Abstract: A material level detection sensor (10) having a continuous ultrasonic sensor (12) and a capacitive proximity sensor (13). The capacitive proximity sensor detects the material only when the material is at or within the dead zone (15) of the ultrasonic sensor, at which point it switches the ultrasonic sensor off. The ultrasonic sensor transmits a level detection output signal until it is turned off by the capacitive proximity sensor. The capacitive proximity sensor transmits a level detection output signal only when it detects the material, and it will switch the ultrasonic sensor on when it does not detect the material. The material level detection sensor transmits only a single level detection output signal at any given time, providing an accurate and reliable estimate of material level. The device is particularly useful for measuring inventory and consumption of particulate solids and powders in bins or silos (11).

Abstract: A material level detection sensor (10) having a continuous ultrasonic sensor (12) and a capacitive proximity sensor (13). The capacitive proximity sensor detects the material only when the material is at or within the dead zone (15) of the ultrasonic sensor, at which point it switches the ultrasonic sensor off. The ultrasonic sensor transmits a level detection output signal until it is turned off by the capacitive proximity sensor. The capacitive proximity sensor transmits a level detection output signal only when it detects the material, and it will switch the ultrasonic sensor on when it does not detect the material. The material level detection sensor transmits only a single level detection output signal at any given time, providing an accurate and reliable estimate of material level. The device is particularly useful for measuring inventory and consumption of particulate solids and powders in bins or silos (11).