Fluid detection system and method having a coaxial cable with solid,

Abstract

A fluid detection system includes a cable which is capable of being dried easily after coming into contact with the fluid being detected and displays a measurable change in characteristic impedance immediately upon contact with the fluid. The cable comprises an inner conductor and a cylindrical outer conductor disposed in a substantially parallel and coaxial relationship with each other with a dielectric detection layer coaxially disposed between the inner and outer conductors. The outer conductor is of an open braided construction which permits easy passage therethrough of the fluid to be detected. The detection layer comprises a pair of solid dielectric elements stranded around the inner conductor in a double helical configuration and defining an air gap between the two conductors which is adapted to retain the fluid so as to measurably change the characteristic impedance of the cable. A coating of dielectric material is provided around the solid inner conductor, the thickness of which can be controlled to adjust the change in characteristic impedance resulting from the presence of fluid within the dielectric layer. The improved cable construction allows the dielectric layer to be dried quickly even after the cable has been immersed in the fluid so that successive fluid detection measurements may be made without delay.