Today's Message Index:
----------------------
1. 12:15 AM - Pitot static (Richard Iddon)
2. 12:29 AM - Re: Pitot static (Pete Lawless)
3. 02:53 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Kingsley Hurst)
4. 04:44 AM - Tri-Gear Nose Wheel Fork! (robertpeterfrost)
5. 07:03 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Andrew Sarangan)
6. 07:37 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Peter Zutrauen)
7. 08:07 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Nigel Graham)
8. 08:13 AM - Re: Pitot static (Richard Iddon)
9. 08:37 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Fred Klein)
10. 08:40 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Peter Zutrauen)
11. 09:25 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Peter Zutrauen)
12. 09:39 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (William Daniell)
13. 10:17 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Andrew Sarangan)
14. 11:07 AM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Peter Zutrauen)
15. 01:18 PM - Re: New cockpit panel (Roland)
16. 03:25 PM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Tony Renshaw)
17. 03:48 PM - Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator (Kingsley Hurst)
Message 1
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I had an interesting experience yesterday when attempting a permit test flight.
Had my plane at home for a 50 hour check and its annual inspection. Trailered
it down to the field for test flight but on the first take off run noticed that
the ASI was stuck on zero. Aborted the run and checked the pitot. All looked
Ok. gentle blowing into the pitot made the ASI twitch. Tried a rubber pipe on
it and rolled it up to produce pressure. ASI responded OK and held the reading.
Attempted a second run with same result. Still no air speed indication. On
further examination I noticed hat the plastic tip rom the static port was missing.
Obviously the static pressure was the same as the pitot hence a zero ASI
reading. As an emergency temporary fix I disconnected the static pipe at a connection
inside the cockpit which then gave me a satisfactory reading and I was
able to do the test flight OK. Comparing airspeed to GPS it seemed fairly accurate.
I guess somewhere along the line I must have caught the plastic tip and
broken it off. It would seem to be a vulnerable arrangement and wondered if
I could get a more robust replacement or locate a static port somewhere else to
avoid a repetition?
Richard Iddon.
G-RIXS
Message 2
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| Subject: | Re: Pitot static |
Hi Richard
Been there done exactly the same thing! Drill out the remains of the
plastic plug. Drill a small hole right through the metal about half an
inch back from the end of the static pipe and plug the end. Works a
treat, no noticeable difference on indications and you can't knock the
end off again.
Regards
Pete
On 17/06/14 08:01, Richard Iddon wrote:
>
> I had an interesting experience yesterday when attempting a permit test flight.
Had my plane at home for a 50 hour check and its annual inspection. Trailered
it down to the field for test flight but on the first take off run noticed
that the ASI was stuck on zero. Aborted the run and checked the pitot. All looked
Ok. gentle blowing into the pitot made the ASI twitch. Tried a rubber pipe
on it and rolled it up to produce pressure. ASI responded OK and held the reading.
Attempted a second run with same result. Still no air speed indication.
On further examination I noticed hat the plastic tip rom the static port was missing.
Obviously the static pressure was the same as the pitot hence a zero ASI
reading. As an emergency temporary fix I disconnected the static pipe at a
connection inside the cockpit which then gave me a satisfactory reading and I
was able to do the test flight OK. Comparing airspeed to GPS it seemed fairly
accurate. I guess somewhere along the line I must have!
> caught the plastic tip and broken it off. It would seem to be a vulnerable
arrangement and wondered if I could get a more robust replacement or locate a
static port somewhere else to avoid a repetition?
>
> Richard Iddon.
>
> G-RIXS
>
>
Message 3
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
Andrew,
What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I would
very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
module are installed?
Thanks
Kingsley in Oz.
-----Original Message-----
From: Andrew Sarangan
Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
further details of the device if anyone is interested.
Message 4
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| Subject: | Tri-Gear Nose Wheel Fork! |
Hi Guys,
Does anyone out there have an undamaged or spare Tri-Gear nose wheel fork complete
with the pivot shaft fitted that I could purchase?
Have contacted Europa but would prefer not to use them if at all possible?
