Abstract:
The present invention relates to a simple and reliable portable flashlight shaped instrument that combines in a first embodiment an array of a combination of ultraviolet, white and multicolor LED arrays in combination with a broad band hydrocarbon gas detector and, in a second embodiment, a combination of ultraviolet, white and infrared LED arrays. There is also a readily attachable collector cone with a plurality of magnifying lenses, which are removable and a kit assembly with an extender sleeve for the collector cone, and a collector cone heater chamber. Many types of hydrocarbons fluoresce under the influence of an ultraviolet light. This rugged constructed instrument will find trace amounts of suspect materials and is extremely easy to use. The built in gas detector is cable of detecting trace amounts of accelerants days after a fire.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     1. Field of the Invention  
         [0002]     The present invention relates to arson and forensic scanners as well as hydrocarbon gas detectors with detachable collector cones. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable detection instrument being a flashlight type apparatus with an array of LEDs including multicolored, white and ultraviolet LEDs with a hydrocarbon gas detector and a readily detachable collector cone with three different removable magnifier lenses as well as a kit assembly for arson and forensic investigations.  
         [0003]     2. The Prior Art  
         [0004]     U.S. Pat. No. 3,903,726 to Hirosawa et al. is directed to a gas detecting device for detecting alcohol fumes. The device of Hirosawa et al. has a tubular body with a gas inlet aperture and a battery-actuated suction fan for aspirating the gas over a gas-sensitive semiconductor element. The device also has an indicator lamp for emitting a signal in response to the semiconductor element sensing the presence of alcoholic fumes. The device is used primarily by a police officer to examine an operator of an automobile to determine the operator&#39;s level of intoxication.  
         [0005]     In U.S. Pat. No. 4,617,821 to Yokoyama et al. flashlight shaped gas detecting device is described. The device is utilized for detecting liquor contained in expired gas of driver of a car. There is an inlet described for sucking expired gas of an object person and an air blower for attracting the expired gas. A gas detecting element detects the liquor in the expired gas. The device further includes an illuminating section. The device provides two functions. It illuminates and detects. Accordingly, the device eliminates the need to hold a flashlight and a gas detecting device.  
         [0006]     U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,821 to LeZotte is a flashlight that has a light source and a detector. The detector detects emissions from the surroundings. The flashlight includes a speaker for outputting a tone. The tone has a frequency that is dependent on illuminates of a series of LED elements representing intensity of electromagnetic emissions. In one of the described embodiments, the flashlight includes infrared detectors for detecting infrared thermal emissions. The flashlight is designed to supplement a conventional flashlight in order to assist police officers and emergency personal to discover the whereabouts of a suspect at night in thick vegetation.  
         [0007]     U.S. Patent Application No. US 2002/0093649 to Brass illustrates and describes a flashlight shaped apparatus with at least one LED emitting near ultraviolet or ultraviolet radiation to excite a luminescent material for non-destructive fault detection. In other words, the apparatus uses light sources and dyes to locate faults in machinery. The dye is poured into a system such as an air conditioning unit and the LED emits ultraviolet radiation in a range of 385 to 465 nanometers to ruminate areas where faults such as leaks or stress fractures may be in the air conditioning unit.  
         [0008]     United States Patent Application No. US 2002/0223342 to Kilpstein et al. shows and describes a flashlight device with a plurality of lamps that have light emitting diodes for producing radiation suitable to excite fluorescent materials. The device is used for detecting leaks in systems such as refrigeration systems wherein the fluorescent materials is placed in the refrigeration system having fluid under pressure. The fluorescent material becomes a gas that can be seen by the device with the lamps in order to detect leaks.  
         [0009]     None of the noted prior art flashlight type devices can detect trace amounts of forensic evidence such as fingerprints, semen, saliva, or blood days after an incident and with the gas/hydrocarbon sensor trace amounts of accelerants can be detected days after a fire. Accordingly, a need exists for a portable flashlight shaped detector that can be utilized for forensic and arson investigations.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0010]     Ultraviolet light is a simple, reliable, cost effective method of heat detection that is too frequently over-looked in arson investigation. Ultraviolet light not only assists in rapidly locating accelerants residues, it also assists in locating the point of origin of the fire. The color, which accelerants glow is affected by heat exposure. In other words, the longer an accelerant is exposed to hear (i.e., the origin), the more differentiated its fluorescence color will be from other less exposed areas. Evidence of accelerants is almost always invisible to the naked eye after they have been absorbed in a fire. However, the areas tarnished by accelerants are easily discernible under ultraviolet light.  
         [0011]     Volatile hydrocarbons such as gasoline, kerosene and other petroleum fractions, benzene, acetone, grease, lard, vegetable oils, paints, and others fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light. In addition, ultraviolet light can be helpful in locating fragments incendiary devices since explosive wrappings are frequently fluorescent. The use of ultraviolet light enables the investigator to accurately identify locations where samples should be collected for further laboratory analysis. Samples collected in cans and plastic evidence bags can then be heated in warm water to from condensation. Latent accelerant residue may then be brought to the surface and seen under ultraviolet light.  
