Fuel filtration system and method

Abstract

The present application relates to fuel filtration systems and methods. A fuel filtration and analysis system includes a fuel pump in fluid communication with a fuel tank, a filtration system in fluid communication with the fuel pump. The filtration system is configured to filter fuel flowing through the filtration system. A burner is configured to receive a portion of the fuel after the fuel flows through the filtration system and ignite the portion of the fuel to produce exhaust gas, and a gas analyzer is in communication with the burner. The gas analyzer is configured to receive the exhaust gas and determine an amount of impurities in the exhaust gas.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications and priority claims

[0002] This application claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202141031250, filed on July 12, 2021, entitled "Fuel Filtration System and Method," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention generally relates to systems and methods for filtering and analyzing fuels. background

[0004] In an engine system, the performance of its components depends on the quality of the fuel burned within them. Generally, an engine system burning fuel with relatively few impurities (e.g., clean fuel) will perform better than the same engine system burning fuel with more impurities (e.g., dirty fuel). Furthermore, over time, when an engine system uses dirty fuel instead of clean fuel, its components may require earlier or more frequent maintenance, leading to increased costs for both the user and the engine system manufacturer. These costs can include the cost of parts not approved by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), labor costs, downtime costs, and warranty costs. To mitigate these issues, dirty fuel can be cleaned to remove impurities before being dispensed into vehicles, thus transforming it into clean fuel.

[0005] Overview

[0006] In one embodiment, the fuel filtration and analysis system includes a fuel pump in fluid communication with a fuel tank and a filtration system in fluid communication with the fuel pump. The filtration system is configured to filter fuel flowing through it. A burner is configured to receive a portion of the fuel after it has flowed through the filtration system and ignite that portion to produce exhaust gas, and a gas analyzer is in communication with the burner. The gas analyzer is configured to receive the exhaust gas and determine the amount of impurities in it.

[0007] In one embodiment, the filtration system includes:

[0008] A first filter, which is in fluid communication with the fuel pump and configured to remove first particles from the fuel flowing through the first filter; and

[0009] A second filter, which is in fluid communication with the first filter and is configured to remove second particles from the fuel flowing through the second filter.

[0010] In an embodiment, the first filter includes openings having a size in a range of 20 microns to 100 microns.

[0011] In an embodiment, the second filter includes openings having a size in a range of 5 microns to 20 microns.

[0012] In an embodiment, the fuel filtration and analysis system further includes a third filter in fluid communication with the first filter and positioned in parallel with the second filter, the third filter configured to remove the second particulate from the fuel flowing through the third filter.

[0013] In an embodiment, the fuel filtration and analysis system further includes a first sensor positioned between the second filter and the combustor, the first sensor configured to determine a pressure of the fuel downstream of the second filter.

[0014] In an embodiment, the fuel filtration and analysis system further includes a second sensor positioned between the first filter and the second filter, the second sensor configured to determine a pressure of the fuel upstream of the second filter.

[0015] In an embodiment, the gas analyzer is configured to determine an amount of sulfur dioxide in the exhaust gas.

[0016] In an embodiment, the fuel filtration and analysis system further includes a controller configured to determine whether the fuel is suitable for use in a vehicle based on the amount of impurities in the exhaust gas.

[0017] In an embodiment, the fuel filtration and analysis system further includes a controller configured to determine a pressure of the fuel across at least one filter of the filtration system.

[0018] In an embodiment, the fuel filtration and analysis system further includes a controller configured to determine at least one of a filtration strategy and a fuel strategy based on the received information.

[0019] In another embodiment, a method for determining fuel content includes filtering fuel through a filtration system in fluid communication with a fuel pump, combusting an amount of the filtered fuel through a combustor in fluid communication with the filtration system to produce an exhaust gas, and determining an impurity content of the exhaust gas through a gas analyzer in fluid communication with the combustor.

[0020] In another embodiment, the method further includes:

[0021] determining an upstream pressure and a downstream pressure associated with the filtration system.

[0022] In another implementation, the filtration system includes:

[0023] a first filter in fluid communication with the fuel pump and configured to remove first particulates from fuel flowing through the first filter; and

[0024] a second filter in fluid communication with the first filter and configured to remove second particulates from the fuel flowing through the second filter, wherein the upstream pressure is detected upstream of the second filter and the downstream pressure is detected downstream of the second filter.

[0025] In another implementation, the method further includes:

[0026] determining whether a pressure differential between the upstream pressure and the downstream pressure is greater than a threshold pressure; and

[0027] in response to the pressure differential being greater than the threshold pressure, providing a notification to install a new filter.

[0028] In another implementation, the threshold pressure is 30 kiloPascals.

[0029] In another implementation, the method further includes:

[0030] comparing the impurity content to one or more threshold levels; and

[0031] in response to the impurity content being higher than the one or more threshold levels, determining that the fuel is not suitable for use in a vehicle.

