Robust sensor with top cap

Abstract

A robust sensor, such as a robust flow sensor or pressure sensor, is provided. In one illustrative embodiment, a robust flow sensor includes one or more flow sensor components secured relative to a membrane, and a substrate for supporting the membrane. In some cases, the one or more flow sensor components may be substantially thermally isolated from the substrate by the membrane. One or more wire bond pads may be situated adjacent to a first side of the substrate and may be provided for communicating signals relative to the one or more flow sensor components. A top cap may be situated adjacent to the first side of the substrate and secured relative to the substrate. The top cap may define at least part of a fluid inlet and/or an outlet of the flow sensor assembly, and may at least partially define a flow channel that extends from the inlet, past at least one of the one or more flow sensor components, and out the outlet of the flow sensor assembly. The top cap may be structured and attached relative to the first side of the substrate such that the one or more wire bond pads are not exposed to a fluid in the flow channel, but are accessible for electrical connection to an external device. While a flow sensor is used as an example, it is contemplated that any suitable sensor may be used, as desired.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.