Regards
Robert
G-RPAF
--------
Robert
Read this topic online here:
http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=424998#424998
Message 5
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
the level. See attached pictures.
So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
removable and does not interfere with the controls.
On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
<kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
>
> Andrew,
>
> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I would
> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
>
> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
> module are installed?
>
> Thanks
>
> Kingsley in Oz.
>
>
> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
> To: Europa List
> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
>
>
>
> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
>
>
Message 6
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
Ingenious! Truly slick and (mechanically) simple and non-intrusive. Patent
it, quick! ;-)
Would you be amiable to supplying code etc. to avoid duplication of effort?
Cheers and thx!
Pete
A239
On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 10:02 AM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com>
wrote:
> I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
>
> The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
> holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
> below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
> is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
> level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
> the level. See attached pictures.
>
> So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
> 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
> each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
> measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
> LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
> four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
> to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
> tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
> removable and does not interfere with the controls.
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
> > <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
> >
> > Andrew,
> >
> > What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I
> would
> > very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
> >
> > Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
> > module are installed?
> >
> > Thanks
> >
> > Kingsley in Oz.
> >
> >
> > -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
> > Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
> > To: Europa List
> > Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
> >
> >
> >
> > The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
> > eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
> > attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
> > LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
> > shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
> > how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
> > totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
> > further details of the device if anyone is interested.
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
Message 7
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
I did a similar thing some years back when building an alloy tank. I
used a series of solid-state liquid level sensors (data sheet attached)
that incorporate a photo diode and photo transistor moulded into a
polysulphone housing. The domed end uses the simple effect of total
internal reflection to either switch the transistor on or off depending
on whether it is immersed or not.
I mounted mine in tapped bosses on the surface of the tank, but these
could easily be built into a "dip-stick" and mounted from the top of the
plastic tank. Just another variation on a theme.
Nigel
On 17/06/2014 15:02, Andrew Sarangan wrote:
> I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
>
> The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
> holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
> below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
> is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
> level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
> the level. See attached pictures.
>
> So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
> 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
> each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
> measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
> LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
> four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
> to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
> tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
> removable and does not interfere with the controls.
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
>> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
>>
>> Andrew,
>>
>> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I would
>> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
>>
>> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
>> module are installed?
>>
>> Thanks
>>
>> Kingsley in Oz.
>>
>>
>> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
>> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
>> To: Europa List
>> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
>>
>>
>>
>> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
>> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
>> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
>> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
>> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
>> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
>> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
>> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
>>
>>
>>
>>
Message 8
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| Subject: | Re: Pitot static |
That sounds like a good solution.
Thanks Pete.
Richard Iddon
G-RIXS
On 17 Jun 2014, at 08:28, Pete Lawless <pete@lawless.info> wrote:
>
> Hi Richard
>
> Been there done exactly the same thing! Drill out the remains of the plastic
plug. Drill a small hole right through the metal about half an inch back from
the end of the static pipe and plug the end. Works a treat, no noticeable difference
on indications and you can't knock the end off again.
>
> Regards
>
> Pete
>
Message 9
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
AndrewIm dazzledyou are indeed a very clever fellowkudosFred
On Jun 17, 2014, at 7:02 AM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com> wrote:
> I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
>
> The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
> holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
> below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
> is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
> level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
> the level. See attached pictures.
>
> So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
> 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
> each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
> measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
> LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
> four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
> to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
> tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
> removable and does not interfere with the controls.
>
>
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
>> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
>>
>> Andrew,
>>
>> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I would
>> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
>>
>> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
>> module are installed?
>>
>> Thanks
>>
>> Kingsley in Oz.
>>
>>
>> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
>> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
>> To: Europa List
>> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
>>
>>
>>
>> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
>> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
>> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
>> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
>> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
>> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
>> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
>> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
>>
>>
>>
>>
> <IMG_3404.JPG><IMG_3395.JPG>
do not archive
Message 10
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
Very nice sensor (I would go the paralled 'dipstick' tube route) - thx for
the link! I could not find any compatibility tables and wonder if any of
the nasties (are there chlorinated solvents?) in auto fuel are a problem.
