can be inserted and extracted as will be described in more detail below. The coupling system can vary including a rail and slot configuration, taper locking configuration, or another other mechanical coupling configuration. The coupling system can be reversible such that the magazine 35 can be released from the housing 10 and reloaded with a new magazine or additional cartridges 37 can be inserted into the magazine 35. It should also be appreciated that the system 5 can incorporate more than one magazine 35. For example, a plurality of magazines 35 can be coupled to the housing 10 such that they can be selectively activated to interface with the housing 10 such that their cartridges 37 can be loaded.

[0039] The magazines of cartridges can provide the system 5 with various groups of detection capability. In some implementations, the RTCM module 15 can sense a particular gas and relay the information to the control module 25, which in turn, can select an appropriate magazine of cartridges to be loaded. Thus, based on the sensed gas from the real-time system a different magazine of cartridges can be activated to read the gases most likely to be present in the environment. Further, the control module 25 can prevent a reading and/or relay an error message if the magazine 35 or cartridge 37 loaded with the system 5 is not appropriate for the measurement requested. [0040] The magazine 35 can interface with the cartridge actuator system 39 to load cartridges 37 from the magazine 35 into the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 and extract spent cartridges 37 from the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 to the spent cartridge storage 45. As best shown in FIGs. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, the cartridge actuator system 39 can include a pusher ram loader arm 101 engaged with a motor 40 and a pair of pivoting guide arms 102 coupled to a portion of the loader arm 101. A first end of the pusher ram loader arm 101 can engage the motor 40 and a second, opposite end can engage the cartridge 37, for example a cartridge 37 positioned within the magazine 35 at the bottom of the cartridge stack.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 5, the first end of the loader arm 101 can have a rack 109 that engages a complementary textured pinion 111 on the motor 40 such that rotation of the motor 40 can cause linear movement of the loader arm 101. The motor 40 can cause bi-directional linear movement of the pusher ram loader arm 101 towards and away from the magazine 35 and the slot 88 in the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. The motor 40 can be a stepper motor or another type of motor as known in the art. It should be appreciated that other configurations besides a rack and pinion is considered herein.

[0042] The motor 40 can be activated to rotate such that the rack 109 engages the pinion 111 and the pusher ram loader arm 101 undergoes linear movement in a first direction towards the magazine 35. Pusher ram loader arm 101 can be urged towards the entry slot 83 of the magazine 35 until it enters the internal volume 75 of the magazine 35.

The pusher ram loader arm 101 can urge a chip 37 in the chip stack located within the interior 75 of the magazine 35 towards the exit slot 87. As the pusher ram loader arm 101 is further advanced in the first direction, the cartridge 37 can be pushed out the exit slot 87 of the magazine 35 towards the entry slot 88 of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. Once the cartridge 37 is at least partially inserted through the entry slot 88 and enters the internal volume of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42, the drive system 44 of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 can engage the end of the cartridge 37 and pull the cartridge 37 into position relative to the colorimeter 44 and the pneumatic system 46 such that a reading can be performed.

[0043] After a reading of the cartridge 37 is performed and all the

measurement tubes of the cartridge 37 have been consumed, the drive system 44 of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 can at least partially eject the cartridge 37 out through the slot 88. Partial ejection of the cartridge 37 can activate the cartridge actuator system 39 to fully extract the partially ejected, spent cartridge 37 from the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 in a second, opposite direction. In one implementation and as best shown in FIG. 6, a spring- loaded eccentric cam 106 can be positioned relative to the cartridge 37 such that the cam 106 is rotated in a first direction upon insertion of the cartridge 37 into the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 and then rotated in a second, opposite direction upon partial ejection of the cartridge 37 from the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. The cam 106 can be mounted under the cartridge 37 such that the cam 106 engages the bottom surface of the cartridge 37. The cam 106 can also be a side-mounted element such that the cam 106 engages a side of the cartridge 37. In some implementations, the cartridge 37 can have surface features 41 such as ridges or grooves on an external surface of the cartridge 37 configured to engage complementary features on the cam 106 such as the eccentrically extending portion of the cam 106. The cam 106 can have a surface that acts to improve the contact between the cam 106 and the cartridge 37, such as rubber or other material to increase friction.

