Gustav Wetzel

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Gustav Wetzel

Introduction

Gustav Wetzel is a notable inventor based in Lorrach, Germany. He has made significant contributions to the field of capacitive sensing technology, holding a total of 6 patents. His work has advanced the functionality and reliability of capacitive switches and level limit switches.

Latest Patents

Wetzel's latest patents include a capacitive switch actuated by changes in a sensor capacitance. This invention features a capacitive probe with a sensor electrode and a guard electrode. The sensor electrode connects to an oscillator formed by a feedback system of two operational amplifiers. One amplifier is configured as a differential amplifier, while the other acts as a voltage follower. The probe electrode connects to the inverting input of the differential amplifier, with a capacitor in the feedback circuit that determines the AC gain. The output voltage of the differential amplifier is applied to the non-inverting input of the voltage follower, which is also connected to the differential amplifier's non-inverting input. This design allows the start and stop of oscillation to be determined by variations in the capacitance of the sensor electrode, ensuring that the guard electrode maintains the same AC potential as the sensor electrode.

Another significant patent is the method of setting the switching point of a capacitive level limit switch. This switch monitors the level of material in a container using a capacitive probe positioned at the desired height. The capacitance of the probe is compared to a threshold value to determine if it is covered by material. The method involves storing the capacitance of the probe as a first reference value and calculating a provisional second reference value. The threshold value is then calculated to lie between these two reference values. If the measured capacitance deviates from the second reference value, it is stored as a new second reference value, allowing for continuous adjustment of the threshold.

Career Highlights

Wetzel has worked with prominent companies such as Endress+Hauser GmbH & Co. and Endress U. Hauser GmbH U. Co. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in capacitive technology and innovation.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Wetzel has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Werner Thoren and Frank Seibert. These partnerships have likely fostered an environment of creativity and innovation, leading to the development of his patents.

Conclusion