Self-diagnostic sensor system
AssigneeThermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
InventorsSteven J. West, Timothy C. Gillette
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A system for monitoring the viability of an electrochemical cell measures the impedance of the cell over a wide range of impedances and with diminished phase shift over prior methods so that a more nearly accurate assessment of the impedance can be made. The system is particularly useful for four electrode systems, but is not so limited. It may advantageously be incorporated in the cell itself to further minimize cabling artifacts.
Claims15
A method for monitoring the state of an electrochemical cell, comprising providing sensor circuitry integral with the cell for measuring the electrical impedance of the cell over a range of frequencies.
Apparatus for determining the viability of an electrochemical cell, comprising sensor circuitry integral with the cell for monitoring the electrical impedance of the cell over a range of frequencies.
Apparatus according to claim 11 in which said response signals provide a measure of the voltage created in said cell responsive to a current applied thereto.
Apparatus for determining the viability of an electrochemical cell, comprising
- a. a signal generator providing AC drive signals over a frequency range;
- b. a signal conditioning unit for receiving said drive signals and providing, in response thereto, test signals of controlled amplitude and phase to an electrochemical cell being monitored;
- c. amplifier circuitry for receiving from said cell response signals responsive to the application of said test signals thereto;
- and
- d. analyzer circuitry for receiving signals indicative of said test signals and said response signals and for providing outputs indicative of a ratio of said signals over said frequency range.
Apparatus according to claim 15 in which said signal conditioning unit includes circuitry for generating an alarm when the viability of the cell is impaired.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.