Abstract: A 3D liquid detection sensor, liquid-sensitive building material, and liquid detection systems have been provided. The 3D sensor comprises a 3D liquid detection field and an electrical connector to supply a resistance measurement responsive to liquid in the detection field. In one aspect, the 3D liquid detection field includes a first plurality of pins having a distal end electrically connected to a first electrical contact of the electrical connector, and a second plurality of pins having a distal end electrically connected to a second electrical contact. In one aspect, each pin includes a building material attachment barb attached to a pin proximal end. This permits the sensor to be fixedly mounted in drywall or ceiling tile, for example. More specifically, the 3D detection field may include a dielectric sheet (either rigid or flexible), and electrically conductive traces formed overlying the dielectric sheet, with pins extending from the traces.

Abstract: An elimination-absorber monitoring system addresses diaper-monitoring problems with a unique, low cost, multi-layer disposable sensor structure that absorbs small volumes of urine, yet allows most urine volume to flow unimpeded through it, and into the diaper below. When connected with a reusable, miniature monitor/indicator unit, the sensor presents a clear and on-going change of measurement condition upon experiencing a rapid influx into the diaper of a significant volume of urine, and/or upon a significant reduction in the available absorbency of the diaper's top surface. The sensor additionally provides recessed, protected elements for similarly presenting a clear and on-going change in measurement condition upon experiencing the presence of fecal matter. Further provided is the monitor unit employing narrow, widely-spaced, fast rise-time, fast transition-time pulses for conductivity measurement and alarm activation.

Abstract: A urinous wet alarm to detect a soaked diaper and generate an audio alarm to alert replacement includes a shell to house a test IC. The test IC connects to a lithium battery, a thin alarm speaker and one end of a sensing unit which is a pliable, elongate, narrow and thin plate and has a detection circuit consisting of two conductive wires of opposite polarity extended from the shell. The sensing unit may be inserted into a test insertion hole formed on a diaper during production. Urine soaked the fluid absorption layer of the diaper makes the conductive wires conductive, and the test IC determines the urine overflow condition to activate the thin alarm speaker to generate an audio alarm.

Abstract: A system for detecting water leaks is described. In one embodiment, the system includes a plurality of sensors, selected from a moisture sensor, a water level sensor, and/or a water temperature sensor. A processor collects moisture readings from the sensors. In one embodiment, the processor reports a possible water leak when a moisture sensor detects moisture above a moisture threshold value. In one embodiment, the processor report a water leak when the water level reading exceeds a water threshold value and/or when the temperature reading exceeds a temperature threshold value.

Abstract: A water detecting system of a portable electric device comprises a housing, an electronic circuitry board, a battery electrically connected to the electronic circuitry board for providing electrical power to the electronic circuitry board, and at least one pair of electric terminals, the pair of electric terminals comprising one positive terminal and one negative terminal located in close proximity to the positive terminal. When the pair of electric terminals are electrically conducted, a current runs through the pair of electric terminals. The water detecting system also comprises a current detector electrically connected to the pair of electric terminals for detecting if the current running through the pair of electric terminals exceeds a threshold level, and a switch connected to the current detector and the battery for disconnecting the battery from the electronic circuitry board when the current exceeds the threshold level.

Abstract: A disposable sensoring absorbent structure for detecting wetness comprises at least one absorbent layer and at least one sensing device comprising a magnetoelastic film. Such an absorbent structure enables the monitoring the status, e.g., wetness and/or at least one biological and/or chemical analyte, in an absorbent article. A change in status, such as wetness, may reflect an event, such as urination or a feces event. Also included are methods for detecting wetness and/or at least one biological and/or at least one chemical analyte, using the sensoring absorbent structure according to an embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A method of detecting wetness in an accessory jack of a portable communication device (100), such as a two-way radio, is provided. By monitoring an accessory jack detect pin of the radio (104) for a change in resistance (106) that falls within predetermined parameters, a determination can be made (108) as to whether the accessory jack contacts are wet or dry. An alert is provided to a user (110) of the portable communication device that the accessory jack contacts need to be dried.

Abstract: A discreet bed-wetting alarm comprising a controller, earpiece with earphone, and interconnecting cable. The controller comprises a clock/processor with timer, a display, a sound signal/tone generator, an amplifier programmed to provide an increase in sound volume level, a battery, and various input devices. A plurality of alarm time selections corresponding to known bed-wetting event times is subsequently made and a suitable alarm tone or tones is selected to awaken or alert the user. The discreet bed-wetting alarm controller and earphone may be incorporated into the earpiece for further discretion. Alternate embodiments include a vibrating alarm and/or a flashing light alarm.

