Patent ID: 7401493
Filing Date: 2008-07-22
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method of calibrating at least one sensor within a portable gas detector that has a gas inlet in fluid communication with the sensor, the method using an apparatus comprising a housing that includes: a) a surface for abutting against a detector to form a sealed gas interface between the surface and the detector, b) a source of pressurized calibration gas containing a known concentration of gases that the at least one sensor is responsive to, and c) a conduit for delivering the calibration gas to the interface between the detector and the housing, the method comprising: i) urging a gas detector against the surface of the housing such that the region of the detector containing the gas inlet abuts against the surface of the housing; ii) allowing calibration gas to flow from the source to the sealed gas interface at a predetermined rate, and iii) calibrating the at least one sensor within the detector such that the detector provides a reading corresponding to the known concentration of gases within the calibration gas, wherein a microprocessor within the detector controls the calibration and initiates the flow of calibration gas to the sealed gas interface, automatically calibrates the at least one sensor within the detector and the detector stops the flow of calibration gas following calibration.