Fuel Tank Leak Detection Using Mass-Based Control Tube

The patent divides the large tank into multiple measurement zones by strategically positioning several probe assemblies at different locations within the tank. Each probe measures fuel mass in its local zone, and the controller aggregates these segmented measurements to determine the total fuel mass. This segmentation allows precise local measurements that collectively provide accurate overall measurement even in large tank volumes.

The patent introduces probe assemblies as intermediary measurement devices that interface between the fuel and the measurement system. These probes use float mechanisms and magnetic coupling to indirectly measure fuel mass without direct contact, thereby achieving high precision measurements while accommodating large tank volumes and varying fuel levels.

The patent implements continuous feedback measurement by constantly monitoring fuel mass through the probe assemblies and comparing it against expected consumption rates. The controller processes real-time mass data and provides feedback alerts when deviations indicate potential leaks. This continuous feedback mechanism enables reliable detection of small or slow leaks that would escape intermittent detection methods.

The patent replaces traditional mechanical level sensors and vacuum box testing systems with a mass-based measurement system using probes that measure fuel mass directly. This substitution of measurement methodology provides superior accuracy for detecting small mass changes corresponding to slow leaks, overcoming the limitations of mechanical systems that rely on level changes or require empty tanks.

The patent replaces level-based measurement systems with mass-based measurement using probe assemblies. The probes measure fuel mass directly through float mechanisms and magnetic coupling, independent of tank geometry or fuel level changes. This substitution resolves the problem where large volume changes in large tanks produce negligible level changes that level sensors cannot reliably detect.

The patent changes the measurement parameter from fluid level (length) to fuel mass (mass). By measuring mass instead of level, the system becomes insensitive to tank shape, size, and orientation variations. This parameter change enables reliable detection of small mass losses due to leaks regardless of the tank's large volume or irregular geometry.