Liquid level sensing system
A liquid level sensing system includes waveguides disposed in a liquid and distributed along a path with a gap between adjacent waveguides. A source introduces electromagnetic energy into the waveguides at a first end of the path. A portion of the electromagnetic energy exits the waveguides at a second end of the path. A detector measures the portion of the electromagnetic energy exiting the second end of the path.


Patent Abstract:
NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center has developed a unique prototype for measuring the liquid level in a tank, employing a novel process. The technology can operate in a wide range of environments, including high and low temperatures and pressures, and is simpler and less expensive than other optical sensing techniques. The instrument also provides far greater accuracy and faster results in cryogenic conditions than typical cryogenic liquid metering methods. It is ideal for cryogenic and non-cryogenic ground tank metering applications, and zero-gravity systems that include stratification or settling techniques.Benefits
Versatile: Operates at high and low temperatures and pressures, functions in corrosive environments, and provides highly accurate metering for both cryogenic and non-cryogenic liquids
applications
Aerospace - Rocket propulsion testing, engine fuel tanks, cryogenic tanks
Automotive - Liquid hydrogen fuel tanks, petroleum, gasoline, and liquid natural gas tanks
Foods and Pharmaceuticals - Contamination-free storage and transportation
Aviation - Jet engine fuel tanks
Reps:
Inventors:
Amanda G. Duffell
Valentin Korman
John T. Wiley
Patent Number:
US8695420Internal Laboratory Ref #:
MFS-TOPS-39Patent Status:
Patent Issue Date:
May 15, 2014Lab Representatives