[0044] A signal from the TODM module 20 can be sent to the control module 25 to signal the release of the cam 106. The control module 25 can then activate the chip actuator system 39. As mentioned above and as best shown in FIG. 7, the cartridge actuator system 39 can include a pair of guide arms 102 coupled to the pusher arm 101 that can pivot relative to one another. A spring mechanism 104 can bias the guide arms 102 to pivot away from one another, for example, during insertion of the cartridge 37 into the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. To extract the spent cartridge 37 partially ejected from the cartridge measuring subsystem 42, the guide arms 102 can be actuated to pivot towards one another such that the arms 102 close and engage an end of the partially- ejected, spent cartridge 37.

[0045] The guide arms 102 can include features that upon activation can extract completely the spent cartridge 37 out of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42.

An extractor gear 103 can be coupled to the distal end of one of the guide arms and a pressure roller 105 can be coupled to the distal end of the opposite the guide arm. The pressure roller 105 can be configured to contact a first edge of the cartridge and urge a second edge of the cartridge 37 against the extractor gear 103. The pressure roller 105 allows for linear movement of the cartridge 37 relative to the pressure roller 105 and the guide arms 102. The extractor gear 103 can passively rotate as the cartridge 37 is initially ejected out of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42 by the drive system 44. The extractor gear 103 can also be actively rotated such that the partially ejected, spent cartridge 37 can be engaged and withdrawn from the slot 88 of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. The extractor gear 103 can include surface features configured to engage the surface features 41 on the edge of the cartridge 37.

[0046] As best shown in FIG. 9, the pusher ram arm 101 can be pulled back into its "home" position by the motor 40 and cause the spent cartridge 37 to be released into the spent cartridge storage 45. In some implementations, a spring-mounted ejector lever 108 can be mounted under the cartridge 37. During insertion of a cartridge 37 into the slot 88, the lever 108 can be urged to rotate down towards the mounting plate 110 and ride along the bottom surface of the cartridge 37. Upon return of the arm 101 to the home position, the lever 108 can be released to spring into an upright position such that it strips the spent cartridge 37 from between the guide arms 102 of the cartridge actuator system 39.

[0047] Upon release from the guide arms 102, the spent cartridge 37 can be directed to the spent cartridge storage 45. In some implementations, the spent cartridge storage 45 can be a bin located internal to the housing 10 such as within the underlying mounting plate 110 near the entry slot 88 of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42.

Alternatively, the spent cartridge storage 45 can be a bin located off to the side of the entry slot 88 of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42, such as the implementation shown in FIG. 10. In some implementations, the spent cartridge storage 45 can be a bin mounted externally to a portion of the housing 10. Upon removal from the cartridge measuring subsystem 42, the spent cartridge 37 can be directed to the storage 45 by the cartridge actuator system 39. For example, the cartridge 37 can be dropped by the guide arms 102 onto a surface of the underlying mounting plate 110 where a solenoid 112 can be activated to kick the spent cartridge 37 off of the mounting plate 110 and into the spent cartridge storage 45. The spent cartridge storage 45 can be reversibly coupled to the housing 10 such that the spent cartridge storage 45 can be accessed and spent cartridges retrieved. The spent cartridge storage 45 can be configured to hold a number of spent cartridges including 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 or more cartridges.

[0048] The cartridge 37 can be supported during linear movement between the magazine 35, cartridge measuring subsystem 42, and spent cartridge storage 45 by one or more guide rods 107 positioned on the mounting plate 110. It should be appreciated that a tray or other support element can be used in place of or in addition to the one or more guide rods 107. Use of the guide rods 107 or other support element can depend upon support needs for the cartridge 37 or sliding resistance of the cartridge 37. In some implementations, one or more guide rods 107 can be preferable so as to reduce exterior cartridge contamination such as due to dirt on the bottom surface of the cartridge 37 that could foul the interior of the cartridge measuring subsystem 42.

