Patent ID: 6467334
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: H01M,Y02E,Y10S

Abstract:
A method for quickly rendering a MOS gas sensor operational and which has a sensor element for sensing a target gas, and a heater configured to heat the sensor element when a voltage is applied thereto, the heater having an operating temperature which is selectively maintained by applying a first voltage thereto, and wherein the heater has a maximum recommended temperature which is selectively maintained by applying a second voltage thereto, the maximum recommended temperature being higher than the operating temperature, and the second voltage being higher than the first voltage, the method comprising:providing a third voltage to the heater, which is greater than the second voltage for a predetermined amount of time which is selected to increase the temperature to, but not above, the maximum recommended temperature in a shorter time period than if the second voltage is applied and maintained; causing the heater to cool in a shorter time period than if the first voltage is applied; and providing the first voltage after causing the heater to cool.