I guess the key to Andrew's eloquent solution of actually using the tank as
the optical refractor is that there is no fuel contact with any sensors,
nor any additional plumbing required.
Cheers & thx,
Pete
On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 11:07 AM, Nigel Graham <nigel_graham@m-tecque.co.uk>
wrote:
> I did a similar thing some years back when building an alloy tank. I used
> a series of solid-state liquid level sensors (data sheet attached) that
> incorporate a photo diode and photo transistor moulded into a polysulphone
> housing. The domed end uses the simple effect of total internal reflection
> to either switch the transistor on or off depending on whether it is
> immersed or not.
> I mounted mine in tapped bosses on the surface of the tank, but these
> could easily be built into a "dip-stick" and mounted from the top of the
> plastic tank. Just another variation on a theme.
>
> Nigel
>
>
> On 17/06/2014 15:02, Andrew Sarangan wrote:
>
>> I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
>>
>> The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
>> holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
>> below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
>> is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
>> level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
>> the level. See attached pictures.
>>
>> So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
>> 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
>> each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
>> measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
>> LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
>> four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
>> to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
>> tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
>> removable and does not interfere with the controls.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
>> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
>>
>>> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
>>>
>>> Andrew,
>>>
>>> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I
>>> would
>>> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
>>>
>>> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
>>> module are installed?
>>>
>>> Thanks
>>>
>>> Kingsley in Oz.
>>>
>>>
>>> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
>>> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
>>> To: Europa List
>>> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
>>> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
>>> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
>>> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
>>> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
>>> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
>>> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
>>> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>
Message 11
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
(since "it's only sofware" ;-) .....
I could see using two banks of LED's and sensors, one for each side of the
saddle, which would provide for very easy and quick self-check/fault
detection (when above reserve), as well as L/R reserve levels when getting
that low on fuel.
That is truly cool.
Cheers,
Pete
On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 11:37 AM, Fred Klein <fklein@orcasonline.com> wrote
:
>
> AndrewI=99m dazzledyou are indeed a very clever f
ellowkudosFred
>
> On Jun 17, 2014, at 7:02 AM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
> >
> > The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
> > holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
> > below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
> > is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
> > level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
> > the level. See attached pictures.
> >
> > So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
> > 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
> > each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
> > measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
> > LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
> > four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
> > to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
> > tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
> > removable and does not interfere with the controls.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
> > <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
> >> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
> >>
> >> Andrew,
> >>
> >> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I
> would
> >> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
> >>
> >> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
> >> module are installed?
> >>
> >> Thanks
> >>
> >> Kingsley in Oz.
> >>
> >>
> >> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
> >> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
> >> To: Europa List
> >> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
> >>
> >>
m
> >
> >>
> >> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
> >> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
> >> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
> >> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
> >> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
> >> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
> >> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
> >> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> > <IMG_3404.JPG><IMG_3395.JPG>
>
> do not archive
>
>
===========
===========
===========
===========
>
>
Message 12
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
Yes very cunning indeed. Im Deeply impressed too
On 17 Jun 2014 11:30, "Peter Zutrauen" <peterz@zutrasoft.com> wrote:
> (since "it's only sofware" ;-) .....
>
> I could see using two banks of LED's and sensors, one for each side of
> the saddle, which would provide for very easy and quick self-check/fault
> detection (when above reserve), as well as L/R reserve levels when gettin
g
> that low on fuel.
>
> That is truly cool.
>
> Cheers,
> Pete
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 11:37 AM, Fred Klein <fklein@orcasonline.com>
> wrote:
>
>>
>> AndrewI=99m dazzledyou are indeed a very clever
fellowkudosFred
>>
>> On Jun 17, 2014, at 7:02 AM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com> wrote
:
>>
>> > I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
>> >
>> > The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
>> > holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
>> > below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
>> > is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
>> > level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
>> > the level. See attached pictures.
