Detecting a dielectric article

US9244104B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Robert Bosch GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Markus Hahl · Ditzingen, DE
• Oliver Grossmann · Kelkheim, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: May 11, 2011
• Grant date: Jan 26, 2016
• Expiry date: Aug 27, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01V3/088
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A device for detecting a dielectric object includes a first electrode and a second electrode. A first unit is configured to determine a first capacitance that exists between the first electrode and a common reference point and that is influenced by the object. A second unit is configured to determine a second capacitance that exists between the second electrode and the reference point and that is influenced by the object. The device further includes a control unit for actuating the first and second units and an evaluating unit that is configured to detect the object when the determined capacitances differ by more than a predetermined amount. The control unit is configured to actuate the units in such a manner that the capacitance determinations are carried out in succession. A switching unit is provided so as to electrically connect the electrode of the respective non-actuated unit to the common reference point.