Apparatus for controlling fuel transfers in a distributed fuel tank system
US5321945A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 18, 1993 |
| Grant date | Jun 21, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 18, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64C17/10
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates to a distributed fuel system, wherein a plurality of fuel tanks used for storing fuel are distributed in different locations. The fuel tanks are connected to each other via a manifold which permits fuel to flow therein. The distributed fuel system includes a plurality of control components interposed at predetermined points of the manifold to permit or restrict the flow of the fuel contained in the manifold in response to control signals. A method for distributing the fuel between the fuel tanks to achieve predetermined levels in each of the fuel tanks comprises the steps of determining the status and condition of the fuel system. The functions to be performed are then selected. Based on the system status and the functions to be performed, the configuration of the control elements is selected to perform the functions to be performed. The control signals are outputted to the control components to obtain the desired configuration of the control components for causing the fuel flow within the distributed fuel system to accomplish the desired functions, thereby yielding the desired fuel distribution.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.