Investigating chemical-based events that occur in vehicles

A method and apparatus for investigating a chemical-based event inside a vehicle without significant delay. A number of samples of air are collected at a number of locations inside the vehicle in response to a detection of the chemical-based event inside the vehicle. A number of chemical profiles for the number of samples are generated on-site using a portable chemical profiling device. A probable cause of the chemical-based event is identified using at least one of the number of chemical profiles.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The present disclosure relates generally to vehicles and, in particular, to chemical-based events, such as odors, that are detected in vehicles. Still more particularly, the present disclosure relates to a method, apparatus, and system for rapidly investigating these types of chemical-based events that occur in vehicles, such as aircraft, to determine the causes of these events in the vehicles.

Within a vehicle, multiple systems may be working both independently and together to ensure that the vehicle operates within selected tolerances. In some situations, an event may occur that affects operation of the vehicle in an undesirable manner. Depending on the type of event, the first detectable sign of the event may be an odor within the vehicle or a physical reaction by one or persons onboard the vehicle. It may be important to be able to quickly identify the event that caused the odor or physical reaction. For example, if the cause of the odor or physical reaction is an issue with a particular part or system in the vehicle, identifying this cause quickly may allow the part or system to be more quickly repaired or replaced as needed.

As one example, the vehicle may take the form of an aircraft. During flight, an event that occurs within an environmental system of the aircraft may cause an odor to be detected by a passenger or crew member. This odor may be caused by changes in the air inside the aircraft resulting from the event that occurs within the environmental system. The changes in the aircraft may include, for example, without limitation, an introduction of one or more chemical compounds into the air inside the aircraft, a change in the proportional concentrations of one or more chemical compounds in the air inside the aircraft, or some combination thereof.

Analysis of the one or more chemical compounds causing the odor detected may provide an indication of the type of event that has occurred. However, with some currently available systems, identifying the one or more chemical compounds that are causing the odor may be more difficult, time-consuming, and in some cases, more expensive than desired. With currently available methods and systems for identifying the chemical compounds causing the odor, investigation of the odor may not be able to be performed until several hours or even days after the initial detection of the odor. In situations where the odor is intermittent, the delayed identification may hamper identifying the cause of the odor and the location of this cause.

Currently available systems may be unable to (1) rapidly identify the one or more chemical compounds causing a chemical-based event that occurs inside a vehicle; (2) link these chemical compounds to the chemical-based event; (3) and link these chemical compounds to the cause of the event, while still onboard the vehicle. As one example, currently available systems may require that samples of air from inside an aircraft be taken to a laboratory for analysis. Typically, the laboratory is located remotely relative to the location of the aircraft. For example, the laboratory may be located away from the runway or airport gate at which the aircraft is located, many miles from the airport at which the aircraft is located, or in a different city or state.

Consequently, the overall process involved in identifying the chemical compounds causing the odor and linking these chemical compounds to the event that caused the odor may take days or weeks, thereby reducing the likelihood of detecting the cause of the odor. Therefore, it would be desirable to have a method and apparatus that take into account at least some of the issues discussed above, as well as other possible issues.

SUMMARY

In one illustrative embodiment, a method for investigating a chemical-based event inside a vehicle without significant delay is provided. A number of samples of air are collected at a number of locations inside the vehicle in response to a detection of the chemical-based event inside the vehicle. A number of chemical profiles for the number of samples are generated on-site using a portable chemical profiling device. A probable cause of the chemical-based event is identified using at least one of the number of chemical profiles.

In another illustrative embodiment, a method for investigating a chemical-based event inside an aircraft without significant delay is provided. A number of samples of air are collected at a number of locations inside the aircraft in response to a detection of the chemical-based event inside the aircraft. A number of chemical profiles for the number of samples are generated on-site using a portable chemical profiling device. A probable cause of the chemical-based event is identified using at least one of the number of chemical profiles.

In another illustrative embodiment, a chemical investigation system comprises a portable chemical profiling device, a database, and a cause identification system. The portable chemical profiling device collects a number of samples of air at a number of locations inside a vehicle in response to a detection of a chemical-based event inside the vehicle. The portable chemical profiling device generates a number of chemical profiles for the number of samples on-site using the portable chemical profiling device. The database stores a plurality of reference chemical profiles associated with a plurality of known causes of chemical-based events in the vehicle. The cause identification system identifies a probable cause of the chemical-based event using at least one of the number of chemical profiles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account different considerations. For example, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that it may be desirable to investigate an odor that is detected inside a vehicle, such as an aircraft, and determine the cause of that odor without having to leave the vehicle or take samples of air from inside the vehicle to a remotely located laboratory. In particular, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that it may be desirable to have the capability to investigate an odor that is detected inside the vehicle by sampling the air inside the vehicle, analyzing these samples while still onboard the vehicle, and determining the cause of the odor while still onboard the vehicle.