[0049] Again with respect to FIGs. 1 and 2, the control module 25 can be positioned on a printed circuit board 26 and have an evaluating circuit 27 and a microprocessor 28 operatively connected to a memory 29. The control module 25 can be in operative bi-directional communication with the RTCM module 15 and the TODM module 20 as well as any external monitoring station that may be incorporated with the system 5. The control module 25 is configured to receive, process, store and command the two types of readings provided by the two types of sensing instruments (RTCM

Module 15 and TODM module 20) as well as other data collected by the modules 15, 20 during operation of the system 5. The control module 25 can run one or more software programs to oversee, manage, and/or coordinate the measurement, evaluation and analysis functions of the RTCM and TODM modules to make the data useful for a user in terms of analysis and reporting. The control module 25 can combine data for logging and analysis to provide a full picture of the event as well as the time leading up to the event that triggered the reading by the TODM module 20. The control module 25 also can provide the necessary communications and control with or between the two modules 15,

20 such that activations of certain functions of the system 5 are coordinated. The control module 25 can also use its evaluating circuit 27 to perform periodic system housekeeping functions and self-tests and cartridge management.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 11, the control module 25 can send one or more signals via a communication link 115 to the RTCM module 15 as well as via a communication link 120 to the TODM module 20. The control module 25 can receive one or more signals from the RTCM module 15 via the communication link 115 as well as from the TODM module 20 via the communication link 120. Further, one or more signals can be communicated between the two modules 15, 20 via an additional communication link 122. For example, one or more signals can be sent from the RTCM module 15 to the TODM module 20 and from the TODM module 20 to the RTCM module 15. One or more signals can be sent from the control module 25 to one or both of the RTCM module 15 and the TODM module 20 and each of the RTCM module 15 and

TODM module 20 can communicate with one another. The internal communication links between the control module 25 and the measurement modules 15, 20 can vary. In some implementations, the RTCM module 15 is in communication with the control module 25 by a wireless bi-directional communication, including a wireless infrared communication link, such as 115.2K bi-directional IRD A interface. In some implementations, the TODM module 20 is in communication with the control module 25 by a wireless bi-directional communication, including a near field wireless communication link, such as a near field RF bi-directional communications control link.

[0051] The communication links 115, 120, 122 allow for the system 5 to be automated and lessens the dependence on user interaction with the system 5 for full and complete evaluation of an event. The system 5 can be programmed to function in a variety of ways depending on the environment for which the system 5 is intended to be used and according to a user's discretion. Provided herein are examples of the ways in which the system 5 can be configured.

[0052] An on-demand reading by the TODM module 20 can be automatically activated by the control module 25 based on data communicated to the control module 25, such as from the RTDM module 15 via the communication link 115. The on-demand reading can be triggered, for example, as a result of the RTCM module 15 reading meeting a measurement alarm threshold. The alarm threshold can be system-configured and/or user entered. The on-demand reading can also be triggered based on a system- configured scheduled time interval. Time-based triggering of the TODM module 20 can provide periodic baseline of below alarm threshold level readings and can provide an alternate minimal sampling record. This can be useful where it might be required by an application protocol or as a fallback measurement method in the event of a failure in the RTCM module 15.

[0053] On-demand readings by the TODM module 20 can be performed at a user's discretion and manually activated as well. For example, the user can manually instruct the system 5 using the one or more inputs 60 to perform a reading with the TODM module 20. Further, the system 5 can provide a message or other alert such as on the user interface 55 to urge the user to perform a manual reading using the TODM module 20. In addition, when wired to a remote control room or computer network, the system can be commanded to execute a test based on control room-induced stimuli, such as a reading from a downstream remote sensor to monitor for a gas cloud movement.

