New Data Analysis Methods for Sensing Signals Toward Pump-Free Olfactory Sensors

Abstract

Not only a sensor itself but also a data processing method for sensing signals is an essential issue for realizing a practical artificial olfactory sensor. In this article, we explain data processing methods which utilize the concept of control engineering. We show some of the recent studies using membrane-type surface stress sensors (MSS) analyzed with the new data processing methods; we succeeded in identifying odors (gas species) simply by bringing a sensor chip close to samples, leading to a pump-free artificial olfactory sensor. Finally, we show a theoretical model of MSS and discuss the interpretation of sensing signals of MSS on the basis of nanomechanics and physical chemistry.