Spore detector

#There are several methods of collection and analysis of spores. In one method, the bare sides of a glass optical fiber are treated with a substance that adsorbs the target substance, causing a change in refractive index of the surface of the optical fiber. The change in refractive index changes how much light leaks out of the curved, treated segment, causing a change in signal received by the light receptor. However, any phosphorescent or fluorescent materials in contact with the sensor could distort readings by introducing a competing light source.

#Another method uses fluorescence only to detect and identify a wide range of biological substances, and many biological substances other than spores fluoresce, potentially masking the presence of spores. The fluorescence is detectable only while the exciting light is on, and does not continue after the light is turned off.

#One device for spore detection impacts the spores onto a reactive substrate on a filter wheel, and the substrate combines with certain portions of the spore to make phosphorescent products. The phosphorescent products allow the system to be very sensitive, detecting as few as 1000 spores in one spot. However, the device does not make use of the native phosphorescence of the spores.

#Various exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the following figures, wherein:

#FIG. 1 illustrates fluorescence and phosphorescence according to one embodiment;

#FIG. 2 illustrates a spore detector device according to one embodiment;

#The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of general introduction, and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. The described embodiments will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

#The disclosure herein describes in part, a low cost real-time sensor for detecting desiccated Bacillus and other spores in HVAC systems. The sensor is used to monitor indoor biological threats, wherein the threat is located to the nearest HVAC zone.

#Embodiments described herein provide a real-time signal when relatively large levels of spores enter the HVAC system and are in the process of being spread throughout the building. It can be used to trigger automated responses to limit the spread of the threat. Embodiments herein also describe a mobile spore-detecting unit that can be used in conjunction with a wearable mask or used as a standalone self-contained unit.