[0032] In another implementation, the method further includes:

[0033] comparing the impurity content to one or more threshold levels; and

[0034] in response to the impurity content being higher than the one or more threshold levels, disabling a fuel dispenser.

[0035] In another implementation, comparing the impurity content to the one or more threshold levels includes comparing a sulfur dioxide content to a sulfur dioxide threshold.

[0036] In another implementation, the method further includes:

[0037] determining a flow rate of the fuel; and

[0038] in response to determining that the flow rate is higher than a flow rate threshold, preventing fuel from flowing through a portion of the filtration system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a fuel filtration and analysis system coupled to a controller according to a particular implementation.

[0041] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary controller of the fuel filtration and analysis system of Figure 1

[0042] Figure 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of filtering and analyzing fuel according to a particular implementation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The following detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. The description is intended for purposes of illustration only and is not intended to limit the concepts in any way. The concepts described herein can be implemented in any number of ways, including as software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of hardware and software modules. It should be noted that many of the concepts described herein can be implemented as computer-readable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium and executed by a processing unit. Some examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include compact discs, Blu-ray discs, flash drives, and hard disks. In some examples, the non-transitory computer-readable medium can be encoded with one or more machine-readable instructions operable to program hardware to perform various aspects of the techniques. For example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium can store machine-readable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform various aspects of the techniques described herein.

[0044] In engine systems, the performance of components of the engine system depends on the quality of the fuel being combusted within the engine system. Generally, an engine system that combusts fuel with relatively few impurities (e.g., clean fuel) will perform better than the same engine system that combusts fuel with more impurities (e.g., dirty fuel). Additionally, over time, as the engine system uses dirty fuel instead of clean fuel, components of the engine system can need to be serviced earlier or more frequently, resulting in increased costs (e.g., part costs, labor costs, warranty costs, etc.) for both the user and the engine system manufacturer. To mitigate these issues, dirty fuel can be cleaned to remove impurities before the fuel is distributed into a vehicle, such that the dirty fuel is changed to clean fuel.

[0045] ​Clean fuels can be accomplished by filtering and / or chemically treating the fuel. In geographic areas that include facilities capable of testing filtered and / or chemically treated fuel, the cleanliness of the fuel can be tested shortly after filtering. However, in many instances, there is no ready facility to test filtered and / or chemically treated fuel to determine the cleanliness of the fuel on site. As one example, a mining facility can have multiple fuel tanks that store fuel to be dispensed to vehicles used on site. Over time, the fuel can become dirty due to a variety of particulate matter (e.g., dust, dirt, etc.), biofilm, water, etc. that can enter the fuel tanks. Because the mining facility can be remote from fuel testing facilities, it can take weeks or even months to test the fuel to determine whether the fuel is clean or dirty.

[0046] Embodiments herein relate to systems and methods of filtering and analyzing fuel on site to determine whether the fuel is clean or dirty prior to dispensing the fuel in a vehicle. Embodiments of the filter system described herein include a first filter in fluid communication with a fuel tank and a second filter in communication with the first filter, where each of the first filter and the second filter are configured to remove impurities from fuel stored in the fuel tank as the fuel is directed from the fuel tank and through each of the first filter and the second filter. After the fuel passes through the first filter and the second filter, a burner receives a portion of the fuel and the burner ignites the portion of the fuel to produce exhaust gas that is analyzed by a gas analyzer. The gas analyzer determines an amount of impurities within the exhaust gas, which is related to the cleanliness and / or adulteration of the fuel. If the amount of impurities is below a threshold level, the fuel is considered clean and can be dispensed into a vehicle, thereby reducing the likelihood of premature failure or maintenance.

[0047] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a fuel filtration and analysis system 100 according to particular embodiments. The fuel filtration and analysis system 100 is shown to include a fuel tank 102, a fuel pump 104, a first filter 106, a second filter 108, and a third filter 110. The fuel filtration and analysis system 100 is also shown to include a first sensor 112, a second sensor 114, a third sensor 116, a fourth sensor 118, a flow meter 120, a fuel dispenser 122, a burner 124, and an analyzer 126, and a controller 130.

[0048] The fuel tank 102 is configured to store fuel for use in a vehicle. Thus, the fuel tank 102 can be any shape, size, or material suitable for storing fuel (e.g., gasoline, diesel fuel, propane, natural gas, ethanol, etc.). In exemplary embodiments, the fuel tank 102 can be positioned in a remote location such that a vehicle at the remote location can use fuel stored in the fuel tank 102. For example, construction or mining projects often require heavy machinery and / or vehicles to be located at a construction or mining site. The heavy machinery and / or vehicles can be refueled at the fuel tank 102. In such environments, the fuel tank 102 is often large (e.g., similar in size to a shipping container) such that the fuel tank 102 can support refueling of the heavy machinery and / or vehicles for an extended duration before needing to be refilled. In many cases, the fuel tank 102 does not provide an air-tight seal around the fuel, allowing air, dirt, dust, water, and other various contaminants to come into contact with and mix with the fuel in the fuel tank 102.