Abstract: A battery operated moisture indicator for selective attachment to an existing diaper worn by a baby, having an audible alarm and having a liquid crystal display bulb, for providing an audible alert and a visual alert, respectively, when the diaper has been wet by the baby. The circuit includes a mechanism for selectively activating the alarm and the liquid crystal display bulb when an aqueous electrolyte-containing solution has wetted the diaper. The moisture indicator is provided with a diaphanous sac having a clip for selectively attaching the moisture indicator to the external surface of the front of an existing diaper, thereby providing a moisture indicator that is comfortable for a baby to wear.

Abstract: A system and method for assessing fluid distribution. According to one aspect of the disclosure, a fluid detection network is used to assess the fluid distribution of a fluid collection article having a plurality of tested regions. Each tested region of the fluid collection article is serviced by the fluid detection network. The fluid detection network is configured to indicate a fluid distribution of the fluid collection article. According to another aspect of the disclosure, a monitoring subsystem assesses a fluid distribution of a test area serviced by a fluid detection network, wherein the fluid detection network has a net characteristic indicative of the fluid distribution of the test area.

Abstract: An automated device monitors moisture content in exterior sheathing of a building for detecting moisture intrusion into the sheathing walls. A plurality of moisture sensors are embedded in selected exterior walls of the building behind the cladding and are adapted to provide signals representative of the moisture content in the walls at each of the selected locations. A control unit is operatively connected with each of the plurality of moisture sensors for generating an alarm signal when at least one of the signals representative of the moisture content in the plurality of walls is indicative of a moisture content in excess of a predetermined threshold value.

Abstract: A liquid sensor device, system and method depends on the structural deformation of a trigger material in contact with a liquid, such as water, to convert potential energy of a resilient material to kinetic energy that triggers a mechanical response in an activated state. A transfer arm is biased toward the activated state and may be retained in a deactivated state, against urging of a spring, by a trigger material that may be structurally rigid while substantially dry. Upon contact with a liquid, such as water, the trigger material may relinquish structural rigidity and be substantially deformed. Upon substantial deformation of the trigger material, the transfer arm may be urged into the activated state by activating a locking mechanism or electronically, such as by activating a switch such as a micro switch. In the activated state, the triggered mechanical response may activate an alarm, and may trigger an electrical response to close a valve, such as a natural gas valve on a gas-heated hot water tank.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus of digitally controlling a plant pot including a case coupled to the outer circumference of the pot, a moisture sensor drawn from the case, for detecting moisture in soil contained in the pot, a liquid crystal display (LCD) installed in the case, for displaying a text or icons, an audio output portion for outputting a voice message, a message storage portion for storing an orderer's message and controlling messages, a data input/output portion connected to a personal computer, for inputting/outputting message data, a key input portion for inputting key signals through a key pad such as a power key or a record key, a battery for supplying power to each circuit block, and a controller for performing a plant pot controlling program, reading a message stored in the message storage portion in response to the moisture sensor and a signal from the key input portion to output a voice to the audio output portion, displaying the name of a plant planted on the pot and information for controlling

Abstract: A water skier tow bar assembly includes a tow bar handle and control actuators that can be actuated by a user and indicative of a desired skier condition. A housing is connected to the tow bar and includes a wireless radio transmitter operatively connected to the control actuators for generating wireless radio signals of desired skier conditions or generating wireless radio signals indicative of a skier down condition. In one aspect of the invention, a wireless radio transmitter is contained in a housing formed as a float assembly and has an aperture through which a tow rope passes to permit the housing to be carried by a tow rope. When a skier falls, a water actuated switch initiates transmission of a wireless radio signal indicative of a skier down condition.

Abstract: An apparatus for sensing the presence of a conductive fluid on an upwardly facing generally planar surface of a floor, and a method of installation thereof. The apparatus includes an electrically insulating base dimensioned for installation under the floor such that the upwardly facing generally planar surface is maintained generally planar upon completion of the installation, The apparatus further includes first and second sensing conductors connected to the base and extending therefrom in generally parallel, spaced apart relation and being operable to be inserted into respective openings extending through the floor from a base contacting surface of the floor to the upwardly facing generally planar surface. Conductive fluid on the upwardly facing generally planar surface, in contact with and between the first and second conductors, is operable to conduct an electric current supplied by a sensing circuit connected to the first and second conductors.