         [0012]     Ultraviolet light is not contingent upon wind conditions. However, in order to successfully use ultraviolet light at a fire scene, ambient light must be reduced to a minimum. Usually, this is done, by covering windows and other exposed areas, with an opaque sheeting such as black plastic. Thus, it is important to put collected samples in a properly sealed air-tight container, and properly label the evidence before dispatching and storing via the recommended procedures so as to not contaminate the collected material.  
         [0013]     Ultraviolet light is a band of wavelengths (electromagnetic radiation) between visible light and x-rays. Ultraviolet light is typically divided into three ranges, long-wave, which is 315 nm and above, mid-range, which is 280 nm-315 nm, and short-wave, which is 280 nm and below. The chief source of natural ultraviolet light is the sun. In fact, 9% of all energy emitted by the sun is ultraviolet, most of which is in the region of 300 nm to 400 nm. Fluorescence in materials is caused by some impurity, frequently referred t as “activators” or “activating agents.” All matter is made of atoms. All atoms are made of electrons which obit around a nucleus. In the case of many accelerants, if these electrons are exposed to ultraviolet light, they absorb energy, move violently, and jump outward form their normal orbit. As the electrons leave their orbit, another electron is pulled down form its orbit to maintain the electrical balance. This movement produces energy and it is this energy, which is seen as fluorescence. Fluorescence occurs only while the material is being activated by ultraviolet light. Phosphorescence occurs when a material retains and releases, in the form of visible light, some of the energy it receives during the period of activation called fluorescence, after the activating ultraviolet light sorce has been removed. This released radiation following the period of activation may persist for periods from a quarter of a second to a matter of many hours. The light given off during phosphorescence is quite dim compared to fluorescence. Thus, ultraviolet light can be or great assistance in bomb investigation. Many ingredients of explosives fluoresce, such as nitrates, sulfur, fuel oil, and paraffins. Metal fragments with traces of these residues can frequently be found with the use of ultraviolet light as well as Molotov cocktail type containers.  
         [0014]     Accordingly, a need exists for a simple and reliable portable flashlight shaped instrument that combines an array of at least eight ultraviolet LEDS and at least twenty-four colored LEDs in combination with a hydrocarbon gas detector. The portable detection instrument of the present invention combines an array of eight ultraviolet and eight white LEDs in combination with four red LEDs, four blue LEDs, four yellow LEDs and four green LEDs as well as a hydrocarbon detector. It is well known that many types of hydrocarbons fluoresce under the influence of ultraviolet and multicolor light. This rugged constructed instrument of the present invention detects trace amount of suspect materials and is extremely easy to use. The built in hydrocarbon gas detector is capable of detecting trace amounts of accelerants days after a fire, and because the detector of the present invention can be used with an environmental chamber assembly during field use, arson/forensic evidence can more readily be detected.  
         [0015]     Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide an apparatus for arson and forensic inspection, the apparatus includes an extremely rugged enclosure, a multitude of optical radiators, the multitude of optical radiators ranging from ultraviolet to infrared, a microprocessor positioned in the rugged enclosure for controlling the apparatus for arson and forensic inspection and infrared communication.  
         [0016]     It is another object of the invention to provide an apparatus having a rugged, flashlight like enclosure for containing a hydrocarbon gas or vapor detector in combination with a plurality of optical light radiators that range from ultraviolet (UV), visible light (VL) and infrared (IR) light, wherein the robust, rugged, flashlight like enclosure contains an array of solid state light sources, the solid state light sources radiate light that ranges from the ultraviolet through visible and into the infrared spectrum, the flashlight like enclosure contains a hydrocarbon gas sensor for responding to greater than 100 hydrocarbon based gases, and contains a power on/off switch in combination with a sensitivity control and microprocessor electronics, the push button switch controls by turning on and off various arrays of the solid state light sources having light emitters in combination with the hydrocarbon gas sensor, and the push button switch permitting a mixing of different wavelengths of light and colors emitted from the solid state arrays under a microprocessor control.  
         [0017]     A further object of the invention is to provide an apparatus whereby encoding the invisible (to the human eye) light, for emitting arrays for secured optical communications.  
         [0018]     A still further object of the invention is to provide an apparatus whereby housing the hydrocarbon gas sensor in a center of a scanning head of the flashlight type enclosure, a captivating hood is realized for capturing of gas or volatiles.  
         [0019]     Another object of the invention is to provide a hydrocarbon gas detector and optical scanner under the control of a dedicated on-board computer, the on-board computer having a microprocessor to provide functionality and detection of suspect material, and the microprocessor being preprogrammed for receiving code encryption of UV, infrared, and white light, and for mixing UV, infrared and visible light in a manner that encodes all signals via optical encryption.  
