Importance

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Abstract

The method and system for measuring a fluid level in a container according to the present invention allow measuring fluid level in confined volumes where, for example, there is no sufficient space to locate the ultrasonic transducer, where the fluid level constantly changes, such as in a vehicle gas tank, where the properties of the fluid or geometry of the tank changes with the environmental conditions, or where a high precision is required. The method composes i) emitting an ultrasound beam from a source along an ultrasound beam path generally oriented towards the bottom of the container, ii) receiving ultrasound echo values indicative of changes of environment along the ultrasound beam path; and iii) using the echo values to determine distance from the source of the changes of environment along the ultrasound beam path; whereby, a fluid level in the container is determined by associating at least one of said echo values to a fluid interface. A waveguide in the form of a pipe may be used in defining the ultrasound beam path and reduced clutter. A fixed target along the ultrasound beam path allows continuous calibration of the system to cope for environment changes in the container and for changes of properties of the fluid. A measurement window can further be used to minimize false reading and to cope with environment changes.

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First Claim