Further, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that, in some cases, when the odor is detected inside a vehicle, such as an aircraft, during flight of the aircraft, it may be desirable to investigate the odor during flight prior to landing. Depending on the cause of the odor, this type of early investigation may enable crew members to quickly locate the cause of the odor, perform the operations needed to manage the odor, restore air quality, perform repairs, or perform some combination thereof, as needed. When the aircraft is a passenger aircraft, this type of early investigation and management may improve the overall experience, and in some cases safety, of the passengers onboard the aircraft for the remainder of their flight, and otherwise prevent disturbances during the flight.

The illustrative embodiments also recognize and take into account that the transportation of certain types of cargo may require that certain systems onboard an aircraft operate in a certain manner. For example, the transportation of certain types of cargo may require that a selected environmental state be maintained within a particular portion or enclosed area within the aircraft. This selected environmental state may include, for example, without limitation, a particular air temperature or range of temperatures, a particular air content, or some other type of property.

In one example, an event occurring within the environmental system maintaining this environmental state may cause an odor to be detected or a physical reaction to be experienced by a crew member or passenger of the aircraft prior to takeoff, during flight, or after landing. Early investigation and management of the odor or physical reaction, without significant delay, may help, for example, the crew members identify any undesired deviations from the selected environmental state and manage the environmental system to help manage the selected environmental state.

Additionally, the illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that it may be desirable to have a capability of investigating a chemical-based event, such as the detection of an odor, onboard a vehicle during any stage in the lifecycle of the vehicle in a manner that provides immediate or near-immediate results. In other words, the results may be provided without significant delay. As one illustrative example, during certification of an aircraft, testing of the aircraft pre-service, testing of the aircraft in-service, or other operations, being able to investigate a chemical-based event that occurs during one of these operations and identify the cause of the chemical-based event on-site may reduce and, in some cases, eliminate the need for further off-site investigation or laboratory testing. Consequently, this type of investigation may enable these operations to continue to be performed without significant delay.

Thus, the illustrative embodiments provide a method, apparatus, and system for investigating a chemical-based event, such as an odor, inside a vehicle. In one illustrative example, a number of samples of air may be collected at a number of locations inside the vehicle in response to a detection of the chemical-based event inside the vehicle. A number of chemical profiles for the number of samples may be generated on-site using a portable chemical profiling device. For example, when the vehicle is an aircraft, both the collection of the samples and the generation of the chemical profiles for the samples may be performed onboard the aircraft. Thereafter, a probable cause of the chemical-based event may be identified using at least one of the number of chemical profiles generated. Depending on the implementation, the identification of this probable cause may also be performed on-site.

In this manner, a chemical-based event, such as the detection of an odor or an experiencing of a physical reaction by a person onboard the aircraft, may be investigated substantially completely while onboard the aircraft. The type of investigation process provided by the illustrative embodiments may reduce the overall time, expense, and effort associated with investigating these types of chemical-based events. The illustrative embodiments provide a technical solution to the problem of how to quickly, accurately, and easily investigate and identify the cause of a chemical-based event that occurs inside an aircraft.

Referring now to the figures and, in particular, with reference toFIG. 1, an illustration of an isometric view of an aircraft having an exposed fuselage is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, aircraft100may be an example of a vehicle in which a chemical-based event has occurred.

As depicted, aircraft100may include wing102, wing104, fuselage106, nose portion108, and tail portion110. Engine system112and engine system114may be attached to wing102and wing104, respectively. A chemical-based event, such as chemical-based event116, may occur in response to an event related to any one or more of the components or systems in wing102, wing104, fuselage106, nose portion108, tail portion110, engine system112, engine system114, or combination thereof.

For example, during flight, chemical-based event116may occur within passenger cabin120, which is located inside fuselage106of aircraft100. Chemical-based event116may occur most strongly within area118inside passenger cabin120. In one illustrative example, chemical-based event116may be the detection of an odor within passenger cabin120by one or more of passengers122during fight of aircraft100. The odor may be most strongly detected within area118.

In another illustrative example, chemical-based event116may be a physical reaction experienced by one or more passengers during the flight of aircraft100. The physical reaction may take the form of, for example, without limitation, watery eyes, a headache, a skin-related symptom, or some other type of physical reaction. In other illustrative examples, chemical-based event116may include the detection of multiple physical reactions.

The cause of chemical-based event116may be unknown. Further, the location of that cause may be unknown. A portable chemical profiling device, such as portable chemical profiling device200inFIG. 2described below, may be used to investigate chemical-based event116.

Turning now toFIG. 2, an illustration of an enlarged view of area118fromFIG. 1is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted, portable chemical profiling device200may be used to investigate chemical-based event116inside area118.

Portable chemical profiling device200has sampling element206. Investigator202may use sampling element206of portable chemical profiling device200to take samples of air204inside passenger cabin120. Investigator202may be a technician, an engineer, a mechanic, a crew member, or some other type of human operator.

In this illustrative example, investigator202may move in the direction of arrow205towards area118where chemical-based event116is strongest to take samples of air204within area118. Any number of samples may be taken. For example, one sample, two samples, ten samples, twenty samples, forty samples, or some other number of samples may be taken.

