Patent ID: 7069768
Filing Date: 2006-07-04
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A gas analyzer comprising: a measuring volume for through flow of a sample gas mixture, at least one gas component of which is to be analyzed for determining its concentration in said mixture, and having first and second transparent ends; a radiation source for providing a beam of electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength range, said beam directed to pass said measuring volume through said first and second transparent ends thereof; a heat sink for said radiation source; at least one thermal detector having an active radiation detecting sensor element with at least one support structure and receiving the radiation exiting said measuring volume, said thermal detector having a reference sensor element within the same support structure and protected from said radiation, said thermal detector generating an output signal indicative of a property of said at least one gas component of said mixture in the measuring volume; a thermal mass: formed of a material having high thermal conductance; having a cavity; being at least in partial thermal contact with said support structure inside said cavity; and extending towards the radiation source; a first thermal barrier between the heat sink and the thermal mass; a second thermal barrier surrounding the thermal mass and extending towards the heat sink; and shield formed of a material or materials having high thermal conductance; said shield being at least in thermal contact with said heat sink, and covering said second thermal barrier.