Revolutionizing the calibration of air quality devices: Accuracy, efficiency and sustainability

June 2023

At inBiot, we understand that accurate measurements, operational efficiency and sustainability are critical for companies seeking excellence. In the case of air quality monitoring, calibration plays a critical role in ensuring reliable measurements and optimal performance of devices and instruments over time. In fact, proper calibration helps to account for sensor drift, environmental changes and other factors that can affect measurement accuracy.

Traditional calibration methods typically involve time-consuming actions that must be performed by the user. While offering reliable calibration, this calibration process often involves adjustments, replacements, or sending the equipment back to the manufacturers for recalibration, which is unnecessary during the lifetime of the sensors, even in certifications such as WELL or RESET.

In addition, over time, various factors such as temperature, humidity and air pollutants can influence the sensor's response, leading to a change in the reference value. While monitors only require manual calibration once the sensor's lifetime is complete, their initial calibration may drift over time, which could result in less accurate measurements between calibration cycles. And while these drifts are accounted for in each sensor's accuracy ranges, measurements could be even more accurate if these factors are considered and adjusted for over time.

Therefore, to ensure that all our indoor air quality sensors are accurate throughout their lifetime, we designed our MICA devices with modular technology and state-of-the-art sensors with long lifetimes, revolutionizing traditional calibration methods with minimal maintenance.

HOW HAS INBIOT APPROACHED THIS CHALLENGE?

Our commitment to quality and accuracy goes beyond standard calibration practices. It starts with the careful selection of our sensors by our engineering team, following rigorous standards. All sensors in our devices undergo individual calibration using transfer standards prior to assembly, in accordance with ISO9001:2015 and ISO/IEC 17025:2017. This meticulous calibration process ensures that each sensor complies with the specifications indicated in the corresponding data sheets. In addition, each sensor is individually tested after calibration, validating its performance and accuracy. Factory calibration of the sensor ensures that it meets the desired accuracy standards from the outset, as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other relevant authorities.

But we don't stop there. Once installed, all of our Smart Air Quality Monitors use Baseline Calibration Self-Correction and/or Automatic Self-Calibration algorithms (AC algorithms). When the air quality monitor detects a deviation or change in the baseline value due to factors such as changes in indoor spaces, it automatically adjusts the calibration internally. With this algorithm, our devices monitor their own readings and compare them to known reference values. Thus, through advanced algorithms, it corrects the measurements to maintain accuracy and ensure maximum long-term stability without the need for manual actions by the user.

By analyzing this data, MICA can autonomously adjust the reference value to compensate for any deviations or changes in sensor performance, ensuring that the monitor provides accurate and reliable measurements even in dynamic environments and compensating for environmental changes.

 

ARE THERE ANY BENEFITS?

ABC calibration and our long-life sensors offer several benefits, including cost savings, reduced carbon footprint and improved performance, among others.

Cost savings

One of the significant advantages of ABC calibration is the potential for cost savings. By continuously monitoring and adjusting calibration values, devices equipped with this technology extend the lifetime of their sensors (more than 10 years for our MICA devices). Unlike traditional approaches that require frequent purchases of sensor replacements, ABC calibration eliminates the need for unnecessary expenses.

With inBiot's approach, you will not only save energy through indoor air quality monitoring, but you will also save costs in the long run, which benefits both individuals and businesses.

 

Carbon footprint reduction

In an era where sustainability is a priority, ABC calibration, accompanied by extended sensor lifetime, plays a vital role in reducing environmental impact. By avoiding unnecessary sensor scrap and minimizing the production and distribution of new sensors, this approach to calibration promotes environmental responsibility. It enables individuals and organizations to actively contribute to a greener future by reducing waste and their carbon footprint.

This environmentally conscious approach aligns with corporate responsibility initiatives and enhances the company's brand reputation, attracting environmentally conscious customers.

 

Enhanced performance and adaptability

Ensuring accuracy and reliability is crucial, especially in applications where precise measurements are vital, such as RESET and WELL certifications. This dual approach improves measurement accuracy and reliability, giving companies confidence in the performance of their devices.

It also provides flexibility and adaptability. If the device is used in different environments or needs to measure different contaminants, you can adjust its calibration settings as needed without the need to replace physical modules.

 

Sensor offset compensation

Even with periodic physical calibrations, sensors can experience measurement drift over time between calibration cycles. ABC calibration addresses this challenge even during extended periods between physical calibrations. By compensating for sensor drift, we maximize the reliability and longevity of devices, reducing the potential for errors and measurement discrepancies.

 

In conclusion, at inBiot we are committed to empowering businesses with advanced IAQ monitoring solutions that optimize accuracy, efficiency and sustainability. Our innovative technology, coupled with individual testing of each device, ensures that our sensors provide accurate measurements that fully comply with indoor air quality standards.

Visit our website to learn more about our state-of-the-art devices and take the first step towards a healthier and more sustainable environment!

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