In some situations, it may be desirable to have a non-human perform the investigation of chemical-based event116. Thus, although investigator202is depicted as a human being in this illustrative example, investigator202may take the form of a robotic operator in other examples. For example, investigator202may be a robotic vehicle having a robotic arm used to hold sampling element206.

Portable chemical profiling device200may generate a chemical profile for each of the samples collected without significant delay. For example, portable chemical profiling device200may generate a chemical profile for each sample collected within seconds or minutes of obtaining the sample. In this illustrative example, portable chemical profiling device200may have a sensitivity of at least a parts-per-billion sensitivity. Each of the samples collected using sampling element206may have a volume sufficient to identify a number of chemical compounds in the sample based on the corresponding chemical profile generated. The chemical profiles generated by portable chemical profiling device200may be used by cause identification system208to identify a probable cause of chemical-based event116.

In this illustrative example, cause identification system208is implemented on laptop computer210. Laptop computer210may be configured for the special purpose of identifying the probable causes of chemical-based events based off of chemical profiles generated by portable chemical profiling device200. Although laptop computer210is depicted inFIG. 2as being used with portable chemical profiling device200, cause identification system208on laptop computer210may be configured for use with other portable chemical profiling devices implemented in a manner similar to portable chemical profiling device200.

In one illustrative example, cause identification system208may use a database stored on laptop computer210to identify the probable cause of chemical-based event116. In another illustrative example, cause identification system208may be configured to communicate wirelessly with another computer, server, or system located remotely and on which the database is stored to perform the identification.

Together, cause identification system208and portable chemical profiling device200form chemical investigation system212. The database may be considered part of or separate from chemical investigation system212depending on the implementation. Chemical investigation system212may be an example of one manner in which chemical investigation system400described inFIG. 4below may be implemented.

With reference now toFIG. 3, an illustration of an investigation environment is depicted in the form of a block diagram in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, investigation environment300may be an example of an environment in which an investigation of chemical-based event302may be performed. Area118inside passenger cabin120of aircraft100inFIGS. 1-2may be an example of one type of investigation environment300. Chemical-based event116inFIGS. 1-2may be an example of one type of chemical-based event302.

Vehicle304may take the form of aircraft303in this illustrative example. Aircraft100inFIGS. 1-2may be an example of one implementation for aircraft303. In other illustrative examples, vehicle304may take the form of a helicopter, a hovercraft, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a ship, or some other type of air, water, space, or ground vehicle.

As depicted, event306may occur in vehicle304. Event306may take the form of, for example, without limitation, a change in the operation of a system in vehicle304, a change in the state of vehicle304, an introduction of a foreign substance inside vehicle304, or some other type of event. For example, event306may be an off-gassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a leakage of battery cell fluid, a problem with a valve, a system being shut-off at the wrong time, a system being turned on at the wrong time, or some other type of event.

Event306may lead to chemical-based event302occurring within interior308of vehicle304. When vehicle304takes the form of aircraft303, interior308may be the inside of fuselage310of aircraft303. For example, event306may result in number of chemical compounds312being released into air313within interior308of fuselage310of aircraft303. Number of chemical compounds312may, in turn, lead to chemical-based event302. As used herein, a “number of” items may include one or more items. In this manner, number of chemical compounds312may include one or more chemical compounds.

Portable chemical profiling device314may be used to investigate chemical-based event302. Portable chemical profiling device200inFIG. 2may be an example of one implementation for portable chemical profiling device314.

In one illustrative example, portable chemical profiling device314may take the form of portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry device316. Portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry device316may combine the techniques of gas liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify the different chemical substances within a sample.

Portable chemical profiling device314may be configured to collect samples and generate chemical profiles for those samples. Portable chemical profiling device314may have sensitivity317. Sensitivity317may also be referred to as a quantification limit.

In one illustrative example, portable chemical profiling device314may have at least parts-per-billion sensitivity318. In other words, portable chemical profiling device314may be capable of identifying the presence of chemical substances in a sample that are present in concentrations of one parts-per-billion (ppb) or less than one parts-per-billion within the sample. In other illustrative examples, portable chemical profiling device314may have parts-per-trillion (ppt) sensitivity.

In still other illustrative examples, sensitivity317may be quantified in micrograms per liter (μg/L). In other words, portable chemical profiling device314may be capable of distinguishing chemical compounds having concentrations in the range of micrograms per liter (μg/L).

Portable chemical profiling device314may include sampling element320. Sampling element206inFIG. 2may be an example of one implementation for sampling element320. Sampling element320may be used to collect samples of air313.

Sampling element320may be capable of collecting samples, such as sample322, having volume324. In particular, sampling element320may collect sample322with volume324sufficient to identify number of chemical compounds312in sample322based on a corresponding chemical profile generated for sample322by portable chemical profiling device314. Volume324may be in the range of microliters (μL), milliliters (mL), tens of milliliters, hundreds of milliliters, or liters depending on the implementation.

