US Patent:
20060213070, Sep 28, 2006
Inventors:
Norman Goldsobel - Commack NY, US
Pascal LeMarie - Smithtown NY, US
International Classification:
G01C 9/06
Abstract:
A method of sensing tilt includes applying an electrical signal, such as voltage, current, a constant signal, or a time-varying signal to at least one electrode of a first set of electrodes and measuring an electrical parameter using at least one electrode of a second set of electrodes. The electrodes are disposed in a conductive medium within an envelope. The electrical parameter represents tilt relative to a first axis. The electrical roles of the first and second sets of electrodes are reversed to determine tilt relative to a second axis. No more than four electrodes are used to determine tilt relative to two axes. A tilt sensor includes an envelope, conductive medium in the envelope, and four electrodes. A method of making a tilt sensor includes providing at least four electrodes, forming an envelope to receive at least a portion of the electrodes, placing a conductive medium into the envelope, and sealing the conductive medium in the envelope.