Abstract: A sensor for indicating moisture, comprising a unit whose conductivity is dependent on the current moisture exposure and an electric circuit, the unit being included as a component in the electric circuit and the electric circuit being activable by applying an electric field and/or a magnetic field over the same to generate a measurable signal, which is dependent on the total resistance of the circuit. The unit comprises an enzyme together with a substrate, which enzyme is activated when moisture exposure occurs to catalyse a reaction with the substrate that is dependent on the degree of moisture exposure, the substrate reaction product increasing the conductivity of the unit. The invention also relates to the use of such a sensor and a method of using a sensor to indicate moisture.

Abstract: Irrigation systems, moisture sensors and related methods having a sensor embedded in the ground to sense moisture and help control watering. The sensor is responsive to capacitance changes from ground moisture variations. The sensor uses spaced insulated electrodes which are mounted within a granular filled chamber within a water-permeable shell. The sensor is mounted as part of a ground unit that also includes a high frequency driver that excites the sensor. The ground unit further has a detector circuit which produces a moisture indicating signal based on the capacitance which varies with ground moisture. Also disclosed are controllers that electrically isolate the ground units so that reliable moisture signals can be obtained and used to control irrigation. The controllers can be configured to provide multiple zone operation using a shared controller having shared or independent moisture adjusters.

Abstract: An apparatus for incontinence detection and notification comprises a notification component, for providing notice that an incontinent event has occurred, and a sensor. The sensor includes a sensing pad for collecting and retaining fluid resulting from the incontinent event, and a circuit housed within the sensing pad. The circuit has a pair of stainless steel electrodes, which are in electronic communication with the notification component. A closed circuit is created between the electrodes by the fluid resulting from the incontinent event, causing an electronic signal to be communicated to the notification component. The circuit may also include a plurality of connectors placed in electronic communication with the notification component to diagnose a disconnected or poorly connected circuit.

Abstract: A moisture detection sensor includes a resonant circuit composed of an antenna coil 53 and a capacitor C. A noncontact tag composed of covering materials 51 and 57 covers the resonant circuit. The capacitor C has a pair of electrodes 52 and 56 and a dielectric 55 interposed between the electrodes 52 and 56, and the covering material 57 contains a through-hole 57a that allows the liquid to infiltrate into the dielectric 55 from outside.

Abstract: A system is provided to monitor for moisture at separate locations interior to exterior structure cladding. The system includes a plurality of moisture sensors, at least one of which is disposed at each location to be monitored. Upon activation by the presence of moisture at its respective said location, the moisture sensor generates a signal. The system may also include a receiver in communication with the moisture sensors, to provide an identifier of the location of an activated moisture sensor. The moisture sensors and receiver may communicate via wiring, or wirelessly. The system so provided may be disposed within a single structure, or within a plurality of structures, with the receiver disposed within such a structure or remote to any such monitored structure.

Abstract: A leak-stopper system for water plumbing (2) has a leak-probe circuit (1) positioned in water-detection proximity to water plumbing for a building. Leak sensors (3) which include three-probe sensors (14) are spaced apart on the leak-probe circuit for conveying existence of leakage water (7) electrically to a control board (4) with electrical communication to visual signalers (5) and to a plumbing valve (6) for shutting off water to the water plumbing automatically before leakage in the water plumbing can be fixed and to indicate where one or more leaks are for being fixed to prevent water damage to a building or its contents. Preferably, electrical current to the leak-probe circuit and to the plumbing valve is from a power source that includes an isolated power source which can be a chargeable battery (9) or other DC power supplier (12) for supplying a safe level of current for a predetermined period of leak-detection time in case of power outage to the building.

Abstract: A urine detection system and method. According to one aspect of the invention, the method includes generating a magnetic field within an effective distance of a potentially wetted area, and conducting a plurality of measurements to construct a magnetic energy distribution function corresponding to the potentially wetted area. The method further includes comparing at least one parameter of the magnetic energy distribution function to a set of stored parameters corresponding to known wetness conditions to identify a wetness condition of the potentially wetted area.

Abstract: A method for detecting the ingress of liquid into an empty elongate hollow structure such as a support for an offshore platform which is at least in part submerged in a liquid. Sound is introduced into the structure by a sound generating device mounted within the hollow structure, the device comprising sound generating means and liquid detection means. When the liquid detection means detect an ingress of liquid into the structure, the sound generating means generate a sound in response to this detection. The generated sound propagates through the structure and sound is detected, and detection of the sound giving an indication of liquid ingress into the structure.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an apparatus and system for a target game used in conjunction with a toilet or urinal, wherein a target body is positioned within the toilet basin. The target game comprises a target body and coupling members, wherein the target body is divided into sections. The coupling members secure the target body to the toilet basin and include a securing member and an attachment member, wherein the securing member is any device that is capable of attaching to the toilet and wherein the attachment member couples the securing member to the target body. Other embodiments of the apparatus and system include image projection systems to create the target.