[0049] The fuel pump 104 is in fluid communication with the fuel tank 102 and is configured to direct fuel out of the fuel tank 102 and toward the first filter 106. Thus, the fuel pump 104 can be any device or system capable of directing fuel from the fuel tank 102 in the manner described.

[0050] The first filter 106 is in fluid communication with the fuel pump 104 and is configured to filter fuel as the fuel flows through the first filter 106. In some embodiments, the first filter 106 includes pores or openings having at least one dimension of about 50 microns or greater for the purpose of removing particulates and other contaminants from the fuel. For example, the first filter 106 can be a filter cartridge including filter paper having pores or openings with a diameter of about 50 microns. In some embodiments, the first filter 106 can be a screen having openings with a diameter of 50 microns. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although a 50 micron dimension of the openings in the first filter 106 is mentioned herein, a variety of other opening sizes can be used. For example, the openings in the first filter 106 can include one dimension between about 20 microns and about 100 microns. Additionally, the shape of the individual pores or openings can also vary. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any type of filter that can achieve the desired filtering goal can be used, including, for example, spin-on filters and cartridge filters.

[0051] The second filter 108 is in fluid communication with the first filter 106 and is configured to filter the fuel as it flows through the second filter 108. In some embodiments, the second filter 108 includes pores or openings having at least one dimension of about 10 microns or greater for the purpose of removing particulates and other impurities from the fuel. For example, the second filter 108 can be a filter cartridge including filter paper having pores or openings with a diameter of about 10 microns. In some embodiments, the second filter 108 can be a screen having openings with a diameter of about 10 microns. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although about 10 microns is mentioned herein as a dimension of the openings in the second filter 108, a variety of other opening or pore sizes can be used. For example, the openings in the second filter 108 can include one dimension between about 5 microns and about 20 microns. Additionally, the shape of the individual pores or openings can also vary. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any type of filter that can achieve the desired filtering goal can be used, including, for example, spin-on filters and cartridge filters.

[0052] The third filter 110 is in fluid communication with the first filter 106 and is positioned in parallel with the second filter 108 such that a portion of the fuel flows through the second filter 108 and the remaining portion of the fuel flows through the third filter 110. In some embodiments, the third filter 110 includes pores or openings having at least one dimension of about 10 microns or greater for the purpose of removing particulates and other impurities from the fuel. For example, the third filter 110 can be a filter cartridge including filter paper having pores or openings with a diameter of about 10 microns. In some embodiments, the third filter 110 can be a screen having openings with a diameter of about 10 microns. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although about 10 microns is mentioned herein as a dimension of the openings in the third filter 110, a variety of other opening or pore sizes can be used. For example, the openings in the third filter 110 can include one dimension between about 5 microns and about 20 microns. Additionally, the shape of the individual pores or openings can also vary. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any type of filter that can achieve the desired filtering goal can be used, including, for example, spin-on filters and cartridge filters.

[0053] While in Figure 1Only the second filter 108 and the third filter 110 are shown positioned in parallel to receive fuel from the first filter 106, but one of skill in the art will appreciate that more or fewer filters can be positioned downstream of the first filter 106. In some embodiments, additional filters can be positioned in parallel with the second filter 108 and the third filter 110, and each filter can be associated with a valve that can allow or prevent flow through the associated filter. More or fewer downstream filters can be used based on the flow through the first filter 106. For example, if the fuel flow through the first filter 106 is slow enough, then only one downstream filter (e.g., the second filter 108) can be needed to maintain the flow of fuel through the system 100. In such a case, the valves associated with all filters other than the second filter 108 are positioned to prevent fuel from flowing through the associated filters. In another example, if the fuel flow through the first filter 106 is fast enough, then multiple downstream filters (e.g., the second filter 108, the third filter 110, and a fourth filter (not shown)) can be needed to maintain the flow of fuel through the system 100. In such a case, the valves associated with the second filter 108, the third filter 110, and the fourth filter are positioned to allow fuel to flow through the associated filters in order to maintain the flow of fuel through the system 100. In some embodiments, the filters (e.g., the first filter 106, the second filter 108, the third filter 110, the fourth filter, etc.) are part of a filtration system that is configured to filter fuel as the fuel flows through the filters.

[0054] In some embodiments, one or more sensors can be positioned upstream or downstream of the second filter 108 and / or the third filter 110. In an example arrangement, a first sensor 112 is positioned upstream of the second filter 108 and downstream of the first filter 106, a second sensor 114 is positioned downstream of the second filter 108, a third sensor 116 is positioned upstream of the third filter 110 and downstream of the first filter 106, and a fourth sensor 118 is positioned downstream of the third filter 110. Each of the first sensor 112, the second sensor 114, the third sensor 116, and the fourth sensor 118 (collectively referred to herein as “sensors 112-118”) is configured to detect a parameter associated with the fuel or the system 100 as the fuel flows within the system 100.

