Swisens Atomizer
The SwisensAtomizer is a device that allows the controlled nebulization of pollen grains, spores, and aerosols in general for the SwisensPoleno or other aerosol measuring devices.
This controlled nebulization is usually used to detect new pollen taxa, spores, or other airborne particles by these continuous measuring devices, allowing the detection capacity to be extended to the local conditions of each sampling station.
This device is usually purchased as a complement to the SwisensPoleno when the goal is to monitor, in addition to the usual pollen taxa (Betula, Fagus, Quercus, Corylus, Poaceae, etc.), taxa or particles specific to a region or locality. It is generally purchased as a complement by managers of national or regional monitoring networks (health services, meteorological agencies) or research centers.
Downloads
Technical and commercial documentation
Brochure and general technical specifications.
Operating principle
This device is used to nebulize particles in a controlled manner toward samplers such as the SwisensPoleno. The training procedure for classifying new pollen taxa is briefly described below, but the procedure is identical for all other aerosols.
A pollen sample is required for assimilation. There are two ways to obtain these types of samples:
- Acquired directly from the field.
- Purchased directly from a supplier.
To the extent possible, samples should be representative and contain as few impurities as possible. For the assimilation of new types of pollen, it is recommended that the samples be acquired from different geographical origins within the region, thus ensuring greater representativeness.
Once the pollen sample has been acquired, the SwisensAtomizer must be mounted on the sampler (the device is supplied with a specific support for feeding a Sigma-2 sampler) and a portion of the pollen sample must be placed in the standard container. For both laboratory and field installations, it is necessary to cover the intake with a HEPA filter (supplied with the equipment), thus preventing inferences about ambient conditions regarding the sample to be assimilated.
Once the SwisensAtomizer has been assembled and powered, the nebulizer and the SwisensPoleno are appropriately configured for assimilation:
- Vibration and air flow on the SwisensAtomizer.
- Some software and air flow settings on the SwisensPoleno to compensate for the effect of the HEPA filter.
Once both devices are configured, the procedure for powering the measuring device from the nebulizer can be initiated. This process can take from 30 minutes to several hours (depending on the particle concentration generated by the nebulizer). Once the nebulization process is complete, a validation process is performed:
- Automatically using the SwisensPoleno software.
- Manually, based on the observation of image pairs obtained using digital holography.
The filtered and validated data are compared with the bulk sample obtained during the nebulization process. It is at this stage that, using machine learning algorithms, the assimilation of new pollen taxa occurs, also obtaining indicators related to the assimilation quality, such as a confusion matrix.
Only one complete SwisensPoleno station and one SwisensAtomizer are required to assimilate new pollen taxa. This means that once a pollen type has been assimilated at one station, this assimilation can be extended to the rest of the stations in the automatic pollen monitoring network in real time without having to repeat the process for each station.
Operating diagram of the Swisens Atomizer mounted on a Sigma-2 type intake. Image
Differentiating features.
The SwisensAtomizer is a device that can multiply the detection capabilities of an automatic pollen and other aerosol monitoring station (or network of stations). It is a complement specifically designed for use with the SwisensPoleno, although it can be attached to any device with a Sigma-2 type outlet, the market standard.
Its main distinguishing features are:
Specifically designed
for use with the SwisensPoleno.
Universal application
in any Sigma-2 type outlet designed according to VDI 2119:2013
Full control and regulation
of nebulization (vibration strength and frequency; airflow).
Rechargeable battery
via universal USB connection.
Configuration and operation
on the device itself (display and keypad) or Bluetooth.
Sigma-2
Supplied with a mounting bracket for a Sigma-2 type outlet and a HEPA filter closure. You only need to provide the pollen sample or the aerosol type to be assimilated.
Technical specifications and general characteristics
Samples
- Particle type: pollen, spores, and other aerosols
- Size: from 0.5 μm to 500 μm
- Maximum recommended concentration: <500 particles/minute
Technology / Operating principle:
- Vibration and airflow (configurable).
Dimensions and weight
- SwisensAtomizer Size:
Width: 145 mm /Height: 160 mm / Depth: 90 mm - Weight: 0.8 kg (does not include stand or HEPA filter closure)
- Standard Sample Cell Size:
Width: 12.5 mm / Height: 45 mm / Depth: 12.5 mm
Power and communications
- Power:
- Internal 6000 mAh long-life LiFePO4 battery
- Up to 6 hours of battery life (depending on configuration)
- 8 hours of USB charging time
- Communications:
- On-device display and keypad
- Bluetooth for mobile connection
- USB for computer operation
Peripherals and auxiliary elements
- Sigma-2 socket holder
- HEPA filter closure for isolation from ambient conditions
Environmental conditions
- Optimal operating values:
- Air temperature: 10°C to 40°C
- Relative humidity: 10% to 90%
Options.
The equipment is supplied with all the necessary components for nebulizing samples in Sigma-2 type outlets.
Pollen or other aerosol samples are not included.
