Integrated Fuel Tank Pressure and Level Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel tank pressure transducers (FTPT) positioned external to the fuel tank experience noise issues due to thermal gradients, exposure to external conditions, and increased response time delays, leading to inaccurate pressure readings and potential fuel tank mismanagement during refueling.
Innovation Solution
An integrated system within the fuel tank featuring a level sensor with a pivotable float arm and a pressure sensor directly coupled to the floating body, where the pressure sensor is positioned inside the tank, reducing noise and response time delays by eliminating external exposure and transport delays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the FTPT is positioned external to the fuel tank downstream in the evaporative emissions system, then the sensor can perform leak diagnostic and vapor detection, but the signal to noise ratio is degraded resulting in distorted pressure readings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fuel tank pressure transducer with the fuel level indicator assembly, integrating both sensors into a single unit positioned inside the fuel tank. This merging eliminates the need for separate external FTPT positioning while improving measurement precision by placing the pressure sensor directly in the fuel tank environment where it can accurately detect pressure changes without external noise interference.
2Ease of repair
If the FTPT is positioned external to the fuel tank, then the sensor can be accessed for maintenance, but the sensor is exposed to external conditions such as dirt or underbody rust leading to sensor degradation
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the FTPT with the fuel level indicator assembly that is already positioned inside the fuel tank, the sensor is protected from external conditions such as dirt and rust. The fuel tank environment provides a controlled atmosphere that prevents sensor degradation while maintaining reliability. The integrated design allows the sensor to be accessed through the existing fuel level indicator assembly maintenance procedures.
3Ease of manufacture
If the FTPT is positioned external to the fuel tank, then the sensor installation is simplified, but the response time is reduced due to transport delay in vapor pressure changes
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the FTPT with the fuel level indicator assembly positions the pressure sensor directly inside the fuel tank, eliminating transport delays associated with external positioning. The sensor is now in direct contact with the fuel vapor environment, enabling immediate detection of pressure changes. This integrated approach maintains ease of manufacture by utilizing the existing fuel level indicator assembly structure and installation procedures.
4Volume of stationary object
If a single sensor is used to measure both fuel level and fuel tank pressure, then packaging space is reduced, but both fuel pressure and fuel level output are lost if a mechanical error occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the FTPT and fuel level sensor into a single assembly, reducing packaging space by combining both sensors in one unit positioned inside the fuel tank. The integrated design maintains both sensing functions simultaneously, allowing the system to monitor both pressure and fuel level through the same physical location without requiring separate sensor installations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances the accuracy and speed of pressure readings, reduces sensor degradation, and simplifies packaging, enabling more efficient engine control based on precise fuel level and pressure data.
Implementation Method 1
a level sensor positioned inside the fuel tank and including a float arm and a floating body coupled to a first end of the float arm
Implementation Method 2
a pressure sensor integrated with the floating body
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for the integration of a fuel level sensor and a fuel pressure sensor in a fuel tank within a fuel system. In one example, an integrated fuel pressure and fuel level sensor for a fuel tank may include a float arm of the fuel sensor coupled to a floating body and a pressure sensor (e.g., a fuel tank pressure transducer) coupled to the floating body, the integrated fuel pressure and fuel level sensor adapted to simultaneously measure fuel level and fuel vapor pressure of the fuel tank.