Automatic sensor testing, compares measurements between sensor in use and reference sensor with replacement if criterion of accuracy is not met

摘要

A first measurement is made by a sensor (MCA1) designated the sensor in use. Immediately, a second identical measurement is taken by a second sensor (MCA2) designated the reference sensor. Measurements are compared. Should they satisfy a criterion of proximity, the first sensor retains its designation. If not it is replaced. Numbers of first and second measurements alternate. The replacement is the second sensor (MCA2) previously designated as the reference sensor. A previously-unused sensor designated the reserve sensor (MCAj) is selected as the new reference sensor. The sensors are chemical microsensors. An independent claim is included for a detector comprising measurement sensors (up to MCAn).