[0054] The system 5 can regularly monitor the air in the environment using the RTCM module 15, such as according to a time schedule. Air can enter the RTCM module 15 such as through the inlet port 22 (either by diffusion or by application of a negative pressure within the housing 10). The electronic gas sensors 52 of the RTCM module 15 can react electrochemically upon exposure to their respective target gas(es) and generate a signal as a result of the reaction. For example, the RTCM module 15 can detect a release of a VOC in a concentration that warrants an alarm. The signal can be sent through the communication link 115 to the control module 25 such that the signal can be evaluated by the microprocessor 28. If the signal is higher than a threshold value, one or more subsequent events can occur. In some implementations, the TODM module

20 is triggered via communication link 120 to automatically take a reading. In other implementations, the TODM module 2 is triggered via the communication link 120 to automatically take a reading based upon a programmed schedule instead of due to a

RTCM module 15 reading. The system 5 can assess whether a cartridge 37 is available in the magazine 35 and whether that cartridge 37 is appropriate for the reading to be taken.

The VOC(s) detected by the RTCM module 15 can also dictate which cartridge 37 is loaded. The TODM module 20 can have a cartridge 37 pre-loaded in the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. Alternatively, the cartridge actuator system 39 can be instructed to load a fresh cartridge 37 from the magazine 35 into the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. An air sample can be drawn through the cartridge 37 and then analyzed by the cartridge measuring subsystem 42. Data from the TODM module 20 can be communicated back to the control module 25 via communication link 120 where the results of the reading by the TODM module 20 can be logged into the memory 29 of the system 5. If the reading of the TODM module 20 warrants an "exceeded limit" alarm, the system 5 can assert an alarm of appropriate specificity (e.g. chemical species identified) and level (e.g. concentration of chemical species) available from the TODM module 20 data.

[0055] In other implementations, an alert system 65 of the system 5 can be triggered. The reading by the TODM module 20 as well as the triggering of the alert system 65 can happen concurrently or in place of one another. The subsequent actions and reactions can be determined by the specific users of the system 5. For example, if the TODM module 20 is not automatically triggered to perform a reading and only the alert system 65 triggered, the user can be notified of the event and urged to perform a manual measurement using the TODM module 20.

[0056] The desired Threshold Limit Values (TLV) for individual gases detected by the RTCM module 15 can be defined or pre-programmed prior to use such as by a manufacturer or by a user entering the limits with the one or more inputs 60 based upon the likelihood of those gases to be detected by the RTCM module 15 in a particular environment. All settings can be pre-programmed to factory default settings for typical use and generally accepted parameters. The user can adjust these settings for specific applications, special conditions and/or local requirements. The user can perform the adjustments by accessing one or more menus in the system user interface 55 or communicating to the system 5 via an interface such as a PC or other device. Parameters such as alarm set points, test gas settings, calibration gas concentrations, logging frequency, types of gases monitored and other parameters can be set to user preferences from the factory defaults.

[0057] The memory 29 can store electronic data from both the RTCM module 15 and the TODM module 20, such as the substance(s) measured, concentration, date and time measured, trend data, temperature compensation, site of measurement, number, calibration values, measure range, cartridge identification information, cartridge array available in magazine, current number of cartridges remaining in magazine, magazine replenishment, alarms triggered, alerts, and any other information related to the system 5, its components and their use. The stored data can be retrieved again at any time and communicated to the user such as via the user interface 55. The electronic data capacity of the memory 29 can vary. The electronic data capacity can hold the results of a variety of measurements, including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 50, 60, or more