         [0020]     A still further object of the invention is to provide an apparatus comprising an optical signaling device that has a time of day location and other type information encoded within a signaling array, the optical signaling device housing a hydrocarbon gas sensor in a center of a scanning head of a flashlight type enclosure and forming a captivating hood for easy capturing of hydrocarbon gas or vapors. The apparatus comprising means for visually indicate a mode of operation, wherein the signaling device provides visual and audible indication when exposed to a hydrocarbon gas, wherein the signaling device includes an electronic purge for providing quick recover of the gas sensor when exposed to high concentrations of gas, and includes means for displaying results via an audible signal tones for changes of the tones and pulse rate when exposed to a gas atmosphere. The apparatus provides audible tone frequency, which increases if exposed to a gas atmosphere, wherein the apparatus further includes a voice audible recorder, wherein the apparatus includes a data logger, and wherein the apparatus being powered by disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries or line power.  
         [0021]     Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0022]     Preferred structural embodiments and preferred subcomponents of this invention are disclosed in the accompanying drawings in which:  
         [0023]      FIG. 1  illustrates a front perspective view of an arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0024]      FIG. 2  illustrates a top view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0025]      FIG. 3  illustrates a front perspective view of an arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0026]      FIG. 4  illustrates a top view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0027]      FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of two arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatuses performing infrared communications in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0028]      FIG. 6  illustrates a circuit diagram utilized in the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0029]      FIG. 7  illustrates a circuit diagram utilized in the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0030]      FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus in accordance with the first and the second embodiment of the present invention inserted into a removable collector cone in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0031]      FIG. 9  illustrates a front perspective view of the collector cone and a plurality of equally spaced removable magnifying lenses in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0032]      FIG. 10  illustrates a kit assembly with an extender sleeve for the collector cone, a collector cone heater chamber for hot and cold applications as well as a sample/evidence container in accordance with the present invention;  
         [0033]      FIG. 11  illustrates a perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus with the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber all mounted together in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0034]      FIG. 12  illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus with the collector cone, the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber and the collector cone heater chamber cut away in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0035]      FIG. 13  illustrates a rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus with the collector cone, the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber all mounted together in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0036]      FIG. 14  illustrates a partially exploded rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus with the collector cone, the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber, and the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber cut away in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0037]      FIG. 15  illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus with the collector cone, the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber and the collector cone heater chamber cut away in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0038]      FIG. 16  illustrates a rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus with the collector cone, the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber all mounted together in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention; and  
         [0039]      FIG. 17  illustrates a partially exploded rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus with the collector cone, the extender sleeve and the collector cone heater chamber and the collector cone heater chamber cut away in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.  
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0040]     Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific example, while indicating a preferred embodiment of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.  
         [0041]      FIG. 1  illustrates a front perspective view of the first embodiment of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon gas detector apparatus  10 .  FIG. 2  illustrates a top view of the apparatus  10 . The first embodiment of the present invention will initially be described with reference to these two figures. The apparatus  10  is useful with forensic requirements, arson inspection requirements or both. The apparatus  10  is enclosed in an extremely rugged housing  12 , which is aluminum in this first embodiment. It could also be made of steel or any other rugged material. The housing  12  is one and half inches in diameter at a rear section  14 . A front section  16  of the stainless steel housing  12  is two and a quarter inches in diameter. The front section  16  forms a captive hood for capturing gas or volatiles. The entire housing  12  of the apparatus  10  is ten and three eighths inches over all, which includes a middle section  18 .  
         [0042]     The rear section  14  includes a screw off cap  20  wherein a power supply such as two long life D size batteries (not shown) can be inserted. Of course, the power supply can be disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries or line power. The front section  16  comprises a flashlight head  22  having a circular illumination section generally indicated by numeral  24 . In the center of the illumination section  24 , a hydrocarbon sensor  26  is mounted.  
         [0043]     Spaced around the hydrocarbon sensor  26  are four inter arrays made up of sixteen LEDs. There are four blue LEDs  27 , four amber LEDs  28 , four red LEDs  29 , and four green LEDs  30 . Around the sixteen colored LEDs  27 ,  28 ,  29 ,  30  are two outer rings  31 ,  32 . The first outer ring  31  contains eight ultraviolet LEDs and the second outer ring  32  is made up of eight white LEDs. The apparatus  10  includes a total array of eight ultraviolet LEDs and twenty-four white and multicolored LEDs. There is also a sound port  33  positioned amongst the array of thirty-two LEDs. The circular illumination section  24  is removable from the front section  16 . The thirty-two multi-colored and ultraviolet LEDs are the merging of forensic wavelengths. It is well established in forensics that shorter wavelengths such as 450 nanometers (μm) are most useful in body fluid, teeth and bone fragment, bite mark and bruise work. While longer wavelengths, such as 480 nanometers (nm), are most useful in trace evidence and fingerprint work. The thirty-two multi-colored and ultraviolet LEDs supplies a unique profile of forensic wavelengths which each color to permit evidence collection.  
         [0044]     The middle section  18  has a hydrocarbon sensitivity control switch  34 . The sensitivity switch  34  is dial controlled with easily viewable graduations generally indicated by the numeral  35 . The sensitivity switch  34  is adjustable over a specific range, and is used to turn the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector  10  “on” and “off”. The sensitivity switch  34  is electrically connected to the hydrocarbon sensor  26 .  
