Flexible Fluid Level Sensor With Improved Measurement Capability

摘要

A capacitive fluid sensor is provided that utilizes a flexible substrate. It has a plurality of conductive members supported on it which are connected to a connecting end. The conductive members are arranged in an array and are aligned with a longitudinal axis of the substrate and the members are separated by intervening spaces. The intervening spaces are arranged so that they cross the longitudinal axis at an angle such that adjacent conductive members overlap each other when viewed from a side edge of the sensor. Such an arrangement provide more accurate measurement of fluid levels within containers.

主权项

1. A capacitive fluid level sensor for sensing a level of a fluid within a vessel, the sensor positioned alongside the vessel and separated from the fluid by a wall of the vessel, the sensor comprising:
a flexible substrate capable of conforming to the wall of the vessel; a plurality of conductive, planar members supported by the substrate, the conductive members being spaced apart from each other by intervening spaces and aligned in an array arranged along a longitudinal axis of the substrate, the intervening spaces between adjacent ones of the conductive members being disposed such that they intersect the longitudinal axis at an angle; and a plurality of conductive traces extending between individual conductive members and a connecting end of the substrate.