Cross-channel probe system for time domain reflectometry detection of fluid flow

摘要

A sensor system for use with time domain reflectometry systems to allow measurement of relative proportions of intermixed constituents having differing electrical permittivities contained in a fluid mixture. The sensor has at least one primary electrode and one secondary electrode which are spaced apart across a flow channel. One electrode is connected to a first conductor carrying the active time domain reflectometry signal pulse. The other electrode is connected to the passive or ground conductor which carries any reactive signal resulting from the active signal. A fluid mixture of variable proportions will demonstrate a variable dielectric constant which affects the reflected signals sensed by the time domain reflectometer.