         [0045]     On either side of the sensitivity control switch  34  are buttons  36  and  37 . Button  36  is a light push button. The other push button  37  is an electronic purge. The light push button  36  operates the thirty-two LEDs in the inter rings  27 ,  28 ,  29 ,  30  and outer rings  31 ,  32 . Immediately above the graduations  35  of the hydrocarbon sensitivity switch  34  is a viewable tip bar indicator  38 . The indicator  38  contains three indicator LEDs  40 ,  41 , and  42 . The indicator LED  40  indicates, with a white light to the user, that the thirty-two LEDs  27 ,  28 ,  29 ,  30 ,  31 ,  32  are active. The indicator LED  41  indicates, with a green light to the user, that the hydrocarbon sensor  26  is ready. The indicator LED  42  indicates, with a red light to the user, that the battery power is low.  
         [0046]     In operation of the arson and forensic scanner and gas/hydrocarbon detector apparatus  10 , a user rotates the hydrocarbon sensitivity control switch  34  clockwise until the white light  40  glows in the top bar indicator  38 . At this point, the user pushes light button  36  and the eight white LEDs  32  are activated. The user does a second push of the light button  36  to turn “on” the eight ultraviolet LEDs  31 . A third push of light button  36  activates the four blue LEDs  27 . With a fourth push of the light button  36 , the four red LEDs  29  are activated. The fifth push of light button  36  activates the four green LEDs  30 . With a sixth push of light button.  36 , the four amber LEDs  28  are activated. A seventh or final push of light button  36  turns the apparatus  10  “off.” 
         [0047]      FIG. 3  illustrates a front perspective view of the second embodiment of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon gas detector apparatus  110 .  FIG. 4  illustrates a top view of the apparatus  110 . The second embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to these two figures. The apparatus  110  is useful with forensic requirements, arson inspection requirements or both. Additionally, this apparatus  110  supports infrared communications. The apparatus  110  is enclosed in an extremely rugged housing  112 , which is aluminum in this embodiment. The housing  112  is one and half inches in diameter at a rear section  114 . A front section  116  of the aluminum housing  112  is two and a quarter inches in diameter. The front section  116  forms a captive hood for capturing gas. The entire housing  112  of the apparatus  110  is ten and three eighths inches over all, which includes a middle section  118 .  
         [0048]     The rear section  114  includes a screw off cap  120  wherein a power supply such as two long life D size batteries (not shown) can be inserted. Of course, the power supply can be disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries or line power. The front section  116  comprises a flashlight head  122  having a circular illumination section generally indicated by numeral  124 . In the center of the illumination section  124  a hydrocarbon sensor  126  is mounted. Evenly spaced around the hydrocarbon sensor  126  is an inter ring  128  made up of sixteen ultraviolet LEDs  131 . Around the inter ring  128  is an outer array  130  of sixteen infrared LEDs  132  and a sound or microphone port  133 .  
         [0049]     The middle section  118  has a hydrocarbon sensitivity control switch  134 . The sensitivity switch  134  is dial controlled with easily viewable graduations generally indicated by the numeral  135 . The sensitivity switch  134  is adjustable over a specific range, and is used to turn the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector  110  “on” and “off”. The sensitivity switch  134  is electrically connected to the hydrocarbon sensor  126 .  
         [0050]     On either side of the sensitivity control switch  134  are buttons  136  and  137 . Button  136  is a light push button. The other push button  137  is for electronic purge. The light push button  136  operates the thirty-two LEDs in the inter ring  131  and outer array  132 . Immediately above the graduations  135  of the hydrocarbon sensitivity switch  134  is a viewable tip bar indicator  138 . The indicator  138  contains three indicator LEDs  140 ,  141 , and  142 . The indicator LED  140  indicates, with a white light to the user, that the thirty-two LEDs of the inter ring  131  and the outer array  132  are active. The indicator LED  141  indicates, with a green light to the user, that the hydrocarbon sensor  126  is ready. The indicator LED  142  indicates, with a red light to the user, that the battery power is low.  
         [0051]     In operation of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon gas detector apparatus  110 , a user rotates the hydrocarbon sensitivity control switch  134  clockwise until the white light  140  glows in the top bar indicator  138 . At this point, the user pushes light button  136  and the inter ring of sixteen ultraviolet LEDs  132  are activated. The user does a second push of the light button  136  to turn on the other ring of sixteen infrared LEDs  131 . A third push of light button  136  turns the apparatus  110  “off”.  