Portable chemical profiling device314may be implemented using any gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC/MS) device capable of being carried by a person, capable of collecting samples with volume324sufficient for identifying number of chemical compounds312accurately, having at least parts-per-billion sensitivity318, and capable of measuring multiple chemical compounds simultaneously. As one illustrative example, the HAPSITE® Smart Plus Chemical Identification System, provided by INFICON, may be used to implement portable chemical profiling device314. The HAPSITE® Smart Plus Chemical Identification System is a portable gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer.

In this manner, portable chemical profiling device314may be used to perform investigation326of chemical-based event302in response to detection328of chemical-based event302. Portable chemical profiling device314enables investigation326to be performed soon after detection328of chemical-based event302. For example, when vehicle304takes the form of aircraft303, portable chemical profiling device314may be stored onboard aircraft303such that investigation326may be initiated within seconds or minutes of detection328.

Depending on the type of event306that occurs with vehicle304, chemical-based event302may comprise at least one of odor330or physical reaction332. Physical reaction332may be the reaction of a human to number of chemical compounds312present in air313. Physical reaction332may take the form of, for example, without limitation, watery eyes, a headache, a skin-related symptom, some other type of physical reaction, or some other type of physical reaction.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of the items in the list may be needed. The item may be a particular object, thing, action, process, or category. In other words, “at least one of” means any combination of items or number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list may be required.

For example, “at least one of item A, item B, or item C” or “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may mean item A; item A and item B; item B; item A, item B, and item C; or item B and item C. In some cases, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may mean, for example, without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or some other suitable combination.

Thus, detection328of at least one of odor330or physical reaction332may include the detection of a single odor, a single physical reaction, one odor and one physical reaction, two distinct types of odor and one physical reaction, one odor and three types of physical reactions, or some other combination. In other illustrative examples, chemical-based event302may include some other type of detection328in addition to at least one of odor330or physical reaction332.

Prior to investigation326, cause334of chemical-based event302may be unknown. Additionally, in some cases, location336of cause334may be unknown. In some illustrative examples, cause334may also be referred to as the source of chemical-based event302.

As depicted in one example, cause334may be event306. However, in other illustrative examples, cause334may be an object. An example of one manner in which investigation326is conducted to identify cause334and location336of cause334is described in greater detail inFIG. 4below.

With reference now toFIG. 4, an illustration of investigation326fromFIG. 3is depicted in the form of a block diagram in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Investigation326may be performed using chemical investigation system400. Chemical investigation system400includes both portable chemical profiling device314fromFIG. 3and cause identification system402. Cause identification system402may be an example of one implementation for cause identification system208described inFIG. 2. When cause334is referred to as a source, cause identification system402may be referred to as a source identification system.

Cause identification system402may be implemented using hardware, software, or both. When software is used, the operations performed by cause identification system402may be implemented using, for example, without limitation, program code configured to run on a processor unit. When firmware is used, the operations performed by cause identification system402may be implemented using, for example, without limitation, program code and data and stored in persistent memory to run on a processor unit.

When hardware is employed, the hardware may include one or more circuits that operate to perform the operations performed by cause identification system402. Depending on the implementation, the hardware may take the form of a circuit system, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some other suitable type of hardware device configured to perform any number of operations.

A programmable logic device may be configured to perform certain operations. The device may be permanently configured to perform these operations or may be reconfigurable. A programmable logic device may take the form of, for example, without limitation, a programmable logic array, a programmable array logic, a field programmable logic array, a field programmable gate array, or some other type of programmable hardware device.

In some illustrative examples, the operations and processes performed by cause identification system402may be performed using organic components integrated with inorganic components. In some cases, the operations and processes may be performed by entirely organic components, excluding a human being. As one illustrative example, circuits in organic semiconductors may be used to perform these operations and processes.

In one illustrative example, cause identification system402may be implemented in computer system404. Laptop computer210inFIG. 2may be an example of one implementation for computer system404. Although cause identification system208is depicted being implemented on laptop computer210, cause identification system208may be implemented on a different type of computer system or processor unit. For example, cause identification system208may be implemented on a tablet computer or a hybrid laptop-tablet computer in some illustrative examples.

Depending on the implementation, computer system404may be stored inside vehicle304for easy and quick access to cause identification system402such that investigation326may be performed soon after detection328of chemical-based event302inFIG. 3. Of course, in some illustrative examples, computer system404may be stored off-board until chemical-based event302has been detected.

In response to detection328of chemical-based event302as described inFIG. 3, investigator430may perform investigation326using chemical investigation system400. Investigator430may be, for example, but is not limited to, a passenger of vehicle304, an operator of vehicle304, an engineer, a technician, a chemical expert, a systems expert, or some other type of investigator interested in determining cause334and location336of cause334of chemical-based event302.