measurements, together with relevant data. The memory 29 can be volatile and nonvolatile, and removable and non-removable. The memory 29 can include computer storage media, including by not limited to RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical disk storage, or any other medium which can be used to store computer-readable instructions, software, data structures, program modules, and other data which can be accessed by the system 5. Data can be accessed directly or through a network such as the internet, WAN or a LAN. [0058] The user interface 55 can include a visual information display such as an LCD (liquid crystal display), LED, plasma screen, or a CRT (cathode ray tube) for displaying information to the user such as a reading taken by one or more of the RTCM module 15 and the TODM module 20 or other information. The one or more inputs 60 of the system 5 can allow the user to provide input to the circuitry. The input 60 can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input. The input 60 can include a user- friendly, mechanical control devices (e.g. switches, dials, keys, buttons), electrical arrangements (e.g. slider, touch screen), wireless interfaces for communication with a remote controller (e.g. RF, infrared), acoustic interfaces (e.g., with speech recognition), computer network interfaces (e.g., USB port), and other types of interfaces. The input 60 can be used to selectively activate the power supply 30 during a period of interest.

[0059] The power supply 30 can include a variety of types such as one or more batteries, including disposable or rechargeable battery such as a NiCad battery, LiPo battery, NiMH battery or the like. The user interface 55 can indicate the charge of the device if powered by a battery. The system 5 can connect to the power supply charger 32. The power supply charger 32 can include a docking station that provides a constant trickle charge to the power supply 30 provided by, for example, direct connection to a high capacity lead gel battery or a power supply/charger in lieu of a conventional cradle or wall adaptor recharging station.

[0060] The system 5 can periodically perform one or more self-checks to verify the readiness and integrity of various components of the system, including the internal communication links between the modules; the external communication links with network peers and/or remote client/supervisors; viability of the modules 15, 20; number of available cartridges in the magazine; battery remaining charge; configuration whether to allow operation if connected to a battery charging circuit; and others.

[0061] The alarm system 65 can include measurement alarms for both the

RTCM module 15 and TODM module 20 (e.g. threshold exceeded, TODM module triggered, VOC sensor threshold alarm, ancillary sensor (0_¾ NOX, CO, H₂S etc.) threshold alarm etc.) and system alarms (e.g. magazine nearly empty/empty/

jammed/loaded improperly for gas to be detected, RTCM module fault, TODM module fault, battery low, current fault, wireless connections, etc.). The alarm system 65 can include any form of sensory feedback or alarm (e.g., audible, tactile and/or visual feedback). The alarm system 65 can include one or more illuminated LEDs that indicate a particular status of the system 5 and/or the ambient air condition. In some

implementations, the LED can illuminate a green color indicating a clean condition of the ambient air. Upon detection of a gas hazard by the RTCM module 15 or the TODM module 20, the LED color can change from green to red. It should be appreciated that other visual warnings can be incorporated. Similarly, a variety of audible warnings or alarms can be incorporated in the system 5 such as through a speaker. It should be appreciated that the alarm system 65 can also cause a wireless signal (e.g. a wireless transmission to a remote controller or monitor) to be transmitted by the external communication system 70. The system 5 can also connect to and operate external alarm equipment such as alarm horns, lamps, traffic lights, etc. remote from the system 5. A triple alarm can also be used in which an audible, visual and tactile alarm can be emitted when the threshold is exceeded or a value falls below a configured concentration. The alarm system 65 can be adjustable such that there are one or more alarm set points for a selected measuring range. The alarms can be latching, meaning human intervention is needed for the alarm indication to be reset. The alarm system 65 can generate one or more alarms using multiple mechanisms simultaneously, concurrently or in a sequence, including redundant mechanisms or complementary mechanisms. It should be appreciated that a variety of alarms can be incorporated into the system.

[0062] The external communication system 70 can send data and hazardous event notifications from the system 5 to an external destination or device and vice versa.