         [0052]      FIG. 6  illustrates a block circuit diagram of the first embodiment utilized in the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon gas detector apparatus  10 . The apparatus  10  can use a multitude of optical radiators ranging from ultraviolet to infrared generally indicated by numerals  26 ,  27 ,  28 ,  29 . The apparatus  10  is controlled by a microprocessor  46 , which can be readily preprogrammed. The apparatus  10  may be used as a gas detector to detect trace amounts of accelerants days after a fire. The apparatus  10  may be used at a selected color frequency for optical radiation. The housing  12  of the gas hydrocarbon sensor  33  contains, in the center of the circular illumination section or scanning head  24  of the flashlight type enclosure, at the front section  16 , a captivating hood for capturing gas or volatiles. The hydrocarbon gas sensor  26  will respond to greater than 100 hydrocarbon based gases. The apparatus  10  utilizes the power on/off in combination with hydrocarbon gas sensitivity control switch  34  and the microprocessor electronics  46  to, through the light push button  36 , control (turns “on” and “off”) various arrays of light emitters in the inter ring  27 ,  28 ,  29 ,  30  and outer rings  31 ,  32  in combination with the hydrocarbon gas sensor  26 . The light push button  36  permits the mixing of different wavelengths of light and colors emitted from the solid-state arrays under control of the microprocessor  46 . When the master power switch  33  is turned on the voltage up converter  49  is activated thus boosting the +3V supply voltage to the +5V required by the microprocessor and multiplexer  46  to activate the hydrocarbon gas sensor or detector  26 . Once the apparatus  10  activated, the light button  36  can be cycled to change activate one or all of the LED arrays. When gas is present a voltage change occurs in the hydrocarbon gas detector or sensor  26 . This change passes through the gas detection amplifier  47  and is amplified to a signal distinguishable to the microprocessor  46 . This signal can bypass the gas detection amplifier  47  if the bypass switch  49  is activated. The apparatus  10  is simple to operate, and calibration is not required. The outer ring of ultraviolet LEDs  31  provides an ultraviolet source. The ultraviolet source causes some accelerants to glow and fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light.  
         [0053]      FIG. 7  illustrates a block circuit diagram utilized in the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon gas detector apparatus  110 . The apparatus  110  can use a multitude of optical radiators ranging from ultraviolet to infrared generally indicated by numeral  144 . The apparatus  110  is controlled by a microprocessor  146 , which can be readily preprogrammed. The apparatus  110  may be used as a gas detector to detect trace amounts of accelerants days after a fire. The apparatus  110  may be used at a selected color frequency for optical radiation. The apparatus  110  is easily encrypted in a serial manner that sends light bursts to a remote receiver thus ensuring secured communications. With the apparatus  110 , through the programming of the microprocessor  146  and by encoding the invisible (to the human eye) light emitting arrays, covert and secured optical communications may be realized. The housing  112  of the gas hydrocarbon sensor  133  contains, in the center of the circular illumination section or scanning head  124  of the flashlight type enclosure, at the front section  116 , a captivating hood for capturing gas or volatiles. The hydrocarbon gas sensor  126  will respond to greater than one hundred hydrocarbon based gases. The apparatus  110  utilizes the power on/off in combination with hydrocarbon gas sensitivity control switch  134  and the microprocessor electronics  146  to, through the light push button  136 , control (turns on and off) various arrays of light emitters in the inter ring  131  and outer ring  132  in combination with the hydrocarbon gas sensor  126 . The light push button  136  permits the mixing of different wavelengths of light and colors emitted from the solid-state arrays under control of the microprocessor  146 . The sixteen infrared LEDs  132  provide a covert and secure means of voice or other communications via infrared transmitting/receiving. This is achieved by voice modulating any of the sixteen infrared LEDs through the microprocessor  146  contained within the flashlight housing  112 . When the master power switch  133  is turned on the voltage up converter  149  is activated thus boosting the +3V supply voltage to the +5V required by the microprocessor and multiplexer  146  to activate the hydrocarbon gas sensor or detector  126 . Once the apparatus  110  activated, the light button  136  can be cycled to change activate one or all of the LED arrays. When gas is present a voltage change occurs in the hydrocarbon gas detector or sensor  126 . This change passes through the gas detection amplifier  147  and is amplified to a signal distinguishable to the microprocessor  146 . This signal can bypass the gas detection amplifier  147  if the bypass switch  149  is activated. The apparatus  110  is simple to operate, and calibration is not required. The inter ring of ultraviolet LEDs  131  provide an ultraviolet source. The ultraviolet source causes some accelerants to glow and fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet light.  
         [0054]     The arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon gas detector apparatus  110  is under the control of the dedicated on board computer having the microprocessor  146  to provide functionality and detection of suspect material. The microprocessor  146  is preprogrammed for receiving code encryption of ultraviolet, infrared, and white light. The microprocessor  146  effectively mixes ultraviolet, infrared and visible light in a manner that encodes all signals via optical encryption. The optical signaling of the apparatus  110  has a time of day location and other type information encoded within the signaling array. The apparatus  110  provides visual and audible indication when exposed to a hydrocarbon gas. Additionally, with the apparatus  110  there is provided quick recover, through purge button  137 , of the gas sensor  126  when exposed to high concentrations of hydrocarbon gas for use as an electronic purge.  
