Patent attributes
A capacitance probe monitors the distance between a blade tip and a fan, compressor or turbine case. The capacitance probe may be attached to a liner, and may travel with the liner as it radially expands due to thermal changes. The capacitance probe may include a circuit board sensor with a metallic plate, and one or more capacitors. The metallic plate may be encapsulated within an insulating material. A plurality of soft leads may be in electrical communication with the circuit board sensor, allowing a lower lead weight, reduced size and increased flexibility. The soft leads may also be embedded in the liner. In this way, the capacitance probe can record more accurate distance measurements and promote a gas turbine engine's continued and efficient operation.
