Patent ID: 6640658
Filing Date: 2003-11-04
Classification: G01D

Abstract:
A sensor assembly, configured to be mounted to an external wall of a container for supporting a sensor to measure a predetermined parameter of a fluid located therein, the sensor assembly comprising:a housing configured to be securely positioned relative to the external wall of the container, the housing having a lower portion and an upper portion, and the housing defining a cavity with a first opening at the lower portion and a second opening at the upper portion; a sensor cartridge mounted for movement in the cavity, between an inserted position and a retracted position, the cartridge defining an elongated opening with an upper end for receiving the sensor probe and a lower end for exposing a sensing end of a sensor probe when in the inserted position; a gasket configured to contact both the lower portion of the sensor cartridge below the lower end of the elongated opening and a surface of the housing defining the cavity when the cartridge is in the retracted position, thereby providing a liquid-proof, pressure-resistant seal between the sensor cartridge and the housing at their respective lower portions; and a locking mechanism configured to secure the sensor cartridge in the retracted position, the locking mechanism including a locking pin mounted for movement in a recess of the housing adjacent to the sensor cartridge and configured to interface with the sensor cartridge to secure the sensor cartridge when in the retracted position, and a resilient member attached to the locking pin configured to urge the locking pin to engage the sensor cartridge.