Fuel level measurement using in-tank measuring system
US10429228B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 13, 2013 |
| Grant date | Oct 1, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 29, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01F23/26
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus for measuring the level of fuel in a fuel tank is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an in-tank measuring system that provides an oscillating output signal generated, for example, by an oscillator such as a multivibrator, where the oscillating output signal has a frequency corresponding to the fuel level. The in-tank measuring system includes a capacitive fuel probe mounted within the fuel tank to contact the fuel. The fuel probe has a capacitance that is a function of the level of the fuel. The oscillator is configured for mounting within the fuel tank at a position in close proximity to the capacitive fuel probe. The oscillator circuit uses the capacitance of the fuel probe to generate the oscillating output signal. A communication path communicates the oscillating output signal from the clock circuit to a circuit exterior to the fuel tank.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.