Montana Patent of the Month – August 2023
Sensors for measuring and monitoring gas concentrations over large areas are important tools for a wide variety of traditional and emerging applications. Meeting this demand, Bridger Photonics, Inc. has directed their expertise in Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology to develop a new sensor apparatus that could revolutionize how we detect and monitor gas plumes.
Traditional gas detection methods have often struggled with trade-offs between detection sensitivity, reliability, and selectivity. However, Bridger Photonics’ latest invention aims to bridge these gaps through a comprehensive approach that utilizes advanced optical systems, intelligent processing, and cutting-edge algorithms.
At the heart of this invention lies an optical system which employs a laser source modulated at a specific frequency to record gas concentration measurements from a target area. This data is then meticulously processed and analyzed using specially designed algorithms.
One of the most remarkable features of this technology is its ability to filter anomalous gas concentration measurements. Bridger Photonics’ apparatus employs a noise model that adapts to the measurement conditions, ensuring the accuracy of the detected anomalies. By discarding or modifying measurements above a threshold, the apparatus identifies true gas plumes, leading to more reliable results.
The system does not stop at detection; it goes on to map the gas plume based on the spatial relationships of the anomalous measurements. This capability offers insights into the distribution and movement of the gas, enabling precise localization and source identification. The apparatus is even equipped to generate maps that display the confidence level of the detected gas plumes.
Bridger Photonics’ invention excels not only in accuracy but also in versatility. The apparatus can be mounted on a mobile platform, enabling it to cover vast areas while maintaining consistent data quality. This mobility makes it ideal for applications ranging from industrial leak detection to environmental monitoring.
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