www.delfintech.com
VapoMeter SWL5
User Manual
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................... 3
APPLICATIONS ............................................................................................................................ 3
CONTENTS OF PACKAGE ............................................................................................................. 4
MEASUREMENT PRINCIPLE ......................................................................................................... 4
USER INTERFACE DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................... 5
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ......................................................................................................... 5
SETTINGS AND INFORMATION MENU ........................................................................................... 8
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MEASUREMENTS WITH THE VAPOMETER ......................................... 10
MAINTENANCE ......................................................................................................................... 12
TECHNICAL DATA ..................................................................................................................... 15
APPENDIX A: DISPLAY MESSAGES ............................................................................................ 17
APPENDIX B: TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................................ 19
APPENDIX C: GUARANTEE ....................................................................................................... 21
User Manual version 1.3 for device software version 1.3
CONTENTS
VapoMeter SWL5 User Manual 1.3
10.11.2016
3
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Delfin VapoMeter. You have chosen the ideal device
for measuring transepidermal water loss (TEWL) or water loss from different
surfaces. The VapoMeter uses a closed chamber measurement principle and thus
measurements are unaffected by ambient airflows. The short measurement time
ensures that blocking of normal evaporation is minimal.
The VapoMeter is easy to operate and this manual is designed to help in performing
measurements accurately and quickly. The measurement process is totally noninvasive.
ENG It is advisable to read this guide carefully before using the VapoMeter.
FIN On suositeltavaa tutustua tähän käyttöohjeeseen huolellisesti
ennen VapoMeterin käyttöönottoa.
SWE Vi rekommenderar att ni läser igenom dessa instruktioner innan ni
använder VapoMetern.
APPLICATIONS
Water loss rate through the skin is a good indicator of the integrity of the barrier
function of the skin. With the VapoMeter you can assess the effect of trauma,
irritation or disease on the skin and monitor repair rates and responses to treatment.
You can also measure the effect of skin care products, environmental conditions and
lifestyle choices on the skin. You can also assess the effect of occlusive covers with
the VapoMeter. The TEWL values are typically increased when measuring after
removal of the covering, due to the water accumulated in the skin during the covering.
The VapoMeter has numerous applications in medicine and veterinary medicine, and
the pharmaceutical, chemical and personal care industries, including wound care,
hygiene and cosmetic products. The VapoMeter is a useful tool for R&D departments
DELFIN VAPOMETER
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of any institution dealing with the skin or permeability of textiles, materials and
tissues.
CONTENTS OF PACKAGE
SWL5001
Accessories
VapoMeter unit
Delfin Modular Core (DMC) software
2 standard adapters
Receiver unit
2 small adapters
Additional standard adapters
2 batteries
Additional small adapters
Carrying case
In-vitro adapters
User manual
RoomSensor
Display
Operating button
Measurement chamber
Adapter
MEASUREMENT PRINCIPLE
The VapoMeter is equipped with a closed cylindrical chamber that contains sensors
for relative humidity and temperature. The figure below shows a linear increase of
relative humidity (RH%) in the chamber shortly after placing the device in contact
with the skin. The TEWL is calculated from the increase in RH%. The chamber is
passively ventilated between measurements.
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USER INTERFACE DESCRIPTION
1. Operating button
2. PC connection indicator
3. Battery indicator
4. Main display
5. Three past values
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
The VapoMeter is ready for operation after stabilisation to ambient relative humidity
and temperature. It is recommended to store the device in similar conditions where it
is operated. The VapoMeter can be used with or without a PC connection. See
‘Settings and information menu/PC mode’ for the PC connection.
1
2
3
5
4
6
1. Switch the power on by pressing the black operating button. Check that the correct
adapter mode is selected (USE STANDARD/SMALL ADAPTER, see ‘Settings and
information menu /Adapter).
Press the button once again to start operation. Wait for 3 seconds’ countdown
combined with three short tones before skin contact, which is indicated by a long tone
and a message ONTO SKIN. Make sure that the measurement chamber is not close to
the skin or other sources of humidity before skin contact.
2. At the long tone, place the VapoMeter on the skin tightly but without too much
pressure. Hold the VapoMeter steady during the measurement. The measurement
takes from 5 to 16 seconds with the standard adapter and from 9 to 32 seconds with
the small adapter. The measurement time is automatically controlled and the progress
is shown on the display. The higher the TEWL, the shorter the measurement time. At
level 10 g/m²h the measurement time is 10 seconds with the standard adapter and 20
seconds with the small adapter.
3. Remove the VapoMeter from the skin after the next long tone and the message OFF
SKIN on the display. The TEWL reading as g/m2h is shown.
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4. The VapoMeter is ready for the next measurement when the measurement chamber
has been ventilated. The latest TEWL reading and the message VENTILATE with a
progressing bar alternates on the display until ventilation is finished. A new
measurement can be performed when the message PRESS TO MEASURE is displayed.
