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Abstract

An oxygen sensing device is proposed which has a unique sensing element. The sensing element is substantially flat and comprises a solid electrolyte material, preferably yttria stabilized zirconia. The sensing element has a measuring electrode which contacts the external gas to be measured and a reference electrode which contacts a known concentration of gas. A positive resistance heater element may also be provided on the solid electrolyte body of the sensing element. A unique feature of the flat sensing element is that the sides of the solid electrolyte body converge at an apex located between the two ends of the body, so that the width of the body is greatest at the apex and tapers from the apex toward the two ends. The tapers facilitate secure and rigid retention of the sensing element within a housing. The sensing element is fixtured within the housing by packing the sensing element in a pressure media between two bushings located on either side of the apex, and crimping the two bushings. Fixturing the solid electrolyte body within the housing in this manner advantageously results in the crimping force being distributed over the surface of the ceramic sensing element and the ceramic sensing element being held in compression.

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First Claim