Application of Radial Basis Function Neural Networks to odour sensing using a broad specificity array of conducting polymers

Abstract

Neural networks are increasingly being used to enhance the classification and recognition powers of data collected from sensory analysis, This paper details the effectiveness of an enhanced Radial Basis Function Neural Network combined with the outputs from an "Electronic Nose" using electrically conducting organic polymers as sensor materials. Robust performance and classification of data is demonstrated with data patterns from pure chemicals. The system has been used to monitor the changes of odour with age of dry foodstuffs.