Aircraft Tank Level Sensing via Remote Connector Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft oil reservoirs require accessible positioning for level checks, limiting their placement flexibility and necessitating power availability for monitoring.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft tank with an integrated electrical level sensor and remote connector system, allowing level monitoring via a cable loop circuit independent of the aircraft's power supply, enabling access from a distance and during propulsion system shutdown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the tank is positioned in an inaccessible location, then the aircraft design flexibility is improved, but the ease of operation for level monitoring deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection method (requiring physical access to the tank) with an electrical sensing system. The level sensor electrically detects liquid level and transmits signals remotely, eliminating the need for operator access to the tank location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement system between the liquid and the operator. The level sensor acts as an intermediary that converts liquid level information into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the operator without requiring direct access to the liquid.
2Measurement precision
If the level sensor is connected to the aircraft power supply, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation during shutdown deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the power supply configuration dynamic and adaptable. The level sensor can operate in two modes: powered by the aircraft electrical system during operation, or by its own battery during shutdown, allowing the system to adapt to different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The level sensor is equipped with an autonomous power source (battery) that allows it to independently monitor liquid levels without relying on the aircraft's power supply. This self-service capability ensures continuous monitoring regardless of aircraft operational state.
3Ease of operation
If a remote connector is used for level monitoring, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable bundle serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transmits both power and level signals through a single connection point. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate connections needed and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the power supply connection and the level signal transmission into a single integrated cable assembly. By merging these two functions into one physical connection, the system reduces complexity at the connection point while maintaining remote accessibility.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an aircraft comprising at least one tank (40), at least one electrical level sensor (42) positioned in the tank (40) and configured to generate a level signal (NS) based on the liquid level in the tank (40), at least one first connector (44) located away from the tank (40), and at least one link (46) configured to transmit the level signal (NS) generated by the level sensor (42) and electrical power to supply the level sensor (42), said link (46) connecting the first connector (44) and the level sensor (42). This solution allows for monitoring the fill level of a tank (40) that is difficult to access. The invention also relates to a device (48) for monitoring the liquid level of such a tank by connecting to the first connector (44).