Abstract: A rain sensor and a method for installing a rain sensor are provided for a motor vehicle. The rain sensor includes a housing in which at least one printed circuit board is located and which has a light-conducting member, which at least partially closes the housing in the manner of a lid. A plate is located between the light-conducting member and the printed circuit board. During installation, the plate is partially punched through.

Abstract: A sensor for optical detection of foreign bodies, in particular raindrops, on a window, in particular on the windshield of a motor vehicle, having a sensor element that is coupled to the inside of the window and having a fastening device, which is glued to the window, wherein the housing part has a fastening part pivotably attached to it, which can be brought into engagement with the fastening device by the clamping tension.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor unit for detecting the wetting of a window. Signals from the condensation sensor are used to control an air conditioning, heating, and/or ventilation unit. The signals of the rain sensor, on the contrary, are used to control a windshield wiper or washing unit for vehicles. A sensor unit, which comprises two sensors, is placed on the interior of the window. In a preferred variant, both are coupled to a common switchable evaluation unit, so that through mutual evaluation of the two sensors or their signals, both incipient condensation on the interior of a vehicle window and the wetting of the exterior, e.g., by rain, is detected. In an improvement of the invention, both sensors are integrated into a sensor module.

Abstract: Liquid leaks from a vessel cause shorts between at least one elongate sensing wire and another conductor when the fluid absorbs into the porous sheath of the sensing wire. The other conductor may comprise a second elongate sensing wire having similar porous sheath or a conductive tray or other conductive collection means. The sensing wire is placed in proximity to the vessel, such as beneath or immediately adjacent. Shorts are detected from the electrical characteristics of a circuit including the sensing wire and location is determined therefrom.

Abstract: A battery powered water leak detector and audible alarm are held on a credit card sized plastic board that has sufficient unobstructed area for visible messages, such as advertising, to be printed of otherwise affixed thereon.

Abstract: A personal care monitoring system is disclosed. In accordance with one embodiment, the monitoring system may include a wetness sensor configured to detect a wetness event occurring within an associated diaper, and a human life sensor configured to detect presence of human life relative to the associated diaper. A monitoring unit having a system controller in communication with the wetness and human life sensors may be utilized in such a manner that the system controller monitors the wetness and human life sensors and generates data associated with detected wetness events and presence of human life relative to the associated diaper.

Abstract: A tape-drive condensation sensor includes a probe with first and second spaced-apart electrodes that define a passage for air flow within a pneumatic conduit. A voltage source is coupled between the electrodes and the voltage of the source and the spacing between the electrodes are adapted to pass a current when a drop of condensation forms between the electrodes. An alarm circuit is activated by the flow of current, the alarm being adapted to signal an event of discernible condensation.

Abstract: The moisture sensor and indicator for a wet pickup vacuum cleaner, more particularly a wet extraction type carpet cleaner, is positioned in the suction duct to sense when water droplets or moisture is traveling through the suction duct. An indicator is activated to indicate to the operator that water is being extracted from the carpet. The sensor may alternatively be located in the bottom of the floor-engaging portion where it contracts the floor. When the degree of moisture in the carpet exceeds a predetermined threshold an indicator is activated to indicate to the operator that the floor is still wet and to continue extracting moisture from the floor. Alternatively, the moisture sensor can be used as a safety device on a dry pickup vacuum cleaner. When moisture is detected within the suction duct, the motor-fan assembly of the dry pickup vacuum cleaner is disabled to prevent a potentially hazardous condition.

Abstract: The purpose of this Plant Water Alarm is to provide a low cost visual and audible Alarm of low moisture level in domesticated plants or other.

Abstract: Cameras and image processing techniques are applied to the problem of spill detection. Fixed background data may be removed using a technique based on image subtraction. The remainder of one or more images may be segmented. The segments may then be tested to identify and remove from further analysis segments corresponding to non-spill foreground objects, for example by forming luminance and/or chrominance profiles to detect the presence of a high rate of specular albido that would be associated with a wet spill. Further testing may be done, for example by determining if a segment corresponds to a planar object lying in the plane of the floor using planar projection transforms and multiple cameras. If a segment is likely to indicate a spill, a notification may be generated.

