US Patent 9714967 Electrostatic dust and debris sensor for an engine

The present disclosure is directed to an integrated electrostatic sensor for an engine. The sensor includes an outer housing having a body with a first end and a second end. The first end is configured for securing the sensor to the engine and includes a sensing face. The sensor also includes an electrode configured within the housing adjacent to the sensing face and an amplifier configured with the electrode. The electrode contains a plurality of electrons configured to move as charged particles flow past the sensing face. Thus, the amplifier is configured to detect a particulate level as a function of the electron movement. The electrostatic sensor also includes a circuit board configured within the housing and electrically coupled to the amplifier. As such, the circuit board is configured to send one or more signals to a controller of the engine indicative of the particulate level.