Exploitation of multiple sensor arrays in electronic nose

The coupled micro resonator array (CMRA) is a new type chemical sensor that has been developed to improve the performance of the electronic nose by increasing the number of sensors that can be used to detect specific odours. In the CMRA, an array of mechanically coupled micro mass balances, the mass of each micro mass balance can be determined by measuring the eigenfrequencies of the coupled array, with just a single input and output electrode. If the mass of each resonator is to be uniquely identified it is important that the changes in the eigenfrequencies are distinctive and that the eigenvectors of the system are stable against resonator mass changes. This paper models and evaluates the performance of an unsymmetrical yet balanced CMRA for individual resonator mass determination.