Abstract: The moisture sensor and indicator for a wet pickup vacuum cleaner, more particularly a wet extraction type carpet cleaner, is positioned in the suction duct to sense when water droplets or moisture is traveling through the suction duct. An indicator is activated to indicate to the operator that water is being extracted from the carpet. The sensor may alternatively be located in the bottom of the floor-engaging portion where it contracts the floor. When the degree of moisture in the carpet exceeds a predetermined threshold an indicator is activated to indicate to the operator that the floor is still wet and to continue extracting moisture from the floor. Alternatively, the moisture sensor can be used as a safety device on a dry pickup vacuum cleaner. When moisture is detected within the suction duct, the motor-fan assembly of the dry pickup vacuum cleaner is disabled to prevent a potentially hazardous condition.

Abstract: An elimination-absorber monitoring system addresses diaper-monitoring problems with a unique, low cost, multi-layer disposable sensor structure that absorbs small volumes of urine, yet allows most urine volume to flow unimpeded through it, and into the diaper below. When connected with a reusable, miniature monitor/indicator unit, the sensor presents a clear and on-going change of measurement condition upon experiencing a rapid influx into the diaper of a significant volume of urine, and/or upon a significant reduction in the available absorbency of the diaper's top surface. The sensor additionally provides recessed, protected elements for similarly presenting a clear and on-going change in measurement condition upon experiencing the presence of fecal matter. Further provided is the monitor unit employing narrow, widely-spaced, fast rise-time, fast transition-time pulses for conductivity measurement and alarm activation.

Abstract: A drop detection device having a spherical inertia member disposed within an enclosure. The enclosure has multiple faces, preferably six faces oriented orthogonally, with each face having a pressure contact member. The exertion of a predetermined force by the spherical inertia member on the pressure contact member causes a signal to be activated. Multiple enclosures maybe disposed in different orientations in a housing of a fragile product to provide a signal if the product is dropped in any one of multiple directions.

Abstract: A moisture detector is presented which uses the effects of moisture on the chemistry and electrical conductivity of drywall material. Conducting probes are installed in a drywall material and the level of electric current between the probes is monitored and correlated with the concentration of moisture in the drywall material along a path between the probes.

Abstract: A sensor for indicating moisture, comprising a unit whose conductivity is dependent on the current moisture exposure and an electric circuit, said unit being included as a component in said electric circuit and said electric circuit being activable by applying an electric field and/or a magnetic field over the same to generate a measurable signal, which is dependent on the total resistance of the circuit. The unit comprises an enzyme together with a substrate, which enzyme is activated when moisture exposure occurs to catalyse a reaction with the substrate that is dependent on the degree of moisture exposure, the substrate reaction product increasing the conductivity of the unit. The invention also relates to the use of such a sensor and a method of using a sensor to indicate moisture.

Abstract: A patient fluid discharge monitoring method and apparatus includes at least one article configured to be worn by a patient, the article having absorbent material and a RF tag received adjacent the absorbent material. The RF tag is excited with an excitation signal and the response of the RF tag to the excitation signal is detected. The detected response of the RF tag is compared to a predetermined response. The RF tag has a first detected response when the absorbent material has no fluid therein and a second detected response when the absorbent material has fluid therein.

Abstract: A method of detecting a dry/wet state of a thermistor bead comprises the steps of: conducting current through the thermistor bead selectively between first and second current levels; measuring a difference in voltage across the thermistor bead in response to the first and second current levels; and detecting the dry/wet state of the thermistor bead based on the measured difference in voltage. In one embodiment, the first and second current levels conducted through the thermistor bead are both less than thirty milliamps. Apparatus for embodying this detection method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A fluid level monitor is provided for use in a tree stand. The tree stand defines a fluid-containing well for receiving a cut end of a tree. The monitor includes a body, and an indicator located on the body. A fluid sensor is operatively connected to the indicator, and is adapted for communicating with the well of the tree stand. When the fluid contained in the well reaches a predetermined minimum level, the fluid sensor causes the indicator to emit an alarm indicating a low level fluid condition in the well.