The operation can be interrupted after the measurement sequence has started. Press the
operating button once during the countdown or after the long tone. If the measurement
has been aborted, wait until PRESS TO MEASURE appears again after the ventilation.
Ventilation of the measurement chamber
The relative humidity in the measurement chamber has to decrease to the level of the
ambient RH% between measurements. This is automatically controlled. The
ventilating time increases with increasing evaporation readings. The VapoMeter may
be carefully waved to accelerate the moisture evaporation from the chamber,
particularly after high values.
Make sure, that the opening of the measurement chamber is not close to the skin or
other sources of humidity during the ventilation. If the relative humidity inside the
chamber increases during the ventilation, the blue progress bar turns red and
progressing stops. Wave the VapoMeter carefully to speed-up ventilation, if
necessary.
Standard and small adapters
The VapoMeter has been calibrated with the standard and small adapters. The
diameter of the standard opening is 11 mm and of the small opening is 4,5 mm. Use
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always one of these adapters with the corresponding measurement mode to obtain
reliable TEWL and TOWL (transonychial water loss) values. Pull the adapter out of
place and press the new one straight and tightly into the opening without twisting.
NOTE: If special in-vitro adapters are used, check from the package label or the
manufacturer which measurement mode should be used with the selected in-vitro
adapter.
SETTINGS AND INFORMATION MENU
1. Turn the VapoMeter on by pressing the operating button briefly.
2. When the power is on, press the operating button again and keep it pressed until
the menu is displayed. Then release.
3. The indicator “>” starts to scroll downwards through the 2 paged menu.
4. Press the operating button once again when the indicator ”>” is in front of the
desired row to select from the menu.
Power Off
The VapoMeter is switched off.
History
Five previous TEWL readings are shown either with numbers or as a graph. The type
of display changes automatically in 10 seconds or can be changed by pressing the
operating button briefly. After the graph view the message “PRESS TO MEASURE” is
shown on the display again.
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Adapter STD/SMALL
Change the adapter mode to correspond to the adapter in use: STD for a standard
adapter and SMALL for a smaller adapter with a silicon ring. When SMALL is selected,
it is indicated on the display before the measurement.
PC Mode OFF/ON
Turns the PC connection OFF or ON. A wireless connection to the computer can be
used only when the receiver unit is connected to the PC, the Delfin Modular Core
(DMC) software is running and the PC mode of the VapoMeter is ON.
Group Mode
The VapoMeter is waiting for a group message from the DMC program to obtain the
serial number of the receiver unit. Each receiver unit has a unique 12 digit address (i.e.
0123456789AB). This serial number is needed for the VapoMeter main unit to
establish a connection. If the VapoMeter is used with another receiver than currently
in use, it has to be grouped with that particular receiver unit. This is explained in the
DMC software manual. A VapoMeter can be used with only one receiver at a time.
Device info
Displays the software version, the manufacturing date, the serial number of the device
and the programmed receiver unit and the measurement counter.
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RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MEASUREMENTS WITH THE VAPOMETER
The VapoMeter produces reliable results when the person-related, environmental and
instrument-related variables are controlled. The person-related and environmental
variables affect the absolute water loss. The instrument-related variables affect the
measured water loss value.
Guidelines for TEWL measurements (references 1-3 on page 12) are useful for
controlling the person-related and environmental variables, but the instrument-related
variables do not apply to the closed chamber method. The following recommendations
guide the measurement with the VapoMeter.
Instrument-related variables
Pre-measurement conditions of the unit
Relative humidity and temperature in the measurement chamber have to equal the
ambient conditions. Make sure that the VapoMeter is acclimatized to the measurement
conditions before operation. Take the unit out of the case to acclimatize. Make sure
that the measurement chamber is not exposed to humidity from skin, moist tissue or
water between the measurements. Do not hold the probe continuously in the hand or
near any source of heat or cold (pocket, electrical device, draft).
Timing of skin contact
Timing of the skin contact at the long tone is important. The VapoMeter uses the
ambient relative humidity right after the start command for calculating TEWL. The
calculated evaporation rate is not reliable, if the VapoMeter is very close to or touches
the skin too early.
Contact pressure
The probe needs to be against the skin to seal the measurement chamber. If there are
gaps between the skin and the adapter, causing airflow in the chamber, the measured
value is not reliable. Hard pressure on the skin may increase the TEWL. Thus,
maintain a constant light pressure, but make sure that the chamber is totally closed by
the measured surface. The measurement is orientation-free, horizontally positioned
surface is not needed.
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Adapters
The VapoMeter has been calibrated with the standard and the small adapters. The
measured values are reliable only when using one of these adapters with the
corresponding adapter mode.
