Variable resistive element
US6518873B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 13, 2001 |
| Grant date | Feb 11, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 13, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01C10/32
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A variable resistive element for use in a sensing unit for measuring liquid level in a container, through interaction with a sliding electrical contact operating in conjunction with a float, includes a conductor pattern deposited on a substrate. A region of resistive material is also deposited on the substrate and makes electrical contact with the conductive pattern. A region of the conductor pattern functions as a contact area for the sliding electrical contact. This region is coated with a plating material, for example nickel or a nickel alloy. The use of the plating reduces the requirements for expensive metals in the conductor pattern. The variable resistive element is particularly suited for use in a fuel level sensor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.