Self-calibrating pressure transducer
US7043960B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 17, 2004 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 28, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01L27/005
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A self-calibrating pressure transducer is disclosed. The device uses an embedded zirconia membrane which pumps a determined quantity of oxygen into the device. The associated pressure can be determined, and thus, the transducer pressure readings can be calibrated. The zirconia membrane obtains oxygen from the surrounding environment when possible. Otherwise, an oxygen reservoir or other source is utilized. In another embodiment, a reversible fuel cell assembly is used to pump oxygen and hydrogen into the system. Since a known amount of gas is pumped across the cell, the pressure produced can be determined, and thus, the device can be calibrated. An isolation valve system is used to allow the device to be calibrated in situ. Calibration is optionally automated so that calibration can be continuously monitored. The device is preferably a fully integrated MEMS device. Since the device can be calibrated without removing it from the process, reductions in costs and down time are realized.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.