The external communication system 70 can be used to transmit data such as from the memory 29 to a remote location and/or receive data from remote location device. The system 5 in turn can provide real-time warnings of substances detected in an area. The external communication system 70 can transmit via various communications protocols including SMS / MMS to individuals within the monitored area as well as to supervisors / control centers overseeing the activities of such individuals. Other notifications can be delivered by other means including voice telephone calls, e-mails, and the like. The data can be downloaded through the external communication system 70 to a remote or local

PC, laptop, table computer, smartphone, communication station, another detector system, or other remote device, over a variety of communication lines. The external

communication system 70 of the system 5 can have wired and/or wireless communication capability such as for the sending and receiving of data as is known in the art. The wireless communication capability can vary including, e.g. transmitter and/or receiver, radiofrequency (RF) transceiver, WIFI connection, infrared, optical or Bluetooth communication device, and the like. The wired communication capability can vary including, e.g. USB or SD port, flash drive port, disk, data stick, or any programmable memory device. The wired and wireless capability may be used for a variety of purposes, including updating software or firmware for the processor.

[0063] One or both of the modules 15, 20 of the system 5 may be periodically calibrated to ensure the readings generated are accurate. The system 5 can be provided with a known concentration of a known substance and the reading of the RTCM module 15 adjusted to reflect the known concentration of the known substance or known concentrations of a combination of known substances. The sensors of the system 5 can be calibrated on a regular basis specific to each sensor type, varying generally from 1 to 12 months. The sensors can be challenged, such as by a function test or a "bump" test, with a known concentration of gas that exceeds alarm set thresholds for each sensor before any use.

[0064] The system 5 can be suitable for both mobile and stationary use. In some implementations, the system 5 can be a portable or mobile system, such as a handheld system or a system capable of being carried by a person of ordinary strength. The system 5 can be small enough to be clipped onto a person, such as on a belt or piece of clothing using a clip accessory coupled to a portion of the housing 10. Alternatively, the system 5 can be held and transported using a handle coupled to a portion of the housing 10.

[0065] It should be appreciated that one or more systems 5 can be used in combination with a base station or an area monitoring device 130. The area monitoring device 130 can be in communication with the control module 25 of the one or more system 5 such as by 'N' wireless external network link 125 (see FIG. 11). The area monitoring device 130 can be stationary or mobile. The area monitoring device 130 and systems 5 can each perform two-way communication with one another. In some implementations, the multiple systems 5 can detect a combination of gases and communicate the raw data of the readings to the area monitoring device 130, which in turn can perform the calculations and evaluations of the readings to determine whether a hazard exists in one or more of the areas and trigger a further reading such as by the TODM module 20. In other implementations, the systems 5 can detect a combination of gases, perform the calculation and evaluation of the raw data of the readings, and communicate the evaluation to the area monitoring device 130. In further

implementations, one of the systems 5 can sense one type of gas and a second system 5 can sense a second different type of gas. Each system 5 can communicate then- respective raw or processed data to the area monitoring device 130, which can evaluate the data and perform necessary calculations to determine whether a hazard condition exists and whether to trigger a further reading such as by the TODM module 20.

Examples of area monitoring systems are described in U.S. Patent No. 7,336,191, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0066] An example of a method of use will now be described. It should be appreciated that the systems described herein can be programmed to perform monitoring and analysis is a variety of configurations and this is provided only as an example. The system 5 can be located in an environment such that the RTCM module can monitor the environment. The RTCM module comprises one or more reusable electronic gas sensors in fluid communication with the environment and can be configured to monitor the environment for an extended time period for the presence of a plurality of gas species. The RTCM module is in communication with the control module. At least one of the one or more reusable electronic gas sensors can be exposed to at least one of the plurality of gas species present in the environment in an amount that exceeds a programmable threshold level. A first signal generated by the RTCM module can be communicated to the control module. The first signal can contain data related to the at least one of the plurality of gas species that is present in the environment in the amount that exceeds the programmable threshold level. In response to the first signal, the control module can send a command to the TODM module that is in communication with the control module to perform a reading of the environment with the one or more consumable gas sensors of the TODM module that can be in fluid communication with the environment and are configured to identify specifically the at least one of the plurality of gas species. Upon performing a reading, the TODM module can generate a second signal to communicate back to the control module. The second signal can contain data comprising an identity of and/or a concentration of the at least one of the plurality of gas species. It should be appreciated that the first and second signals can contain any number of various types of data to communicate to the control module, as described in more detail above. The memory of the control module can log the various data communicated from both the RTCM module and the TODM module. Further the evaluating circuit of the control module can analyze the various data communicated from both the RTCM module and the TODM module.

