Headspace Collection and Conditioning Device
A portable, low-cost device for decentralized VOC analysis and on-site health monitoring
Team
- Francine Drysdale-Brown
Mentor
Hyun Kwon, PhD Michael Mason, Senior Project Manager, Engineer Matias Soto, PhD Gunnar Lovhoiden, PhD
Partner
Industry Lab - Andrews University Center for Innovation - Andrews University
The Challenge
Decentralized VOC analysis: High-precision gas testing is currently trapped in expensive labs, making it inaccessible for immediate, on-site health monitoring. Non-expert operation: Existing headspace technology is too complex for general use, requiring specialized training and manual calibration to function. Cost-effective sampling: The high cost of current diagnostic equipment prevents widespread adoption in low-resource clinics and everyday settings.
Our Solution
The Headspace Collection and Conditioning Device is a portable system designed to collect, condition, and prepare volatile organic compound (VOC) samples for analysis. The mechanical system addresses key engineering challenges including collection chamber design, critical tubing length and material selection, and hardware integration constraints. The device enables decentralized, non-expert VOC sampling at a fraction of the cost of traditional lab equipment.
Results
Mechanical system designed with optimized collection chamber geometry, validated tubing length and material selection for minimal VOC adsorption, and resolved hardware integration constraints. The device successfully conditions headspace gas samples for downstream analysis.
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