Patent ID: 7053781

Claim:
An apparatus for incontinence detection and notification, comprising: a notification component for providing notice that an incontinent event has occurred; and a washable sensor, including a sensing pad for collecting and retaining fluid resulting from the incontinent event, said sensing pad including a first layer of a washable material for contacting the skin of a wearer, a second layer of washable soaker material for absorbing the fluid resulting from the incontinent event, and a third layer of fluid-resistant material joined to said first and second layers, said third layer preventing fluid from escaping from the sensing pad, and a circuit integrated within the second layer of said sensing pad having a first and a second electrode, a closed circuit being created between said electrodes by the fluid resulting from the incontinent event, causing an electronic signal to be communicated to the notification component; wherein said electrodes are constructed from a material having the ability to withstand harsh heat and chemical treatments, such that said sensor, including the sensing pad and integrated circuit, may be cleaned, sanitized, and thereafter reused.