Sensor assembly for detecting multiple events and distinguishing between them
US4926129A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 12, 1988 |
| Grant date | May 15, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 12, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01M3/165
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A sensing assembly suitable for detecting both a first event which involves the presence of an electrolyte and a second event which does not involve the presence of an electrolyte, and for distinguishing between them. The assembly comprises a first conductor and a second conductor which is electrically insulated from the first conductor in the absence of both first and second events but becomes electrically connected to the first conductor by either an ionic connection in the presence of a first event or an electronic connection in the presence of a second event. The assembly also comprises a sensing apparatus of determining whether the connection is ionic or electronic. The assembly is useful for detecting leaks of hydrocarbons, e.g. gasoline, and water in storage tanks.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.