         [0055]      FIG. 8  illustrates the apparatus  10  inserted into a collector cone  50  made of an inert thermo plastic. Apparatus  110  also can be inserted into the collector cone  50 , as will be discussed with reference to  FIGS. 16, 17  and  18 . The collector cone  50  provides an environmental chamber, which permits easy detection of gaseous vapors on windy days and insures a defined environment for hydrocarbon detection and visual observation of suspect material. The collector cone  50  includes readily removable magnifier lens  52 ,  54 , and  56 . Magnifier lens  52  is a power two lens, magnifier lens  54  is a power five lens, and magnifier lens  56  is a power ten lens. The cone  50  includes a circular top portion  58 , which receives the front section  16  of the apparatus  10  with a secure snug friction fit with the help of rubber gripper grommets  53 ,  55 ,  57  that fit into the three holes  59 ,  61 ,  63  surrounding the top portion  58 . These rubber gripper grommets  53 ,  55 ,  57  in holes  59 ,  61 ,  63  provide the friction fit for the apparatus  10 . The power lenses  52 ,  54  and  56  are mounted on a slanted surface  60  and are equally positioned around the slanted portion  60 . Slanted portion  60  connects the top portion  58  to bottom circular portion  62 , which is somewhat larger than circular top portion  58 .  
         [0056]     When using the collector cone  50  with apparatus  10 , forensic materials is viewed through the various magnifying lens  52 ,  54  and  56 , the lenses help detect various suspect materials that tend to exhibit different and unique colors under the influence of the various lights provided by the apparatus  10 . Burnt materials can be viewed by placing the collector cone  50  on the material and turning on the lights of the apparatus  10 . The lights from LED arrays  28 ,  29 ,  30 ,  31 ,  32 ,  131  and  132  are visible, infrared, ultraviolet or various combinations. Many materials have visual characteristics that are altered when exposed to different temperature and lights. The apparatus  10  is portable and each weighs less than one (1) pound. In fact, with the collector cone  50  attached the apparatus  10  the weight approximately one pound and 7.6 ounces. Thus, making the apparatus  10  with the collector cone  50  extremely easy to use and carry in the field during arson or forensic investigations.  
         [0057]      FIG. 9  illustrates a perspective view of the collector cone  50  with the magnifying lenses  52 ,  54  and  56  removed. The collector cone  50  can be used with or without the magnifying lenses  52 ,  54  and  56  when attached to the apparatus  10  or apparatus  110 . When one or more of the magnifying lenses  52 ,  54  and  56  are removed during use, plugs (not shown) can be inserted to cover holes  64 ,  66  and  68 , wherein hole  64  corresponds to the hole left when magnifying lens  52  is removed, hole  66  corresponds to the hole left when magnifying lens  54  is removed, and hole  68  corresponds to the hole left when magnifying lens  56  is removed. Also, there may be times, when utilizing the apparatus  10  or apparatus  110  and attached collector cone, that one or more of the holes  64 ,  66  and  68  are left uncovered so that some of the hydrocarbon gas escapes.  
         [0058]      FIG. 10  illustrates a kit assembly for use with the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon gas detector apparatus  10  or  110 . The kit assembly is indicated by reference numeral  80 . The kit assembly  80  includes a carrying case  82 , an extender sleeve  84  for the collector cone  50 , a collector cone heater chamber  86  for hot and cold applications as well as a sample/evidence container  88 . The extender sleeve  84  is made of inert thermo plastic making the extender sleeve  84  very light weight and yet extremely durable.  
         [0059]     An example of field use during a fire investigation would be that an investigator would carry apparatus  10  and removable collector cone with the kit assembly  80  with the case  82  and its contents to detect possible accelerants after the fire. The investigator utilizing just the apparatus  10  would do a broad sweep of the burnt area. The apparatus  10  would generate an audible signal tone, through the sound port  33 , that changes the tones and pulse rate when exposed to a gas atmosphere. The audible tone frequency would increase if exposed to a gas atmosphere. The sound port  32  also contains a voice audible recorder. The investigator can then attach the collector cone  50  to the apparatus  10  to begin a more focused search for detectable accelerants after the fire on a more specific burnt area. The investigator would retrieve a piece of burnt material and place the collector cone  50  with the attached apparatus  10  over the burnt material. The investigator then can use one of the magnifying lenses  52 ,  54  or  56  to more closely examine the accelerants.  