In particular, investigator430may begin by using portable chemical profiling device314of chemical investigation system400to collect number of samples406from number of locations408within interior308of vehicle304fromFIG. 3. Number of locations408for sampling may be selected from within area409inside vehicle304in which chemical-based event302inFIG. 3is most strongly detected. For example, without limitation, area409may be the space within which odor330inFIG. 3is most strongly detected or where physical reaction332is most strongly experienced.

Portable chemical profiling device314may generate number of chemical profiles410for number of samples406on-site. In particular, portable chemical profiling device314generates a corresponding chemical profile for each of number of samples406to form number of chemical profiles410.

Sample322fromFIG. 3may be an example of one of number of samples406. Chemical profile412in number of chemical profiles410may be a corresponding chemical profile for sample322. Chemical profile412may include a breakdown of the various chemical compounds within sample322and the concentration of each of those chemical compounds in sample322.

Portable chemical profiling device314is used to generate number of chemical profiles410for number of samples406on-site. In other words, number of chemical profiles410may be generated inside vehicle304. When vehicle304takes the form of aircraft303, as described inFIG. 3, number of chemical profiles410may be generated while still onboard aircraft303after collecting number of samples406without significant delay. For example, number of chemical profiles410may be generated within seconds or minutes of obtaining number of samples406, depending on the number of samples406collected.

Number of chemical profiles410may be sent to cause identification system402for processing. In one illustrative example, portable chemical profiling device314may be configured to send number of chemical profiles410directly to cause identification system402on computer system404using any number of wired communications links, wireless communications links, optical communications links, or combination thereof. Depending on the implementation, computer system404is located onboard vehicle304. In other cases, computer system404may be located off-board, or off of vehicle304.

Cause identification system402uses at least one of number of chemical profiles410and database418to identify probable cause414of chemical-based event302inFIG. 3. When cause334is referred to as a source, probable cause414may be referred to as a probable source.

In some cases, depending on the type of probable cause414identified and the information stored in database418, cause identification system402may also identify probable location415for probable cause414. In one illustrative example, probable location415may be a general location, such as a general area inside vehicle304. In another example, probable location415may be a more precise location, such as a location at, on, or around some object or component in vehicle304. In yet another illustrative example, probable location415may be a two-dimensional or three-dimensional location with respect to a reference coordinate system for vehicle304. For example, the probable location415may be a two-dimensional or three-dimensional location with respect to an aircraft coordinate system for aircraft303inFIG. 3. In some cases, once probable cause414and probable location415have been identified, investigator430may then perform further investigation to confirm whether probable cause414is indeed cause334of chemical-based event302and whether probable location415is indeed location336of cause334.

In this illustrative example, database418may be located on computer system404. However, in other illustrative examples, database418may be located on some other computer, server, or other storage device located remotely with respect to computer system404. Cause identification system402on computer system404may be configured to access and interact with database418using any number of wired communications links, wireless communications links, optical communications links, or combination thereof.

For example, cause identification system402may select a particular chemical profile, such as chemical profile412, from number of chemical profiles410for processing. Cause identification system402compares chemical profile412to plurality of reference chemical profiles420stored on database418to determine whether the particular chemical profile412matches any of plurality of reference chemical profiles420. Plurality of reference chemical profiles420may be associated with a plurality of known causes of chemical-based events. In particular, each of plurality of reference chemical profiles420may be associated with at least one of a known chemical-based event or a known cause.

Reference chemical profile424may be an example of one of plurality of reference chemical profiles420. Reference chemical profile424may be a chemical profile for one or more chemical compounds known to cause at least one of an odor or physical reaction. Further, reference chemical profile424may be associated with known cause426of the one or more chemical compounds that caused the at least one of the odor or physical reaction.

If chemical profile412substantially matches, for example, reference chemical profile424within selected tolerances, known cause426associated with reference chemical profile424may then be identified as probable cause414of chemical-based event302. In some cases, database418may also include known location427for known cause426that is then identified as probable location415of probable cause414.

In other illustrative examples, probable location415may be identified prior to the identification of probable cause414. For example, probable location415of probable cause414may be identified based on the location inside vehicle304where sample322corresponding to chemical profile412was collected. In some illustrative examples, probable location415may be identified as at or around the location at which chemical-based event302was most strongly detected. In one illustrative example, investigator430may record the location of where chemical-based event302was detected, or most strongly detected depending on the implementation, as probable location415.

Depending on the implementation, identification of probable location415may help narrow down the potential causes for chemical-based event302from which probable cause414is selected. As one illustrative example, investigator430may record the location at which chemical-based event302was most strongly detected as probable location415and enter probable location415as input into cause identification system402. Cause identification system402may use probable location415to filter or narrow the reference chemical profiles in plurality of reference chemical profiles420in database418to which chemical profile412is compared.

Cause identification system402may obtain operation configuration422of vehicle304at a time at which chemical-based event302was detected. Operation configuration422may then be linked to cause334of chemical-based event302. Operation configuration422may include the configuration or state of each of various systems and components in vehicle304.