>> >
>> > So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
>> > 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
>> > each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
>> > measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
>> > LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
>> > four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
>> > to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
>> > tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
>> > removable and does not interfere with the controls.
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
>> > <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
>> >> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
>> >>
>> >> Andrew,
>> >>
>> >> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me.
I
>> would
>> >> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
>> >>
>> >> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank an
d
>> >> module are installed?
>> >>
>> >> Thanks
>> >>
>> >> Kingsley in Oz.
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
>> >> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
>> >> To: Europa List
>> >> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
>> >>
>> >>
>> asarangan@gmail.com>
>> >>
>> >> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
>> >> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
>> >> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit wit
h
>> >> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
>> >> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
>> >> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
>> >> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
>> >> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> > <IMG_3404.JPG><IMG_3395.JPG>
>>
>> do not archive
>>
>>
>>
>> ==========
>> st" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Europa-List
>> ==========
>> MS -
>> k">http://forums.matronics.com
>> ==========
>> e -
>> -Matt Dralle, List Admin.
>> t="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution
>> ==========
>>
>>
>>
>>
> *
>
===========
tronics.com/Navigator?Europa-List>
===========
===========
om/contribution>
===========
>
> *
>
>
Message 13
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
One could easily make two sets of these boards and install on both
sides of the saddle.
There is a major caveat to this method - if the tank is full to the
brim, the sensor will not be able to detect the edge, so it will give
an error. Similary, if the level is below the lowest photodetector, it
will read an error. Now, there might be a way to detect those
conditions too, by checking the light intensity and color, but I
didn't go that far.
The chip is Atmel ATTiny40 and the code is in C. I can provide that so
one does not have to redevelop it.
I will post details after this weekend.
On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 12:24 PM, Peter Zutrauen <peterz@zutrasoft.com> wrote:
> (since "it's only sofware" ;-) .....
>
> I could see using two banks of LED's and sensors, one for each side of the
> saddle, which would provide for very easy and quick self-check/fault
> detection (when above reserve), as well as L/R reserve levels when getting
> that low on fuel.
>
> That is truly cool.
>
> Cheers,
> Pete
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 11:37 AM, Fred Klein <fklein@orcasonline.com> wrote:
>>
>>
>> AndrewIm dazzledyou are indeed a very clever fellowkudosFred
>>
>> On Jun 17, 2014, at 7:02 AM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com> wrote:
>>
>> > I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
>> >
>> > The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
>> > holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
>> > below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
>> > is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
>> > level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
>> > the level. See attached pictures.
>> >
>> > So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
>> > 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
>> > each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
>> > measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
>> > LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
>> > four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
>> > to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
>> > tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
>> > removable and does not interfere with the controls.
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
>> > <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
>> >> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
>> >>
>> >> Andrew,
>> >>
>> >> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I
>> >> would
>> >> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
>> >>
>> >> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
>> >> module are installed?
>> >>
>> >> Thanks
>> >>
>> >> Kingsley in Oz.
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
>> >> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
>> >> To: Europa List
>> >> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> <asarangan@gmail.com>
>> >>
>> >> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
>> >> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
>> >> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
>> >> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
>> >> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
>> >> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
>> >> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
>> >> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> > <IMG_3404.JPG><IMG_3395.JPG>
>>
>> do not archive
>>
>>
>>
>> ==========
>> st" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Europa-List
>> ==========
>> MS -
>> k">http://forums.matronics.com
>> ==========
>> e -
>> -Matt Dralle, List Admin.
>> t="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution
>> ==========
>>
>>
>>
>
>
Message 14
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|
| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
Cool! I'll be looking forward to having some fun in C :-)
The Full/empty condition could be accomplished with an intensity check (as
you have suggested) in parallel with keeping the recent historical
data/trend for context (ie full vs empty)
thx!
Pete
On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 1:16 PM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com>
wrote:
>
> One could easily make two sets of these boards and install on both
> sides of the saddle.
