초록 ▼

An apparatus and method of for measuring fluid levels in a fluid tank (30) utilizing a no moving parts fluid level sensor (20). The apparatus comprises a hollow sensing tube (24) sealed to a pressure sensor (22). The pressure sensor (22) measures air column pressure as a function of hydrostatic pres

An apparatus and method of for measuring fluid levels in a fluid tank (30) utilizing a no moving parts fluid level sensor (20). The apparatus comprises a hollow sensing tube (24) sealed to a pressure sensor (22). The pressure sensor (22) measures air column pressure as a function of hydrostatic pressure within the fluid tanks (30). By modifying the design of the hollow sensing tube (24) to incorporate at least 30% of the volume at its bottom end, the accuracy of the fluid level measurements may be increased by decreasing the meniscus level (34) deviation in the hollow sensing tube (24). Further, by adding a flexible diaphragm (62) to the bottom end that does not allow fluid to enter the hollow sensing tube (24), the accuracy of the fluid level measurements may be further increased by eliminating the meniscus level (34) altogether. Also, design modifications may be made to the hollow sensing tube (24) that ensures that the bottom end of the hollow sensing tube (24) is located at the bottom 30A of the fluid tank (30), or that ensures that fluid slosh effect is dampened, or ensures that the hollow sensing tube (24) is located in the center of the fluid tank (30).

대표청구항 ▼

1. A no moving parts fluid level sensor for use in fluid tanks, the sensor comprising:a pressure sensor for measuring air column pressure; and a hollow sensing tube having a top end and a bottom end and a first volume, wherein said top end is sealed to said pressure sensor, wherein said bottom end h

1. A no moving parts fluid level sensor for use in fluid tanks, the sensor comprising:a pressure sensor for measuring air column pressure; and a hollow sensing tube having a top end and a bottom end and a first volume, wherein said top end is sealed to said pressure sensor, wherein said bottom end having an opening and a second volume; wherein said second volume comprises at least 30% of said first volume and wherein said hollow sensing tube has a middle section between said top end and said bottom end, said middle section having a u-shaped bend.