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Subjectivity in testing for automotive validation processes is typically a sticking point for many suppliers and OEMs. For vehicle interiors, in addition to the laboratory testing, human panels of “trained noses” are used to judge the different components and the completed vehicle. In the automotive industry, there is no standardization as each OEM has their own testing specifications, rating scale and methods. In addition to the variation in OEM specification, there are also global specifications issued by SAE, VDA, and ISO. This lack of unified quantitative norms leads to increased costs and timing for suppliers, lab-to-lab variations in results and ultimately longer development times for the OEMs. With the advances in sensors, biochemistry and machine learning, odor detection and classification can be achieved with the use of a digital olfaction device, or “electronic nose”.

A programmable, 24 independent-zone, computer-controlled furnace and control system have been developed for control of the thermal environment and process during crystal growth. The furnace and control system were designed to achieve capabilities which are beyond the state-of- the-art for crystal growth furnaces and control systems. New control system hardware, software, and power conversion techniques were developed to provide precise, accurate thermal control. New user interface software was developed to provide flexibility and ease of use for setting the crystal growth process steps and operating parameters and monitoring the crystal growth process progress. A data acquisition system was developed to provide in-depth evaluation of system performance during development and for use by crystal growth scientists developing new advanced crystal growth techniques.