Transducer enclosure with variable moisture proofing
US11215488B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jan 4, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 23, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY04S20/30
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An enclosure for an ultrasonic transducer is configured for variable moisture protection. During storage and transport, the enclosure may be kept in a sealed state, which prevents entry of humidity. During operation in a wet environment (e.g., in a water meter attached to a pipe) water leaks into the enclosure very slowly, even when sealed. Accordingly, a tube is opened, allowing water molecules to be exhausted from the enclosure and absorbed by a desiccant within the water meter. In an example, a tube passes from an interior of the enclosure to an exterior of the enclosure. An end cap on the tube prevents humid air from entering the enclosure during storage and transport of the ultrasonic transducer. During operation in a humid environment, removal of the end cap allows air exchange to ventilate the enclosure and allows a desiccant outside the enclosure to absorb humidity exhausted from the enclosure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.