The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 07, 1998
Filed:
Sep. 30, 1996
William K Reagen, Stillwater, MN (US);
Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, St. Paul, MN (US);
Abstract
A gas analysis apparatus includes an optical source for providing an optical signal, an interferometer for modifying the optical signal, and an optical signal detector. A first housing having folded path optical elements positioned therein; the elements defining a sample path through which the optical signal passes from the interferometer to the optical signal detector. The first housing has a sample introduction opening. A second housing defines a sample holding volume. The second housing is sealingly positioned with respect to the first housing for fluidly connecting the sample path of the first housing with the sample holding volume of the second housing through the sample introduction opening. A recirculating flow may be provided between the sample path and the sample holding volume. The second housing may include an access port with a detachable access closure through which a material may be placed in the sample holding volume. A method for using the apparatus is also described.