[0055] The first sensor, the second sensor 114, the third sensor 116, and the fourth sensor 118 can be configured to detect a pressure of the fuel as it flows through the system 100. For example, the first sensor 112 detects a first pressure of the fuel upstream of the second filter 108, and the second sensor 114 detects a second pressure of the fuel downstream of the second filter 108. The upstream pressure value and the downstream pressure value can be shared by a controller (e.g., the controller 130), and the controller will determine whether the second filter 108 needs to be replaced based on a comparison between the upstream pressure value and the downstream pressure value. For example, if the controller 130 determines that the difference between the upstream pressure and the downstream pressure is greater than 30 kiloPascals (KPa) (e.g., a threshold pressure), the controller 130 can provide a notification that the second filter 108 needs to be replaced. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the threshold pressure is related to aspects of the system 100, including but not limited to the type of filter, the number of filters, and the flow of fuel. Thus, the threshold pressure can be adjusted based on a combination of these aspects.

[0056] In some embodiments, only downstream sensors are used (e.g., only the second sensor 114 and the fourth sensor 118). In such embodiments, the controller 130 only evaluates the downstream pressure of the fuel, which can provide an indication of the degree of filter clogging (e.g., a lower pressure indicates a more clogged filter).

[0057] In some arrangements, determining whether a filter should be replaced is based on both pressure (e.g., the pressure drop across the filter) and time. For example, if the controller 130 determines that the pressure drop between the upstream pressure and the downstream pressure increases by 30 KPa in less than 200 hours, the controller 130 can provide a notification that the filter should be replaced. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of other values can be used to determine whether a filter must be replaced. For example, the threshold pressure can be 20 KPa, 40 KPa, or any other pressure that indicates that the filter is clogged and needs to be replaced. Further, the time during which the pressure increases to the threshold pressure can be 100 hours, 300 hours, or any other amount of time during which the pressure increases to the threshold pressure indicates that the filter should be replaced. The threshold pressure and the threshold time are related to aspects of the system 100, including but not limited to the type of filter, the number of filters, and the flow of fuel. Thus, the threshold pressure and / or the threshold time can be adjusted based on a combination of these aspects.

[0058] Flow meter 120 is in fluid communication with fuel dispenser 122 and with second filter 108 and third filter 110, and is configured to measure the volume of fuel flowing from second filter 108 and third filter 110 to fuel dispenser 122. In some arrangements, the number of filters used in parallel in system 100 depends on the flow rate of the fuel. For example, a faster flow rate will require more filters operating in parallel than a slower flow rate. In some embodiments, the number of filters operating in parallel is determined by controller 130. In some embodiments, flow meter 120 is in communication with both fuel dispenser 122 and combustor 124, such that the flow meter provides a first amount of fuel to combustor 124 and a second amount of fuel to fuel dispenser 122. In such embodiments, a valve (not shown) can be actuated (e.g., by controller 130) to selectively direct fuel to fuel dispenser 122 or combustor 124.

[0059] Fuel dispenser 122 is in fluid communication with the flow meter and is configured to dispense fuel for combustion. In some embodiments, fuel dispenser 122 is configured to dispense a first amount of fuel to combustor 124 and a second amount of fuel to a fuel tank. In some cases, fuel dispenser 122 is a conventional dispenser configured with a nozzle that is installed within a fuel tank of a vehicle. Fuel dispenser 122 can also be configured to dispense small amounts of fuel for testing purposes. In some embodiments, fuel dispenser 122 includes multiple dispenser portions that can be configured to fill containers having multiple sizes with fuel.

[0060] Combustor 124 is in fluid communication with fuel dispenser 122, and is configured to receive an amount of fuel from fuel dispenser 122 and ignite the fuel to produce exhaust gas. In some arrangements, combustor 124 includes a housing that defines an internal cavity into which an amount of fuel is dispensed from fuel dispenser 122. The housing can also define a conduit that allows air to flow therethrough into the internal cavity. Combustor 124 also includes an ignition device that is configured to cause a fuel / air mixture within the internal cavity to ignite in a combustion event to produce exhaust gas. The ignition device can be a spark plug or any other type of device configured to produce a spark and cause ignition.

[0061] The analyzer 126 is in fluid communication with the combustor 124 and is configured to analyze the exhaust gas and determine a chemical composition of the exhaust gas. In some embodiments, the analyzer 126 is a separate component from the combustor 124. In such embodiments, the analyzer 126 can be coupled with the combustor 124 via a conduit that directs the exhaust gas from the combustor 124 to the analyzer 126. The analyzer 126 can also be a part of the combustor 124 such that the combustor 124 and the analyzer 126 are integral components. In some arrangements, the analyzer 126 is configured to determine an amount of a chemical indicative of an impurity in the fuel. For example, the analyzer can be configured to determine an amount of sulfur dioxide present in the exhaust gas, and the amount of sulfur dioxide present in the exhaust gas is positively correlated to the amount of sulfur in the fuel. Sulfur has a negative effect on components of the engine (e.g., the higher the sulfur content of the fuel, the greater the likelihood that the engine system will fail or require earlier maintenance as compared to a situation with a lower sulfur content). In some embodiments, a sulfur dioxide content greater than ten parts per million (ppm) indicates that the sulfur content in the fuel is unacceptable (e.g., the fuel is considered dirty).