Abstract: A moisture sensing and indicating system for signaling to a caretaker that a diaper has moisture therein. The moisture sensing and indicating system includes a casing having a plurality of apertures therein for accessing an interior of the casing. The casing is positioned between absorbent material and watertight material of a diaper. A sensor for detecting moisture is positioned in the casing. Moisture actuates the sensor by completing a circuit. A transmitter for transmitting a signal is positioned in the casing and operationally coupled to the sensor. A housing has a top wall, a bottom wall and a peripheral wall extending between integrally coupled to the top and bottom walls. The top wall has a plurality of openings therein. A receiver for receiving a signal from the transmitter is positioned in the housing. A speaker for emitting a sound is securely positioned in the housing and traverses the openings in the top wall. The speaker is operationally coupled to the receiver.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring the pressurization performance of a cable network, such as a telecommnunications cable network, including monitoring a plurality of pressurization sensors, monitoring a plurality of pressurization alarms, receiving data related to the plurality of pressurization sensors and the plurality of pressurization alarms, and generating an index. The index taking into account the number of pressurization sensors monitored during a predetermined period of time, the number of pressurization sensors which are inoperable during the predetermined period of time, and the number of pressurization alarms which are tripped during the predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A disposable sensoring absorbent structure for detecting wetness comprises at least one absorbent layer and at least one sensing device comprising a magnetoelastic film. Such an absorbent structure enables the monitoring the status, e.g., wetness and/or at least one biological and/or chemical analyte, in an absorbent article. A change in status, such as wetness, may reflect an event, such as urination or a feces event. Also included are methods for detecting wetness and/or at least one biological and/or at least one chemical analyte, using the sensoring absorbent structure according to an embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A liquid flow meter (50), including a microcontroller (60) and associated algorithm, monitors urine flow through a cartridge trap (20). Measuring the duration of such flow and the number of times the urinal is used will determine, in accordance with preset criteria, when servicing or replacement is needed, and alerts a service person to that effect by a warning light (68) or other signal. Because urine has a high mineral content, it is electrically conductive, effective to complete circuits between closely spaced metal contacts (62a-62c, 64a-64c) coupled to the PROM, which allows the manner and existence of the urine to be detected. The liquid flow meter is installed in the cartridge trap by utilizing and placing a split ball stem (52) located at the base of the meter into a mounting hole (42) located in the center of the drain holes (36) on the cartridge cover (26).

Abstract: An absorbent fiber is constructed to include a hydrophobic exterior and a hydrophilic interior for use in various absorbent constructions as an absorbent, capture and entrain liquids and attendant odors. A moisture monitoring device can be included in the absorbent fiber to detect a designated moisture level absorbed by the absorbent fiber. The moisture monitoring device includes a sensing device for detecting moisture absorbed by the absorbent fiber; and an alert device for receiving a signal from the sensor device when the sensor device detects a specified moisture level in the absorbent fiber. When the signal is received, the alert device issues an audible sound or otherwise notifies the user.

Abstract: A leakage response system for an appliance includes a leakage sensor which is operative to change an electrical parameter upon contact by a conductive liquid, a controller circuit electrically coupled with the strip for generating an activation signal in response to contact of the strip by a conductive liquid and a response device coupled with the controller circuit and activated by the signal. The sensor includes a mat which is constructed of top and bottom outer layers of electrically conductive fabric separated by a central nonconductive fabric layer; and a pair of fusing layers fusing the top and bottom layers to the central nonconductive layer. The sensor may also include a pair of conductive pins for installation into a surface for detecting moisture hidden within the surface. The response device may include an audible alarm and/or a valve for shutting off the water flow in the appliance water supply line.

Abstract: A method of detecting a dry/wet state of a thermistor bead comprises the steps of: conducting current through the thermistor bead selectively between first and second current levels; measuring a difference in voltage across the thermistor bead in response to the first and second current levels; and detecting the dry/wet state of the thermistor bead based on the measured difference in voltage. In one embodiment, the first and second current levels conducted through the thermistor bead are both less than thirty milliamps. Apparatus for embodying this detection method is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a water monitoring system and a water monitoring method for a high voltage cable (CA) including a conductor (4) and a screen (2) surrounding the conductor. At least a first water sensing wire (11) extends in the screen (2) between the cable beginning (CB) and the cable end (CE) and at least a second wire (12) is connected with the first wire (11) at the cable end to form a loop. A first switching unit (3) is provided between the cable beginning (CB) and the measurement circuit (MC). A control unit (CU) controls the first switching unit (3) over a first predetermined time interval into a first switching state in which the water sensing wire (11) and the second wire (12) are connected to the screen potential. In a following second predetermined time interval the control unit (CU) controls the first switching unit (3) into a second switching state in which the water sensing wire (11) and the second wire (12) are disconnected from the screen potential.