         [0060]     With reference to  FIGS. 11 and 12 ,  FIG. 11  illustrates a perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus  10  with the collector cone  50 , the extender sleeve  84  and the collector cone heater chamber  86  all mounted together in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 12  illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus  10  with the extender sleeve  84  and the collector cone heater chamber  86  and the collector cone heater chamber  86  cut away in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention. The collector cone heat chamber  86  can be used to provide heat or cold to suspect material or a piece of burnt material  76  that may contain entrapped hydrocarbons or other material of interest. When heat is applied to most suspected materials  76 , any entrapped hydrocarbons will volatize off, thus enhancing the detection of fugitive hydrocarbons. The collector cone heater chamber  86  includes a timing circuit  87  is equipped with timers that provide five minutes, ten minutes or fifteen minutes for the application of heat or cold over a specific time period. A visible label  88  has a button  89  for the five minute timer, a button  90  for the ten minute timer, and a button  91  for the fifteen minute timer. Each of the buttons  89 ,  90  and  91  are electrically connected to the timing circuit  87 . The label  88  also includes a reset button  92  for resetting the timing circuit  87 . There are mode indicator LEDs  93 ,  94  and  95 , above each of the timing buttons  89 ,  90  and  91  light for a visible indicator to the user to tell which timer is activated. The reset button  92  has its own indicator LED  96  for indicating the reset mode is activated to the user. The collector cone heater chamber  84  has a battery compartment  97  to power the timing circuit  87  and a thermo electric heater/cooler module  98 . An aluminum deck  100  will heat up or cool down once the thermo electric heater/cooler module  98  is activated. The apparatus  10  is attached to the collector cone  50 , which is then attached to the extender sleeve  84 . The extender sleeve  84  then fits inside the collector cone heater chamber  84  after the suspect material is placed in the collector cone heater chamber  84 . At this point, the investigator can either heat up or cool down the thermo electric heater/cooler module  98  and view the material through one or all of the magnifying lenses  52 ,  54 ,  56 .  
         [0061]     To locate an accelerant source, the user or investigator slowly scans area of interest. The collector cone  50  provides a controlled environment for investigating samples. If an accelerant or hydrocarbon is present, the apparatus  10  displays a flashing indicator and audible beep tones. The apparatus  10  is designed so that the more volatile the accelerant then the faster the beep rate. The apparatus  10  has excellent sensitivity and is capable of detecting hydrocarbon concentrations of less than 50 parts per million. The apparatus  10  may also be used as a general purpose gas detector. The apparatus  10  is the only hydrocarbon gas detector that combines a visual and ultra violent light source in combination with the highly sensitive hydrocarbon gas detector  26 . Many flammable hydrocarbons, which include gasoline, kerosene and paint solvents, are often used as accelerants. Investigation of these arson fires can be greatly enhanced if the presence and locations or residual accelerants can be detected at the site as soon as possible. Some other accelerants that can be detected by the apparatus  10  are Acetone, Acrylonitrile, Ammonia, Benzene, Butane, Chloropicrin, Dimethyl Amine, Ethane, Ethanol, Ethylene, Ethylene Oxide, Formaldehyde, Freon 11, Freon 113, Freon 12, Freon 22, Freon 502, Halon 1211, Halon 1301, Hexane, Methane, Methanol, Methyl Acetate, Methyl Chloride, Methyl Ketone, Methyl Mercaptan, Methylene Chloride, Naphtha, Pentane, Propane, Sulfur Dioxide, Trichlorethylene, Trichlorethane, Vinyl Chloride.  
         [0062]     The apparatus  10  can be useful in isolating areas of high hydrocarbon concentrations from which “hot” samples that may be collected for further lab analysis. Applications include arson investigation, gas leak detection, locating gasoline spills, detecting HAZMAT cleanup certification, building inspections, detection of bloodstains, semen stains, fugitive gas emissions, and air contaminants.  
         [0063]      FIG. 13  illustrates a rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus  10  in the first embodiment. The collector cone  50  is friction fitted to the apparatus  10  through the front section  16  and the circular top portion  58  with the gripper grommets  53 ,  55 , and  57 . The extender sleeve  84  is attached to the collector cone  50  and the collector cone heater chamber  86 . At the back of the collector cone heater chamber  86  is a push button activator  101 .  
         [0064]      FIG. 14  illustrates a partially exploded rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus  10  in the first embodiment. The front section  16  of the apparatus  10  is friction fitted into the collector cone  50  by way of the circular top portion  58  and the rubber gripper grommets  53 ,  55 , and  57 . The collector cone  50  is then placed inside the extender sleeve  84 , which in turn is placed into the collector cone heater chamber  86 . Between the chamber  86  and the extender sleeve  84  is the aluminum deck  100  for placing the investigating material. The collector cone heater chamber  86  shown in a cut away includes the battery compartment  97 , the timing circuit  87  and the thermo electric heater/cooler  98 .  
         [0065]     With respect to the second embodiment and when using the collector cone  50  with apparatus  110 , arson material can be viewed through the various magnifying lens  52 ,  54  and  56 , the lenses help detect various suspect materials that tend to exhibit different and unique colors under the influence of the various lights provided by the apparatus  110 . In the following figure, only one lens  54  is shown. Burnt materials can be viewed by placing the collector cone  50  on the material and turning on the lights of the apparatus  10 . The lights from LED arrays  131  and  132  are visible, infrared, ultraviolet or various combinations. Many materials have visual characteristics that are altered when exposed to different temperature and lights. The apparatus  110  is portable and weighs less than one pound. In fact, with the collector cone  50  attached the apparatus  110  the weight approximately one pound and 7.6 ounces. Thus, making the apparatus  110  with the collector cone  50  extremely easy to use and carry in the field during arson or forensic investigations.  