[0062] The analyzer 126 can also be configured to determine an amount of other chemical compositions related to fuel impurities. For example, the analyzer 126 can also be configured to determine an amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) or carbon dioxide gas to determine whether the fuel is clean or dirty.

[0063] The controller 130 is coupled to the system 100 and is configured to at least partially control the operation of the system 100. With reference to Figure 2 Examples of the controller 130 are further described. The controller 130 is structured to receive inputs (e.g., signals, information, data, etc.) from the system 100. Accordingly, the controller 130 is structured to at least partially control the system 100 and its components.

[0064] As shown in Figure 2 The controller 130 includes a processing circuit 210 having a processor 212 and a memory device 214, a control system 230 having an input circuit 232, control logic 234, an output circuit 236, and a communication interface 250, as shown in

[0065] In one configuration, the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 are embodied in a machine- or computer-readable medium that is executable by a processor, such as the processor 212, and stored in a memory device, such as the memory device 214. The machine- or computer-readable medium facilitates the execution of certain operations as described herein and among other things enables the reception and transmission of data. For example, the machine- or computer-readable medium can provide instructions (e.g., commands, etc.) to, for example, acquire data. In this regard, the machine- or computer-readable medium can include programmable logic that defines the frequency of acquisition of data (or transmission of data). The computer-readable medium can include code that can be written in any programming language including, but not limited to, Java or a similar programming language, and any conventional programmatic programming language, such as the "C" programming language or a similar programming language. The computer-readable program code can execute on one processor or multiple remote processors. In the latter case, the remote processors can be connected to one another through any type of network (e.g., a CAN bus, etc.).

[0066] In another configuration, the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 are embodied as hardware units, such as an electronic control unit. Thus, the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 can be embodied as one or more circuit components, including but not limited to processing circuitry, network interfaces, peripheral devices, input devices, output devices, sensors, etc. In some embodiments, the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 can take the form of one or more analog circuits, electronic circuits (e.g., integrated circuits (ICs), discrete circuits, system-on-a-chip (SOC) circuits, microcontrollers, etc.), telecommunication circuits, hybrid circuits, and any other type of“circuit.” In this regard, the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 can include any type of component for accomplishing or facilitating the implementation of the operations described herein. For example, the circuits as described herein can include one or more transistors, logic gates (e.g., NAND, AND, NOR, OR, XOR, NOT, XNOR, etc.), resistors, multiplexers, registers, capacitors, inductors, diodes, wires, etc. The input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 can also include programmable hardware devices, such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices, or similar programmable hardware devices. The input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 can include one or more memory devices for storing instructions executable by a processor of the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236. The one or more memory devices and the processor can have the same definitions as provided below with respect to the memory device 214 and the processor 212. In some hardware unit configurations, the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 can be geographically dispersed throughout separate locations in, for example, a vehicle. Alternatively or as shown, the input circuit 232, the control logic circuit 234, and the output circuit 236 can be embodied in or within a single unit / housing, which is shown as the controller 130.

[0067] In the illustrated example, the controller 130 includes processing circuitry 210 having a processor 212 and a memory device 214. The processing circuitry 210 can be structured or configured to execute or implement the instructions, commands, and / or control processes described herein with respect to the input circuitry 232, control logic circuitry 234, and output circuitry 236. The depicted configuration represents the input circuitry 232, control logic circuitry 234, and output circuitry 236 as machine-readable media or computer-readable media that can be stored by the memory device. However, as mentioned above, this illustration is not meant to be limiting as the present disclosure contemplates other embodiments in which the input circuitry 232, control logic circuitry 234, and output circuitry 236, or at least one of the input circuitry 232, control logic circuitry 234, and output circuitry 236, is configured as a hardware unit. All such combinations and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0068] The processor 212 can be a single-chip processor or a multi-chip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field- programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. Thus, the processor 212 can be a microprocessor, a different type of processor, or state machine. The processor 212 can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, the processor 212 can be two or more processors that can be shared by a plurality of circuits (e.g., the input circuitry 232, control logic circuitry 234, and output circuitry 236 can include or otherwise share the same processor, which in some example embodiments can execute instructions stored via different regions of memory or otherwise accessed). Alternatively or additionally, the processor can be structured to perform certain operations independently of, or otherwise perform certain operations in addition to, other co-processors. In other example embodiments, the processors can be coupled via a bus to enable independent, parallel, pipelined, or multi-threaded instruction execution. All such variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0069] The memory device 214 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) can include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. The memory device 214 can be coupled to the processor 212, such that the processor 212 can