>
> There is a major caveat to this method - if the tank is full to the
> brim, the sensor will not be able to detect the edge, so it will give
> an error. Similary, if the level is below the lowest photodetector, it
> will read an error. Now, there might be a way to detect those
> conditions too, by checking the light intensity and color, but I
> didn't go that far.
>
> The chip is Atmel ATTiny40 and the code is in C. I can provide that so
> one does not have to redevelop it.
>
> I will post details after this weekend.
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 12:24 PM, Peter Zutrauen <peterz@zutrasoft.com>
> wrote:
> > (since "it's only sofware" ;-) .....
> >
> > I could see using two banks of LED's and sensors, one for each side of
> the
> > saddle, which would provide for very easy and quick self-check/fault
> > detection (when above reserve), as well as L/R reserve levels when
> getting
> > that low on fuel.
> >
> > That is truly cool.
> >
> > Cheers,
> > Pete
> >
> >
> > On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 11:37 AM, Fred Klein <fklein@orcasonline.com>
> wrote:
> >>
> >>
> >> AndrewI=99m dazzledyou are indeed a very cleve
r fellowkudosFred
> >>
> >> On Jun 17, 2014, at 7:02 AM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com>
> wrote:
> >>
> >> > I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
> >> >
> >> > The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
> >> > holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
> >> > below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash lig
ht
> >> > is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the flui
d
> >> > level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or belo
w
> >> > the level. See attached pictures.
> >> >
> >> > So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board wit
h
> >> > 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashin
g
> >> > each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on t
he
> >> > measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
> >> > LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
> >> > four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
> >> > to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
> >> > tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
> >> > removable and does not interfere with the controls.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
> >> > <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
> >> >> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
> >> >>
> >> >> Andrew,
> >> >>
> >> >> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me.
> I
> >> >> would
> >> >> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
> >> >>
> >> >> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank
> and
> >> >> module are installed?
> >> >>
> >> >> Thanks
> >> >>
> >> >> Kingsley in Oz.
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
> >> >> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
> >> >> To: Europa List
> >> >> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >> <asarangan@gmail.com>
> >> >>
> >> >> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
> >> >> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
> >> >> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit
> with
> >> >> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
> >> >> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
> >> >> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becom
es
> >> >> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
> >> >> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> > <IMG_3404.JPG><IMG_3395.JPG>
> >>
> >> do not archive
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> ==========
> >> st" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Europa-List
> >> ==========
> >> MS -
> >> k">http://forums.matronics.com
> >> ==========
> >> e -
> >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin.
> >> t="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution
> >> ==========
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
===========
===========
===========
===========
>
>
Message 15
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| Subject: | Re: New cockpit panel |
Hi Europa Folks,
FINALLY - as promised I add some pictures of the ready Panel installed in my Europa.
You can see, that a little finish is yet to be done on carpets etc, but I think,
that you can get a good Impression of the design.
I tried to get in contact with the LAA twice by e-mail in April to get some information
of what they ask for a standard-MOD. Unfortunately I didn't get a response
until today.
However, if anyone is interested in spite of that, just let me know.....
Regards
Roland
PH-ZTI
XS Trigear 914
Read this topic online here:
http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=425035#425035
Attachments:
http://forums.matronics.com//files/021_433.jpg
http://forums.matronics.com//files/020_162.jpg
http://forums.matronics.com//files/022_699.jpg
Message 16
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|
| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
Hi Andrew,
Its probably not worth worrying about either of the scenarios, too much or too
little fuel. In both cases you know why, so possibly that is irrelevant. Itll
come good when the level drops from full, and there is a really big indicator
out the window if the fuel gets too low.
TR
On 18 Jun 2014, at 3:16 am, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> One could easily make two sets of these boards and install on both
> sides of the saddle.
>
> There is a major caveat to this method - if the tank is full to the
> brim, the sensor will not be able to detect the edge, so it will give
> an error. Similary, if the level is below the lowest photodetector, it
> will read an error. Now, there might be a way to detect those
> conditions too, by checking the light intensity and color, but I
> didn't go that far.
>
> The chip is Atmel ATTiny40 and the code is in C. I can provide that so
> one does not have to redevelop it.
