Patent ID: 6788072
Filing Date: 2004-09-07
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A method for detecting soot content in diesel engine oil, the method comprising:a) generating a first waveform at a first frequency and a first voltage level to produce a first standing wave having a first voltage null point, at least a portion of the first standing wave passing within a portion of the oil having a first state of soot content; b) generating a second waveform at a second frequency and a second voltage level to produce a second standing wave having a second voltage null point, at least a portion of the second standing wave passing within a portion of the oil having a second state of soot content; c) placing a signal associated with the second voltage null point at a detecting point; and d) determining the ratio of the difference between the second voltage level and the first voltage level over a voltage level associated with the second voltage null point, wherein the ratio is indicative of the second state of soot content.