[0070] The input circuit 232 is configured to receive data indicative of the operation of the system 100. For example, the input circuit 232 can be in communication with the sensors 112-118, the flow meter 120, the combustor 124, and the analyzer 126. The input circuit 232 can be configured to receive information from the sensors 112-118 indicative of the pressure of the fuel flowing through the second filter 108 and the third filter 110. The input circuit 232 can also be configured to receive information from the flow meter 120 regarding the flow of fuel through the system 100. Further, the input circuit 232 can be configured to receive information from the combustor 124 relating to successful combustion events, and from the analyzer 126 relating to the various chemical compositions of the exhaust gas resulting from the successful combustion events.

[0071] The control logic circuit 234 is configured to receive information about the system 100 from the input circuit 232, and determine a filtration and / or fuel strategy based on the information. For example, the control logic circuit 234 can determine the number of filters that should be operational to maintain the flow of fuel based on the flow of fuel. The control logic circuit 234 can also determine whether a filter (e.g., the second filter 108, the third filter 110, etc.) is clogged and should be replaced based on information from the sensors 112-118. The control logic circuit 234 can also determine whether the fuel flowing through the system 100 is clean or dirty based on information from the analyzer 126.

[0072] The output circuit 236 is configured to receive the filter and / or fuel strategy from the control logic circuit 234 and provide an output (e.g., an“output”) in the form of an actuation information to the system 100 via the communication interface 250. In some embodiments, the output circuit 236 receives the fuel pressure from the control logic circuit 234 and outputs a signal to the system 100 based on the fuel pressure. For example, if the fuel pressure exceeds a threshold pressure (e.g., 30 KPa), the output circuit 236 can send a signal to the system 100 such that the system 100 notifies the user (via, e.g., a graphical user interface) that the threshold pressure has been exceeded and that a new filter must be installed. The output circuit 236 can also send a signal to the system 100 that prevents further flow of fuel until the filter is replaced.

[0073] In some arrangements, the output circuit 236 is configured to receive the fuel flow from the control logic circuit 234 and output a signal to the system 100 to change the number of filters in use based on the fuel flow. For example, if the fuel flow through one or more filters is a bottleneck for the total fuel flow through the system 100, the output circuit 236 can send a signal to the system 100 to allow fuel to flow through additional filters. This can be accomplished, for example, by opening valves (not shown) associated with each filter to allow increased fuel flow to reduce or eliminate the bottleneck. If the fuel flow through one or more filters is faster than the total fuel flow through the system 100, the output circuit 236 can send a signal to the system 100 to prevent fuel from flowing through some filters to reduce the fuel flow. This can be accomplished, for example, by closing valves (not shown) associated with one or more filters to prevent flow through those filters.

[0074] The output circuit 236 can also be configured to receive an amount of a chemical component (e.g., an amount of sulfur dioxide) present in the exhaust gas and output a signal to the system 100 based on the amount of the chemical component. For example, if the amount of the chemical component is greater than a threshold (e.g., if the amount of sulfur dioxide in the exhaust gas is greater than 10 ppm), the output circuit 236 can send a signal to the system 100 such that the system 100 notifies the user (via, e.g., a graphical user interface) that the fuel is dirty and should not be dispensed into the vehicle. The output circuit 236 can also send a signal to the system 100 such that the system 100 prevents dirty fuel from being dispensed into the vehicle, thereby preventing complications caused by using dirty fuel in the vehicle. If the amount of the chemical component is less than a threshold (e.g., if the amount of sulfur dioxide in the exhaust gas is less than 10 ppm), the output circuit 236 can send a signal to the system 100 such that the system 100 notifies the user that the fuel is clean and can be dispensed into the vehicle.

[0075] Figure 3is a flowchart illustrating a method 300 of filtering and analyzing fuel, according to certain embodiments. The method 300 can be implemented, at least in part, by the controller 130, such that reference is made to the controller 130 to help explain the method 300.

[0076] At 302, fuel is maintained in a fuel tank. For example, in a remote location such as a mining site or a large construction site, fuel for a variety of vehicles used in mining and / or construction can be stored on-site in a large fuel tank. As described above, contaminants (e.g., particulates, dust, water, etc.) can enter the fuel tank and then be distributed to the vehicles, which can have a deleterious effect on the operation of the engines of the vehicles.

[0077] At 304, the fuel is filtered with a first filter. For example, before the fuel is distributed to the vehicles, the fuel is directed through a first filter (e.g., the first filter 106) to remove contaminants of a first size. In some embodiments, the first filter 106 can also be configured to remove excess water from the fuel.

[0078] At 306, the fuel is filtered with a second filter. For example, after passing through the first filter 106, the fuel is directed through a second filter (e.g., the second filter 108) to remove contaminants of a second size that is smaller than the first size.

