A fast model for identifying multiple indoor contaminant sources by considering sensor threshold and measurement error

In an emergency where a hazardous contaminant is abruptly released into indoor air, identifying the characteristics of contaminant source promptly and accurately is very important to eliminate source, control contamination and protect people. An identification model is presented in this study for quickly identifying the exact locations and emissions rates of multiple indoor contaminant sources with constant emissions rates and known release time, by considering sensor thresholds and measurement errors. Through case studies in a three-dimensional room, the model was numerically demonstrated and validated, and thorough analyses were made on the effects of the sensor threshold and measurement error on model performance. The results suggest that the model has the potential to obtain accurate results in real-time allowing for high levels of sensor data loss and measurement error. Practical application: The presented identification model is applicable to a wide variety of indoor environments involving multiple continuous contaminant sources, such as the emission of volatile compounds from building materials or furniture, the leakage of toxic or inflammable gases from pipeline or vessels in trace amount. This study will hopefully contribute to developing more realistic source identification techniques with unknown release time and real sensor use.