>
> I will post details after this weekend.
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 12:24 PM, Peter Zutrauen <peterz@zutrasoft.com> wrote:
>> (since "it's only sofware" ;-) .....
>>
>> I could see using two banks of LED's and sensors, one for each side of the
>> saddle, which would provide for very easy and quick self-check/fault
>> detection (when above reserve), as well as L/R reserve levels when getting
>> that low on fuel.
>>
>> That is truly cool.
>>
>> Cheers,
>> Pete
>>
>>
>> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 11:37 AM, Fred Klein <fklein@orcasonline.com> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>> AndrewIm dazzledyou are indeed a very clever fellowkudosFred
>>>
>>> On Jun 17, 2014, at 7:02 AM, Andrew Sarangan <asarangan@gmail.com> wrote:
>>>
>>>> I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days.
>>>>
>>>> The idea was based on what I accidentally observed one day when
>>>> holding a flash light to the fuel tank. When the flash light is held
>>>> below the fuel level, the entire fluid lights up. When the flash light
>>>> is above the level, the tank lights up. The contrast across the fluid
>>>> level is about 10x. This is due to light being trapped above or below
>>>> the level. See attached pictures.
>>>>
>>>> So, I made a board with four LEDs in a column, and another board with
>>>> 10 photodetectors in a column. Using a microcontroller, I am flashing
>>>> each LED in sequence, and then computing the liquid level based on the
>>>> measured contrast. The output is displayed on a 10-bar display. The
>>>> LED board will attach to the aft of the baggage bay bulkhead, with
>>>> four holes to allow the light to get through. The detector board has
>>>> to attach somewhere on the front side of the tank. This might be the
>>>> tricky part because I need to make sure it is secure, but also
>>>> removable and does not interfere with the controls.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> On Tue, Jun 17, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Kingsley Hurst
>>>> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au> wrote:
>>>>> <kingsnjan@westnet.com.au>
>>>>>
>>>>> Andrew,
>>>>>
>>>>> What to do about a fuel gauge has been a bone of contention for me. I
>>>>> would
>>>>> very much appreciate your sharing how you made your device.
>>>>>
>>>>> Only thing is, can your set-up be accomplished AFTER the fuel tank and
>>>>> module are installed?
>>>>>
>>>>> Thanks
>>>>>
>>>>> Kingsley in Oz.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> -----Original Message----- From: Andrew Sarangan
>>>>> Sent: Tuesday, June 17, 2014 12:15 AM
>>>>> To: Europa List
>>>>> Subject: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> <asarangan@gmail.com>
>>>>>
>>>>> The fuel tank is translucent. One can clearly see the fuel level by
>>>>> eye. So, it occurred to me why not build a fuel level sensor that
>>>>> attaches to the outside of the tank? I recently built such a unit with
>>>>> LED illuminators and detectors, and it works like a charm. It even
>>>>> shows the waves when the fuel is sloshing around. Only question is,
>>>>> how does the translucency of the tank change with time? If it becomes
>>>>> totally opaque in a few years, then this won't work. I can post
>>>>> further details of the device if anyone is interested.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>> <IMG_3404.JPG><IMG_3395.JPG>
>>>
>>> do not archive
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ==========
>>> st" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Europa-List
>>> ==========
>>> MS -
>>> k">http://forums.matronics.com
>>> ==========
>>> e -
>>> -Matt Dralle, List Admin.
>>> t="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution
>>> ==========
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
Message 17
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| Subject: | Re: Noncontact fuel level indicator |
Many thanks Andrew, much appreciated. Oh to have a knowledge of
microprocessors and all that stuff! My only experience with electronics was
in the discrete component age in the early 60's when a flip flop was on a 42
pin module. I thought that was marvellous at the time!!
I await further updates from you.
Cheers
Kingsley
do not archive
-----Original Message-----
From: Andrew Sarangan
Sent: Wednesday, June 18, 2014 12:02 AM
Subject: Re: Europa-List: Noncontact fuel level indicator
I will take some photos and write up some details in a few days. . . . . . .
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