Proximity sensor resistant to environmental effects
First Claim
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1. A proximity sensor, comprising:
- an elongated circular cylindrical sidewall portion formed of a material comprising copper and having spaced apart ends, the material having a thermal conductivity of at least about three Watts per centimeter per Kelvin; and
proximity sensing circuitry located within the sidewall portion, the proximity sensor being operative to sense proximity of an object through one of the ends of the sidewall, wherein the sidewall portion is threaded about an axis extending longitudinally through the sensor housing, whereby when the proximity sensor is employed in a welding environment, slag build-up is mitigated.
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Abstract
A housing for a proximity sensor is resistant to harsh environmental effects, such as scorching particles due to sputtering in a welding environment. The sensor housing is formed of a material having a high thermal conductivity, such as copper or an alloy thereof. As a result, the housing is able to rapidly dissipate heat and, in turn, mitigate weld slag build-up so as to improve the efficacy of the sensor.
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Citations
11 Claims
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1. A proximity sensor, comprising:
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an elongated circular cylindrical sidewall portion formed of a material comprising copper and having spaced apart ends, the material having a thermal conductivity of at least about three Watts per centimeter per Kelvin; and
proximity sensing circuitry located within the sidewall portion, the proximity sensor being operative to sense proximity of an object through one of the ends of the sidewall, wherein the sidewall portion is threaded about an axis extending longitudinally through the sensor housing, whereby when the proximity sensor is employed in a welding environment, slag build-up is mitigated. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3)
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4. A proximity sensor, comprising:
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sensing circuitry for sensing the proximity of an object; and
an elongated circular cylindrical externally threaded housing formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least about three Watts per centimeter per Kelvin and having spaced apart ends for receiving the proximity sensing circuitry therein;
whereby when the proximity sensor is employed in a welding environment, slag build up on the housing is mitigated. - View Dependent Claims (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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Specification