[0079] At 308, a determination is made of the pressure of the fuel across the second filter. For example, after the fuel passes through the second filter 108, the pressure (e.g., the downstream pressure) of the fuel can be detected by a sensor (e.g., the second sensor 114). In some embodiments, the pressure of the fuel is detected by determining the pressure differential between the upstream pressure detected by an upstream sensor (e.g., the first sensor 112) and the downstream pressure detected by a downstream sensor. In some cases, the pressure can be determined directly by the sensor and provided to the controller 130. The pressure can also be determined by the controller 130 after the sensor provides data indicative of the pressure. In some embodiments, the pressure of the fuel across any combination of filters of the filtration system can be determined.

[0080] At 310, a determination is made of whether the pressure is less than a threshold value. For example, the controller 130 compares the data received from the sensor (e.g., the pressure value or data indicative of the pressure value) to a threshold pressure value. In some cases, the threshold pressure value is 30 KPa. If the controller 130 determines that the pressure of the fuel is greater than the threshold, the controller 130 determines that the second filter 108 must be replaced. The controller 130 then provides a communication to the user to notify the user that the second filter 108 must be replaced, which occurs at 312.

[0081] If the controller determines that the fuel pressure is less than the threshold, an amount of fuel is combusted at 314. For example, a small amount of fuel is dispensed into the combustor 124 and ignited to cause a combustion event and produce exhaust gas.

[0082] At 316, the impurity content of the exhaust gas is determined. For example, the exhaust gas is directed from the combustor 124 to the analyzer 126, and the analyzer 126 determines the chemical composition of the exhaust gas. This determination includes determining impurities in the exhaust gas that indicate whether the fuel from which the exhaust gas was produced is clean or dirty. For example, the determination can include determining the amount of sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and / or nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas.

[0083] At 318, the determination regarding the impurity content is made. For example, the analyzer 126 provides data regarding the chemical composition of the exhaust gas to the controller 130, and the controller 130 compares the various chemical levels to one or more threshold levels. For example, the controller 130 receives a value for the sulfur dioxide content present in the exhaust gas, and compares the value to a threshold level for sulfur dioxide (e.g., 10 ppm).

[0084] If the controller 130 determines that the sulfur dioxide content in the exhaust gas is greater than the threshold level, at 320, the controller 130 determines that the fuel is not suitable for use in the vehicle (e.g., the fuel is dirty). To prevent the fuel from being used in the vehicle, the controller 130 can notify a user that the fuel is dirty and must be replaced or remediated with additional mitigation efforts before being dispensed into the vehicle. The controller 130 can also disable the fuel dispenser 122 (in combination with or independent of notifying the user) to prevent fuel from being dispensed into the vehicle until the fuel has been replaced or additional mitigation efforts have begun.

[0085] If the controller determines that the sulfur dioxide content in the exhaust gas is below the threshold level, at 322, the controller 130 determines that the fuel is suitable for use in the vehicle (e.g., the fuel is clean). The controller 130 can notify a user that the fuel is clean and allow the fuel to be dispensed into the vehicle.

[0086] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what can be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that can be specific to particular embodiments. Certain features that are described in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination with each other. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented on other embodiments, either alone or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features can be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination can be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0087] As utilized herein, the terms "about" and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It is to be understood that such terms are intended to allow for a description of certain features that can be present in some embodiments, but not necessarily in others. Thus, such terms are used merely to provide illustrative support for a feature that can or can not be present in some or all embodiments. The term "comprising" (and related terms such as "comprise" or "comprises" or "having" or "including") should not be interpreted as being restricted to members

[0088] As used herein, the terms "coupled," "connected," and similar terms, mean a direct or indirect connection, that is, with or without wiring or cable, or with or without a direct mechanical or magnetic connection, as appropriate or desired. Such connection can be permanent, for example, permanent in nature or releasable, for example, removable or releasable. Such connection can be achieved with the two components or the two components and any additional intervening components being integrally formed as a single unit with one another, the two components, or the two components and any additional intervening components being attached to one another.

[0089] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the systems shown in the various example embodiments is illustrative only and does not restrict the scope of the application as there are many alternative configurations not depicted. Any change to the order of operations and / or addition of in-between illustrative embodiments, are therefore, also contemplated. Any addition or subtraction of incremental functionality from the described hardware and / or software elements, are also contemplated. It should be appreciated that some features can not be necessary for the implementation of the application as claimed. Embodiments of the application can be expected to include, but are not limited to, such features where, therefore, no limitation of the scope of the application by such features is intended by virtue of that which is described. When the language "part" is used, the item can include a portion and / or the entire item, unless specifically stated to the contrary.

[0090] Furthermore, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, in a list of elements, the phrase "one or more of the elements" means one, some, or all of the elements. Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood to allow for meaning that the item, term, etc. can be X, Y, Z, X and Y, X and Z, Y and Z, or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive language is generally intended to mean any of the possible combinations of the items, terms, etc. unless otherwise specifically indicated.