Person-related and environmental variables
This list contains only selected variables.
Sweating
The pre-measurement rest is important particularly when examining the skin water
barrier function (TEWL). If the skin surface is damp, the water loss rate includes free
water evaporation from the skin surface. This may be emphasised in hairy skin sites.
The measured site has to be uncovered during the rest, at least 5 to 15 minutes before
the measurement, depending on the degree of occlusion that inhibits the normal
evaporation.
Air flows
The measurement chamber is closed during the measurement and thus, not sensitive to
normal ambient air flows. However, it is not recommended to breath directly on the
adapter, e.g. during the measurement of lip.
Ambient relative humidity and temperature
We recommend measurements in relative humidity between 10 % and 60 % and in
temperatures between 20 C and 25 C.
References:
1. Skin Research and Technology, 2013;0;1-10. du Plessis et al. International
Guidelines for the in vivo assessment of skin properties in non-clinical settings:
Part 2. transepidermal water loss and skin hydration.
2. Contact Dermatitis, 1990:22:164-178. Pinnagoda et.al. Guidelines for
transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurement.
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3. Skin Pharmacol Appl Skin Physiol 2001;14:117-128. Vera Rogiers and the
EEMCO Group: EEMCO Guidance for the assessment of transepidermal water
loss in cosmetic sciences.
MAINTENANCE
Store the VapoMeter in its case, in a clean and dry place. The storage temperature and
relative humidity should be close to operating conditions. Avoid conditions where
condensation can occur, for example quick temperature changes. Prevent any
solutions, dirt and dust from entering the measurement chamber. Avoid exposing the
VapoMeter to excessive draft and vibration or direct sun light.
Cleaning
Clean the cover with a mild detergent solution. The adapters are removable and can be
cleaned separately. Clean the adapters with an antiseptic cleansing towel or ethanol
and let them dry properly after cleaning. Do not spray any cleaning solution or any
liquid on the humidity sensor.
Batteries
One set of alkaline batteries lasts typically up to 3000 measurements. If the device is
not used for several months it is recommended to remove the batteries.
The batteries are tested automatically and a warning about low batteries appears on
the display when the voltage goes under 2.3 V. Change the batteries when the
remaining charge in the battery indicator [3] turns red. If the message REPLACE
BATTERIES appears when the VapoMeter is switched on, measurements cannot be
done before the batteries are changed.
When changing batteries:
1. Unscrew the bottom half and remove it carefully, without pulling the wires.
2. Remove the empty batteries carefully.
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3. Insert the new batteries to match the (+) and (-) signs in the battery case.
ENG Incorrect insertion of batteries may damage the device.
Do not use rechargeable batteries.
FIN Paristojen virheellinen asennus voi vahingoittaa laitetta.
Älä käytä ladattavia paristoja.
SWE Fel insättning av batterier kan skada apparaten.
Använd ej laddningsbara batterier.
4. Replace and screw on the cover.
ENG Do not touch the circuit board with any object.
FIN Älä kosketa piirikorttia millään esineellä.
SWE Kretskortet får ej vidröras.
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TECHNICAL DATA
System components
• VapoMeter measuring unit
• 2 standard (Ø 11 mm) and 2 small (Ø 4.5 mm) adapters
• User manual
• Carrying case
Accessories
• DMC data collection software
• Receiver unit
• RoomSensor for monitoring ambient RH and temperature
• Set of standard adapters
• Set of small adapters
• Set of in-vitro adapters
Power Supply 2 x 1.5 V AA LR06 alkaline batteries
VapoMeter measuring unit
• Dimensions 175 x 40 x 35 mm
• Weight with batteries 135 g
• Protection class IP52
• Power consumption operating 120 mW (0.6 mAh/measurement)
• Measuring time with the standard adapter 5 to 16 seconds
with the small adapter 9 to 32 seconds
• Measurement range 0-300 g/m2h
with the standard adapter 3-200 g/m2h
with the small adapter 10-300 g/m2h
• Water loss in g/m2h, accuracy ±4 %
• Coefficient variation (SD/mean) measured on normal skin typically < 5 %
• Wireless technology Bluetooth Smart (4.0)
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• Recommended ambient conditions
Relative humidity Operating range 5% to 80%
Storage 5% to 80%
Temperature Operating range +15 °C to +35 °C
Storage +5 °C to +35 °C
• Two-year guarantee
Bluetooth module certifications
• Contains FCC ID: QOQBLE113
• Contains IC: 5123A-BGTBLE113
• MIC: 007-AB0103
• KCC: KCC-CRM-BGT-BLE113
• CE
EC Certificate Directive 93/42/EEC, medical devices 0537
US Patent 6,966,877
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DISPLAY MESSAGES
Message
Explanation
USE STANDARD/
SMALL ADAPTER
Check that a corresponding adapter is in use.
