Self diagnostics of a particulate matter sensor

摘要

A particulate matter sensor includes first and second electrodes spaced from each other with a bias resistor connected between the first and second electrodes. The particulate matter sensor allows an open circuit fault condition in the sensor or in the connectors or wiring to the sensor to be detected. A sensing system using the particulate matter sensor and a method for diagnosing faults in a sensing system are also provided.

主权项

1. A sensor for detecting particulate matter in a gas stream, comprising:
an electrically nonconductive substrate; a first electrode disposed on a first surface of the substrate; a second electrode disposed on the first surface of the substrate and spaced away from the first electrode; a bias resistor disposed on the substrate electrically connected between the first electrode and the second electrode; and a sealing means to seal a portion of the substrate from the gas stream, wherein the bias resistor is located on the portion of the substrate that is sealed from the gas stream.