[0067] Various aspects of the subject matter described herein may be realized in digital electronic circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations thereof. These various implementations may include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and/or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, the memory, at least one input device, and at least one output device such as a display.

[0068] These computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor, and may be implemented in a high-level procedural and/or object-oriented programming language, and/or in assembly/machine language. As used herein, the term "machine-readable medium" refers to any computer program product, apparatus and/or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine- readable signal. The term "machine-readable signal" refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and/or data to a programmable processor.

[0069] The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein.

Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0070] Although a few variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the implementations described above can be directed to various combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features and/or combinations and sub-combinations of several further features disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows and steps for use described herein do not require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other embodiments can be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A gas monitoring system comprising:

a measuring component comprising a first housing containing a colorimeter in an internal volume of the first housing;

a storage magazine comprising:

a second housing having an internal volume surrounded by a base plate positioned opposite an upper plate, a first side panel having a first slot and a second side panel having a second slot; and

a follower within the internal volume of the second housing suspended from the upper plate by a spring element that biases the follower toward the base plate and away from the upper plate; and

an actuator coupled to the first housing having a pusher ram loader arm engaged with a motor.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more gas sensors positioned on at least one disposable element and configured to be in fluid

communication with an environment, the one or more gas sensors configured to identify specifically at least one of a plurality of gas species present in the environment.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the at least one disposable element is contained within the internal volume of the second housing prior to being used to identify specifically at least one of a plurality of gas species present in the environment.

4. The system of claims 2 or 3, wherein the at least one disposable element is pressed against the base plate by the follower.

5. The system of any of claims 2-4, wherein the at least one disposable element has a shape configured to extend through at least one of the first slot and the second slot.

6. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the second housing is configured to reversibly mate with at least a portion of the first housing.

7. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the second housing is configured to reversibly mate with one or more external surfaces of the first housing.

8. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein a lower external surface of the base plate is configured to reversibly mate with an external surface of the first housing.

9. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the second housing has a shape complementary to an internal cavity of the first housing such that the second housing is configured to insert into the internal cavity of the first housing.

10. The system of any of claims 2-9, wherein the colorimeter is configured to detect a change in color in the one or more gas sensors positioned on the at least one disposable element and exposed to the environment.

11. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the pusher ram loader arm has a rack configured to engage a pinion on the motor.

12. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein rotation of the motor results in two-way linear movement of the pusher ram loader arm.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the actuator further comprises a guide rod to assist in movement of a disposable element during the two-way linear movement of the pusher ram loader arm.

14. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first housing has a third slot that extends through to the internal volume of the first housing.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein at least one of the first and second slots generally aligns with the third slot of the first housing.

16. The system of claims 14 or 15, wherein upon movement of the pusher ram loader arm in a first direction, a first disposable element contained within the internal volume of the storage magazine is pushed out through the first slot of the second housing and in through the third slot of the first housing.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the actuator further comprises first and second opposed guide arms coupled to a portion of the pusher ram loader arm.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein a distal end of the first guide arm comprises a pressure roller and a distal end of the second guide arm comprises an extractor gear.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the pressure roller is configured to contact a first edge of the first disposable element and urge a second, opposite edge of the first disposable element against the extractor gear.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the first and second guide arms are coupled together by a spring mechanism that biases distal ends of the first and second guide arms away from one another.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the first and second guide arms are configured to extract the first disposable element at least partially ejected from the internal volume of the first housing.

22. The system of any of claims 2-21, further comprising a spent storage bin configured to securely hold at least one disposable element already exposed to the environment and read by the measuring component.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein the actuator is configured to extract the at least one disposable element from the measuring component and insert the at least one disposable element into the spent storage bin.