As one illustrative example, when vehicle304takes the form of aircraft303, operation configuration422may be flight configuration423for aircraft303. Flight configuration423may include, for example, without limitation, the state of the flight control system, the configuration of the different control surfaces of aircraft303, the state of the engine systems of aircraft303, and the state or configuration of other types of systems of aircraft303at the time chemical-based event302was detected. Flight configuration423may be obtained from, for example, without limitation, a flight control system onboard aircraft303.

In some cases, none of number of chemical profiles410may substantially match a reference chemical profile in plurality of reference chemical profiles420within selected tolerances. In these cases, further testing may need to be performed to identify cause334. An example of one manner in which further testing may be performed to identify cause334is described in greater detail in the flowchart depicted inFIG. 7further below.

Once cause334of chemical-based event302is identified, at least a portion of at least one of number of chemical profiles410may be added to database418as a new reference chemical profile in plurality of reference chemical profiles420and cause334added to database418as being a new known cause associated with the new chemical profile in database418. In this manner, database418may be dynamic and built over time to contain reference chemical profiles for a variety of different causes of chemical-based events.

The illustrations of investigation environment300inFIG. 3and investigation326and chemical investigation system400inFIG. 4are not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented. Other components in addition to or in place of the ones illustrated may be used. Some components may be optional. Also, the blocks are presented to illustrate some functional components. One or more of these blocks may be combined, divided, or combined and divided into different blocks when implemented in an illustrative embodiment. For example, although investigation environment300is described as being located inside a vehicle, investigation environment300may be located inside a satellite station, an offshore oil platform, or some other type of environment or area.

With reference now toFIG. 5, an illustration of a process for investigating a chemical-based event inside a vehicle is depicted in the form of a flowchart in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated inFIG. 5may be implemented using chemical investigation system400inFIG. 4.

The process may begin by collecting a number of samples of air at a number of locations inside the vehicle in response to a detection of the chemical-based event inside the vehicle (operation500). The collection of the number of samples collected in operation500may be performed using, for example, portable chemical profiling device314inFIGS. 3-4. In one illustrative example, the vehicle may be an aircraft, such as aircraft100inFIG. 1. In another illustrative example, the vehicle may take the form of a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a ship, or some other type of vehicle.

In some cases, the number of samples may be collected while the vehicle is in operation. As one illustrative example, when the vehicle is an aircraft, the number of samples may be collected while the aircraft is in flight. In another example, when the vehicle is a space shuttle, the number of samples may be generated while the space shuttle is in flight in space beyond the atmosphere of the Earth.

Thereafter, a number of chemical profiles may be generated for the number of samples on-site using a portable chemical profiling device (operation502). Generating the number of chemical profiles on-site in operation502means generating the number of chemical profiles while onboard the vehicle. The number of chemical profiles may be generated without significant delay. For example, the number of chemical profiles may be generated within seconds, minutes, or tens of minutes.

A probable cause of the chemical-based event may then be identified using the number of chemical profiles (operation504), with the process terminating thereafter. In some cases, a probable location of the probable cause of the chemical-based event may also be identified in operation504.

With reference now toFIG. 6, an illustration of a process for investigating a chemical-based event inside a vehicle is depicted in the form of a flowchart in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated inFIG. 5may be implemented using chemical investigation system400inFIG. 4and, in particular, portable chemical profiling device314inFIGS. 3 and 4.

The process begins by receiving a report that a chemical-based event has been detected inside a vehicle (operation600). In operation600, the chemical-based event may comprise at least one of an odor inside the vehicle or a physical reaction of a human to a number of chemical compounds present in the air inside the vehicle.

Next, a location of a cause of the chemical-based event is identified (operation602). In one illustrative example, this location may be a probable location of the probable cause of the chemical-based event. In operation602, the location may be a general location inside the vehicle. An example of one manner in which the location of the cause of the chemical-based event may be identified when the vehicle is an aircraft is described in greater detail inFIG. 8below.

Thereafter, an area inside the vehicle in which the chemical-based event is most strongly detected is identified (operation604). In operation604, the area identified may be the area in which the chemical-based event was strongest when the chemical-based event was first detected or the area in which the chemical-based event is most strongly detected by an investigator at the time of investigation.

Next, a location within the area at which the chemical-based event is most strongly detected is identified (operation606). A sample of air is collected from the number of locations inside the vehicle using a portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry device having at least a parts-per-billion sensitivity (operation608).

Thereafter, a chemical profile is generated for the sample on-site using the portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry device (operation610). In other words, a chemical profile may be generated by the portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry device for the sample onboard the vehicle without significant delay after sample collection. The chemical profile may be comprised of chromatogram/mass spectral data for the corresponding sample. The sample may have a volume sufficient to identify a number of chemical compounds in the sample based on the corresponding chemical profile.

Thereafter, the chemical profile may be compared with a plurality of reference chemical profiles stored in a database (operation612). A determination is made as to whether the chemical profile substantially matches any of the plurality of reference chemical profiles within selected tolerances (operation614). In making this determination in operation614, a portion of the chemical profile is identified as corresponding to the chemical-based event in one illustrative example. This portion of the chemical profile is compared to the plurality of reference chemical profiles in operation614.