PRESS TO MEASURE
Instrument is ready to measure. Press the operating button to
proceed.
. 3, 2, 1 (timer before
skin contact)
Prepare to place the VapoMeter on the skin.
Do not keep the device near the skin or other sources of
evaporation.
ONTO SKIN
Place the VapoMeter onto the skin during the long tone.
MEASURING
Signal recording, keep the VapoMeter on the skin. The
progress bar shows the measuring time left.
OFF SKIN
The measurement is ready. Remove the VapoMeter from
the skin.
VENTILATE
NN % remaining
Let the measurement chamber ventilate freely. Ventilation
can be speeded by waiving the VapoMeter gently. The
progress bar shows the ventilation time left.
POWER OFF
Instrument is switched off.
NO PC
No PC connection detected.
MEASURING ABORTED
Measurement has been aborted, wait until ventilation is
finished and message PRESS TO MEASURE appears before
the next measurement.
APPENDIX A
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TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem
Before requesting repair check the following:
VapoMeter fails to start
or complete a
measurement.
The batteries may be low. Change the batteries.
VapoMeter fails to
“power-down”.
Remove and replace the batteries to reset the
processor. If necessary, change the batteries.
The TEWL readings do
not seem reasonable.
Check that the temperature and relative humidity
readings are correct. If not, allow time for the
VapoMeter to acclimatize to new ambient conditions
and re-measure.
Check that the measuring chamber is far enough from
sources of evaporation before and between
measurements. The TEWL value may be affected if the
RH% in the chamber differs from the ambient RH%
when starting a measurement.
Ensure that the standard and small adapters are used
with the correct adapter mode. Always use one of the
adapters.
Ensure that the device is placed on the skin at the right
moment (during the long tone on the zero after the 3-21 countdown).
Check that the device is in close contact with the skin.
The TEWL value may be affected if the chamber is not
properly closed by the measured surface (normally
skin) during the measurement.
VapoMeter fails to
transfer TEWL readings
to PC
If the PC connection in the Menu is ON, but the
wireless connection symbol is red, check the
following:
APPENDIX B
20
• Verify that the receiver unit is connected to the
PC’s USB port.
• The VapoMeter might be configured to use
another receiver than the one currently
connected to the PC. Try to “group” the
VapoMeter to use the current receiver. See
’Group Mode’ and DMC Software for details.
• Restart DMC Software
If the PC mode is ON in the menu and the wireless
connection symbol is green, but data is not
transferred to the software check the following:
• The Measure view is active in the software.
• The correct serial number of the VapoMeter is
entered and selected to the project. See DMC
User Manual for details on project editing.
• A site and a session are selected in the software
before measuring. The status text above the
site/session table must indicate “Ready to
record…”.
• Restart DMC software.
Note that this VapoMeter SWL5 model is not
compatible with DelfWin 4 software (or any earlier
software version) due to different wireless technology.
Delfin Modular Core (DMC) is the only compatible
software for data collection.
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GUARANTEE
The VapoMeter comes with a two (2) year guarantee from the date of purchase from
Delfin Technologies Ltd or an authorized distributor. During the guarantee period a
faulty device will be repaired or replaced free of charge by Delfin Technologies Ltd.
The guarantee covers raw materials and manufacturing faults. Batteries are excluded
from this guarantee.
In order to obtain service under this guarantee, the customer must notify Delfin
Technologies of the defect before the expiration of the guarantee period and make
suitable arrangements for the performance of service. The customer shall be
responsible for packaging and shipping the defective product to a location designated
by Delfin Technologies, transportation charges prepaid, with a copy of customer proof
of purchase.
This guarantee shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper
use or inadequate maintenance and care. Delfin Technologies shall not be obligated to
furnish service under this guarantee 1) to repair damage resulting from attempts by
personnel other than Delfin Technologies representatives to repair or service the
product; 2) to repair any damage or malfunction caused by the use of non-DelfinTechnologies supplies; 3) to service a product that has been modified or integrated
with other products when the effect of such modification or integration increases the
time or difficulty of servicing the product.
NOTHING IN THIS GUARANTEE SHALL BE CONSTRUED AS A GUARANTEE FOR
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY SPECIFIC USE OR PURPOSE, AND THIS
GUARANTEE IS LIEU OF ALL OTHER GUARANTEES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. DELFIN
TECHNOLOGIES SHALL NOT BE HELD LIABLE UNDER THE TERMS OF THIS GUARANTEE
FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES CLAIMED
IN CONNECTION WITH THE VAPOMETER’S PERFORMANCE OR AVAILABILITY.
Delfin Technologies Ltd.
P.O. Box 1199 (Microkatu 1)
70211 KUOPIO, FINLAND
APPENDIX C
22
Delfin Technologies Ltd.
info@delfintech.com
www.delfintech.com
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