         [0066]      FIG. 15  illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus  110  with the collector cone  50  and the collector cone heater chamber  86  and the collector cone heater chamber  86  cut away in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention. The collector cone heat chamber  86  can be used to provide heat or cold to suspect material or a piece of burnt material  76  that may contain entrapped hydrocarbons or other material of interest. When heat is applied to most suspected materials  76 , any entrapped hydrocarbons will volatize off, thus enhancing the detection of fugitive hydrocarbons. The collector cone heater chamber  86  includes a timing circuit  87  is equipped with timers that provide five minutes, ten minutes or fifteen minutes of heat or cold. A visible label  88  has a button  89  for the five minute timer, a button  90  for the ten minute timer, and a button  91  for the fifteen minute timer. Each of the buttons  89 ,  90  and  91  are electrically connected to the timing circuit  87 . The label  88  also includes a reset button  92  for resetting the timing circuit  87 . There are mode indicator LEDs  93 ,  94  and  95 , above each of the timing buttons  89 ,  90  and  91  light  93  for visible indicate to the user which of the timers are on. The reset button  92  has its own indicator LED  96  for indicating the reset mode is on to the user. The collector cone heater chamber  84  has a battery compartment  97  to power the timing circuit  87  and a thermo electric heater/cooler module  98 . An aluminum deck  100  will heat up or cool down once the thermo electric heater/cooler module  98  is activated. The apparatus  110  is attached to the collector cone  50 , which is then attached to the extender sleeve  84 . The extender sleeve  84  then fits inside the collector cone heater chamber  84  after the suspect material  86  is placed in the collector cone heater chamber  84 . At this point, the investigator  70  can either heat up or cool down the thermo electric heater/cooler module  98  and view the material  76  through one or all of the magnifying lenses  52 ,  54 ,  56 . In this figure, only one magnifying lens  54  is shown.  
         [0067]      FIG. 16  illustrates a rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus  110 . The collector cone  50  is friction fitted to the apparatus  110  through the front section  116  and the circular top portion  58  with the gripper grommets  53 ,  55 , and  57 . The extender sleeve  84  is attached to the collector cone  50  and the collector cone heater chamber  86 . At the back of the collector cone heater chamber  86  is a push button activator  101 . In this figure, only one of the magnifier lenses  54  is shown.  
         [0068]      FIG. 17  illustrates a partially exploded rear perspective view of the arson and forensic scanner and hydrocarbon detector apparatus  110  The front section  116  of the apparatus  110  is friction fitted into the collector cone  50  by way of the circular top portion  58  and the rubber gripper grommets  53 ,  55 , and  57 . The collector cone  50  is then placed inside the extender sleeve  84 , which in turn is placed into the collector cone heater chamber  86 . Between the chamber  86  and the extender sleeve  84  is the aluminum deck  100  for placing the investigating material. The collector cone heater chamber  86  shown in a cut away includes the battery compartment  97 , the timing circuit  87  and the thermo electric heater/cooler  98 .  
         [0069]     The collector cone  50  provides a controlled environment for investigating samples. If an accelerant or hydrocarbon is present, the apparatus  110  displays a flashing indicator and audible beep tones. The apparatus  110  is designed so that the more volatile the accelerant then the faster the beep rate. The apparatus  110  has excellent sensitivity and is capable of detecting hydrocarbon concentrations of less than 50 parts per million. The apparatus  10  may also be used as a general purpose gas detector. The apparatus  110  is the only hydrocarbon gas detector that combines a visual and ultra violet (UV) light source in combination with a highly sensitive gas/hydrocarbon detector. Many flammable hydrocarbons, which include gasoline, kerosene and paint solvents, are often used as accelerants. Investigation of these arson fires can be greatly enhanced if the presence and locations or residual accelerants can be detected at the site as soon as possible. Some other accelerants that can be detected by the apparatus  10  are Acetone, Acrylonitrile, Ammonia, Benzene, Butane, Chloropicrin, Dimethyl Amine, Ethane, Ethanol, Ethylene, Ethylene Oxide, Formaldehyde, Freon 11, Freon 113, Freon 12, Freon 22, Freon 502, Halon 1211, Halon 1301, Hexane, Methane, Methanol, Methyl Acetate, Methyl Chloride, Methyl Ketone, Methyl Mercaptan, Methylene Chloride, Naphtha, Pentane, Propane, Sulfur Dioxide, Trichlorethylene, Trichlorethane, Vinyl Chloride.  
         [0070]     The apparatus  110  can be useful in isolating areas of high hydrocarbon concentrations from which “hot” samples that may be collected for further lab analysis. Applications include arson investigation, gas leak detection, locating gasoline spills, detecting HAZMAT cleanup certification, building inspections, detection of bloodstains, semen stains, fugitive gas emissions, and air contaminants.  
         [0071]     The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and, accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. For example, although the current description does not provide for LED interchangeability, all LEDs are electronically switched for one array to another and different array colors may be changed depending upon an application of the apparatus  10  or  110 . In other words, it may be desirable to have all ultraviolet LEDs or any other type of combination. Also, it may be desirable to simply remove the flashlight head  22  or  122  and interchange them, since the actuation of the LEDs is programmed through the microprocessor.