If the chemical profile substantially matches any of the plurality of reference chemical profiles, the known cause associated with the matching reference chemical profile is identified as the probable cause of the chemical-based event (operation616), with the process terminating thereafter. In some cases, the probable cause identified in operation616may be considered to be the cause of the chemical-based event. In other cases, further investigation may need to be performed to confirm whether or not the probable cause is indeed the cause of the chemical-based event. In this manner, the cause and the general location of the cause of the chemical-based event may be identified. Any number of actions may then be taken to address the cause of the chemical-based event.

With reference again to operation614, if the chemical profile does not substantially match any of the plurality of reference chemical profiles, further testing is performed to identify the probable cause of the chemical-based event (operation618), with the process terminating thereafter. An example of one manner in which operation618may be performed is described in greater detail inFIG. 7below.

With reference now toFIG. 7, an illustration of a process for performing further testing to identify the cause of a chemical-based event is depicted in the form of a flowchart in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated inFIG. 7may be an example of one manner in which operation618may be performed.

The process begins by obtaining an operation configuration for the vehicle at the time the chemical-based event was first detected (operation700). In some cases, this time may be noted on the report received in operation600inFIG. 6. When the vehicle is an aircraft, the operation configuration may be referred to as the flight configuration of the aircraft.

Next, a determination is made as to whether the chemical-based event is reproducible within selected tolerances when the vehicle is made to have the operation configuration (operation702). If the chemical-based event is reproducible, the operation configuration of the vehicle is linked to the chemical-based event (operation704). The process then proceeds to operation706described below. With reference again to operation702, if the chemical-based event is not reproducible, the process proceeds directly to operation706described below.

The chemical profile for the sample collected is then used to identify a set of chemical compounds that potentially caused the chemical-based event (operation706). In one illustrative example, in operation706, the set of chemical compounds corresponding to a portion of the chemical profile corresponding to the chemical-based event is identified. The set of chemical compounds may include one or more chemical compounds.

A determination is then made as to whether the portion of the chemical profile corresponding to the chemical-based event is substantially reproducible using the set of chemical compounds (operation708). If the portion of the chemical profile is not reproducible, a new set of chemical compounds that potentially caused the chemical-based event is identified based on chemical profile (operation710), with the process then returning to operation708as described above.

With reference again to operation708, if the portion of the chemical profile is reproducible, the set of chemical compounds is identified as causing the chemical-based event (operation712). The set of chemical compounds may then be traced back to a particular cause inside the vehicle (operation714). The portion of the chemical profile for this set of chemical compounds is then added to the database as a new reference chemical profile and the particular cause is added to the database as a new known cause associated with the new reference chemical profile (operation716), with the process terminating thereafter. In this manner, the database may be a dynamic database in the new reference chemical profiles and associated known causes may be added to the database.

With reference now toFIG. 8, an illustration of a process for identifying the location of the cause of a chemical-based event that is detected inside an aircraft is depicted in the form of a flowchart in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated inFIG. 8may be an example of one manner in which operation602inFIG. 6may be performed when the vehicle is an aircraft. Further, this process may be used when the chemical-based event is an odor.

The process begins by determining whether an odor is coming from air vents or gaspers in the aircraft (operation800). Gaspers are the air outlets above passenger seats in passenger aircraft.

If the odor is not coming from the air vents or the gaspers, the location of the cause of the odor is identified as being outside of the environmental control system for the aircraft (operation802), with the process terminating thereafter. Otherwise, if the odor is coming from the air vents or the gaspers, a determination is made as to whether the odor is isolated to a flightdeck of the aircraft (operation804).

If the odor is isolated to the flightdeck, the location of the cause of the odor is identified as within a left air-conditioning pack of an environmental control system of the aircraft (operation806), with the process terminating thereafter. Otherwise, if the odor is not isolated to the flightdeck, the location of the cause of the odor is identified as within both the left and a right air-conditioning pack of the environmental control system of the aircraft (operation808), with the process terminating thereafter. In this manner, a general location of the cause of the odor may be identified.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodiments illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of some possible implementations of apparatuses and methods in an illustrative embodiment. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams may represent a module, a segment, a function, a portion of an operation or step, some combination thereof.

Turning now toFIG. 9, an illustration of a data processing system is depicted in the form of a block diagram in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Data processing system900may be used to implement computer system404inFIG. 4. As depicted, data processing system900includes communications framework902, which provides communications between processor unit904, storage devices906, communications unit908, input/output unit910, and display912. In some cases, communications framework902may be implemented as a bus system.

Processor unit904is configured to execute instructions for software to perform a number of operations. Processor unit904may comprise at least one of a number of processors, a multi-processor core, or some other type of processor, depending on the implementation. In some cases, processor unit904may take the form of a hardware unit, such as a circuit system, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some other suitable type of hardware unit.