[0091] While several embodiments have been described in detail in the disclosure, those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the present disclosure, will readily appreciate numerous modifications (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, elements shown as integrally formed can be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements can be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any method processes can be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions can also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the various example embodiments without departing from the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A fuel filtration and analysis system, the system comprising: a fuel pump in fluid communication with a fuel tank for storing fuel to be filtered in a remote location; a filtration system in fluid communication with the fuel pump, the filtration system configured to filter fuel flowing through the filtration system; a flow meter in communication with the filtration system receiving filtered fuel from the filtration system; a burner configured to receive a first portion of the fuel from the flow meter and ignite the first portion of the filtered fuel to produce exhaust gas; a dispenser configured to receive a second portion of the filtered fuel from the flow meter and provide a first amount of the second portion of the filtered fuel to the burner and a second amount of the second portion of the filtered fuel to a fuel tank of a heavy machinery and / or vehicle; and a gas analyzer in communication with the burner, the gas analyzer configured to receive the exhaust gas and determine an amount of impurities in the exhaust gas.

2. The fuel filtration and analysis system of claim 1, wherein the filtration system comprises: a first filter in fluid communication with the fuel pump and configured to remove first particulates from fuel flowing through the first filter; and a second filter in fluid communication with the first filter and configured to remove second particulates from the fuel flowing through the second filter.

3. The fuel filtration and analysis system of claim 2, wherein the first filter comprises openings having a size in a range of 20 microns to 100 microns.

4. The fuel filtration and analysis system of claim 2, wherein the second filter comprises openings having a size in a range of 5 microns to 20 microns.

5. The fuel filtration and analysis system of claim 2, wherein the filtration system further comprises a third filter in fluid communication with the first filter and positioned in parallel with the second filter, the third filter configured to remove the second particulates from the fuel flowing through the third filter.

6. The fuel filtration and analysis system of any one of claims 2-5, further comprising a first sensor positioned between the second filter and the burner, the first sensor configured to determine a pressure of the fuel downstream of the second filter.

7. The fuel filtration and analysis system of claim 6, further comprising a second sensor positioned between the first filter and the second filter, the second sensor configured to determine a pressure of the fuel upstream of the second filter.

8. The fuel filtration and analysis system of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the gas analyzer is configured to determine an amount of sulfur dioxide in the exhaust gas.

9. The fuel filtration and analysis system of any one of claims 1-5, further comprising a controller configured to determine whether the fuel is suitable for use in a vehicle based on the amount of impurities in the exhaust gas. ​ ​ 10. The fuel filtration and analysis system of any of claims 1-5, further comprising a controller configured to determine a pressure of the fuel across at least one filter of the filtration system.

11. The fuel filtration and analysis system of any of claims 1-5, further comprising a controller configured to determine at least one of a filtration strategy and a fuel strategy based on the received information.

12. A method for determining fuel content, the method comprising: filtering fuel from a fuel tank for storing fuel to be filtered in a remote location through a filtration system in fluid communication with a fuel pump; providing a first portion of the filtered fuel to a burner and a second portion of the filtered fuel to a dispenser through a flow meter in fluid communication with the filtration system; providing a first amount of the second portion of the filtered fuel to the burner and a second amount of the second portion of the filtered fuel to a fuel tank of a heavy machinery and / or vehicle through the dispenser; burning the first portion of the filtered fuel through the burner in fluid communication with the flow meter to produce exhaust gas; and determining an impurity content of the exhaust gas through a gas analyzer in fluid communication with the burner.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: determining an upstream pressure and a downstream pressure associated with the filtration system.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the filtration system comprises: a first filter in fluid communication with the fuel pump and configured to remove first particulates from fuel flowing through the first filter; and a second filter in fluid communication with the first filter and configured to remove second particulates from the fuel flowing through the second filter, wherein the upstream pressure is detected upstream of the second filter and the downstream pressure is detected downstream of the second filter.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising: determining whether a pressure differential between the upstream pressure and the downstream pressure is greater than a threshold pressure; and in response to the pressure differential being greater than the threshold pressure, providing a notification to install a new filter.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the threshold pressure is 30 kiloPascals.

17. The method of any of claims 12-16, further comprising: comparing the impurity content to one or more threshold levels; and in response to the impurity content being higher than the one or more threshold levels, determining that the fuel is not suitable for use in a vehicle.

18. The method of any of claims 12-16, further comprising: comparing the impurity content to one or more threshold levels; and in response to the impurity content being higher than the one or more threshold levels, disabling the dispenser.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein comparing the impurity content to the one or more threshold levels comprises comparing a sulfur dioxide content to a sulfur dioxide threshold. ​ ​ ​ ​ 20. The method of any of claims 12-16 and 19, further comprising: determining a flow rate of the fuel; and in response to determining that the flow rate is above a flow rate threshold, preventing fuel from flowing through a portion of the filtration system.

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