Sensor for the Detection of Random Signals which are Suitable for Correlative Signal Processing

Author:  Massen, Robert
Source:  US Patent 4,604,904
Doc ID:  1986036
Year of Publication:  1986
Abstract:  
The sensor is intended for the detection of random signals suitable for correlative signal processing, originating from a process in motion relative to the sensor for example a flow passing through a pipeline. Signals of this nature are used in particular for the measurement of velocity or running time. the sensor is subdivided into several sensor segments in order to increase sensitivity for a given special frequency filter effect. In the case of a capacitive sensor, each sensor segment consists of two electrodes encompassing the pipeline. The sensor segments are arranged along the direction of motion according to a coding selected on the basis of the desired special frequency filter effect, with the introduction of gaps which are insensitive to the characterizing parameter of the process in motion. The special frequency filter effect and in particular its limit frequency will then correspond to that of an individual sensor segment, while the total aperture which determines the sensitivity is equal to the sum of the aperature segments of the sensor segments present.