Instructions for the operating system, applications and programs run by processor unit904may be located in storage devices906. Storage devices906may be in communication with processor unit904through communications framework902. As used herein, a storage device, also referred to as a computer readable storage device, is any piece of hardware capable of storing information on a temporary basis, a permanent basis, or both. This information may include, but is not limited to, data, program code, other information, or some combination thereof.

Memory914and persistent storage916are examples of storage devices906. Memory914may take the form of, for example, a random access memory or some type of volatile or non-volatile storage device. Persistent storage916may comprise any number of components or devices. For example, persistent storage916may comprise a hard drive, a flash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, or some combination of the above. The media used by persistent storage916may or may not be removable.

Communications unit908allows data processing system900to communicate with other data processing systems, devices, or both. Communications unit908may provide communications using physical communications links, wireless communications links, or both.

Input/output unit910allows input to be received from and output to be sent to other devices connected to data processing system900. For example, input/output unit910may allow user input to be received through a keyboard, a mouse, some other type of input device, or a combination thereof. As another example, input/output unit910may allow output to be sent to a printer connected to data processing system900.

Display912is configured to display information to a user. Display912may comprise, for example, without limitation, a monitor, a touch screen, a laser display, a holographic display, a virtual display device, some other type of display device, or a combination thereof.

In this illustrative example, the processes of the different illustrative embodiments may be performed by processor unit904using computer-implemented instructions. These instructions may be referred to as program code, computer usable program code, or computer readable program code and may be read and executed by one or more processors in processor unit904.

In these examples, program code918is located in a functional form on computer readable media920, which is selectively removable, and may be loaded onto or transferred to data processing system900for execution by processor unit904. Program code918and computer readable media920together form computer program product922. In this illustrative example, computer readable media920may be computer readable storage media924or computer readable signal media926.

Computer readable storage media924is a physical or tangible storage device used to store program code918rather than a medium that propagates or transmits program code918. Computer readable storage media924may be, for example, without limitation, an optical or magnetic disk or a persistent storage device that is connected to data processing system900.

Alternatively, program code918may be transferred to data processing system900using computer readable signal media926. Computer readable signal media926may be, for example, a propagated data signal containing program code918. This data signal may be an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, or some other type of signal that can be transmitted over physical communications links, wireless communications links, or both.

The illustration of data processing system900inFIG. 9is not meant to provide architectural limitations to the manner in which the illustrative embodiments may be implemented. The different illustrative embodiments may be implemented in a data processing system that includes components in addition to or in place of those illustrated for data processing system900. Further, components shown inFIG. 9may be varied from the illustrative examples shown.

The illustrative embodiments of the disclosure may be described in the context of aircraft manufacturing and service method1000as shown inFIG. 10and aircraft1100as shown inFIG. 11. Turning first toFIG. 10, an illustration of an aircraft manufacturing and service method is depicted in the form of a block diagram in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. During pre-production, aircraft manufacturing and service method1000may include specification and design1002of aircraft1100inFIG. 11and material procurement1004.

During production, component and subassembly manufacturing1006and system integration1008of aircraft1100inFIG. 11takes place. Thereafter, aircraft1100inFIG. 11may go through certification and delivery1010in order to be placed in service1012. While in service1012by a customer, aircraft1100inFIG. 11is scheduled for routine maintenance and service1014, which may include modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, and other maintenance or service.

With reference now toFIG. 11, an illustration of an aircraft is depicted in the form of a block diagram in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented. In this example, aircraft1100is produced by aircraft manufacturing and service method1000inFIG. 10and may include airframe1102with plurality of systems1104and interior1106. Examples of systems1104include one or more of propulsion system1108, electrical system1110, hydraulic system1112, and environmental system1114. Any number of other systems may be included. Although an aerospace example is shown, different illustrative embodiments may be applied to other industries, such as the automotive industry.

Apparatuses and methods embodied herein may be employed during at least one of the stages of aircraft manufacturing and service method1000inFIG. 10. In particular, chemical investigation system400fromFIG. 4, and in particular, portable chemical profiling device314described inFIGS. 3-4, may be used during any one of the stages of aircraft manufacturing and service method1000. For example, without limitation, chemical investigation system400fromFIG. 4may be used to perform investigations of undesired odors that occur during operation of or testing of aircraft1100during at least one of component and subassembly manufacturing1006, system integration1008, certification and delivery1010, in service1012, routine maintenance and service1014, or some other stage of aircraft manufacturing and service method1000.

In one illustrative example, components or subassemblies produced in component and subassembly manufacturing1006inFIG. 10may be fabricated or manufactured in a manner similar to components or subassemblies produced while aircraft1100is in service1012inFIG. 10. As yet another example, one or more apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof may be utilized during production stages, such as component and subassembly manufacturing1006and system integration1008inFIG. 10. One or more apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof may be utilized while aircraft1100is in service1012, during maintenance and service1014inFIG. 10, or both. The use of a number of the different illustrative embodiments may substantially expedite the assembly of and reduce the cost of aircraft1100.