LIQUID PRESENCE/TURBIDITY SENSOR USING SINGLE OPTICAL CHANNEL

摘要

A multisensor employs an optical system that is modified by the index of refraction of fluid passing between a light emitter and light detector to successfully distinguish between air and water (of any turbidity) and between water of different turbidity values. The optical system may employ lenses contacting the fluid to change their focal length and thus to focus and defocus light on the light detector depending on an index of refraction of the fluid.

主权项

1. A multisensor comprising:
an electronic light source and electronic light detector positioned at ends of an optical path through a channel open to receive a passage of fluid therethrough; and at least one optical element positioned along the optical path in contact with the fluid to change a transmission of light between the electronic light source and electronic light detector as a function of an index of refraction of the fluid relative to material of the optical element to produce a first level of transmission of light from the electronic light source to the electronic light detector when the fluid in the passage is air and to produce a second level of transmission of light from the electronic light source to the electronic light detector when the fluid in the passage is clear water, the first level being greater than the second level.