Patent ID: 8262878
Filing Date: 2012-09-11
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A controlled activation sensor assembly for monitoring pH or other constituents, comprising: a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, said tubular member comprised of an outer tubular member and one or more inner tubular members, said outer tubular member co-linearly or coaxially enclosing one or more inner tubular members, said outer tubular member having a terminal end; a dry state wick material enclosed within a first inner tubular member, said dry state wick material including a dry matrix of hygroscopic and/or hydrophilic materials, said dry state wick material acting as a capillary tube that facilitates liquid flow; a dry state reference electrode, said dry state reference electrode comprising a silver wire terminally coated with a silver chloride coating, said dry state reference electrode enclosed in a proximal position within said dry state wick material and within said first inner tubular member, an expansion plug located proximal to said dry state wick and within said inner tubular member, said expansion plug designed to regulate the amount of liquid absorbed and control the electrolyte concentration; one or more sodium chloride rods that are positioned in close proximity to the reference wick; an antimony metal segment enclosed within said outer tubular member, said outer tubular member electrically isolates said antimony metal segment from said reference electrode; said tubular member, said dry state wick, said dry state reference electrode, and said antimony metal forming a non-active sensor; and said non-activated sensor designed to become activated upon exposing said distal end to a hydration solution whereby said hydration solution is transported proximally to become retained within a portion of said wick material.