Device and method for measuring the level of a liquid within a container

摘要

A device for measuring the level of a liquid within a container, in particular the level of liquid gas, comprises a housing and a piezoelectric element adapted for generating vibrations when energized. A coupling pad is provided which is bonded to the piezoelectric element for transmitting the vibrations to a surface of the container. Further, a non-tilting element is provided which surrounds the coupling pad. A method for measuring the level of liquid within a container uses a piezoelectric element for generating vibrations which are transmitted into the shell of the container. An analyzing strategy is used which distinguishes between normal post-pulse oscillations of the piezoelectric element after a measurement was triggered, and extended post-pulse oscillations which are the result of echoed oscillations in the shell of the container.

主权项

1. A device for measuring the level of a liquid within a container, in particular the level of liquid gas, comprising a housing, a piezoelectric element adapted for generating vibrations when energized, a coupling pad bonded to the piezoelectric element for transmitting the vibrations to a surface of the container, and a non-tilting element which surrounds the coupling pad, the device being a handheld device wherein the coupling pad is mounted displaceably in the housing and cooperates with an electric switch for automatically triggering a measurement when said device is being pressed against a container, said coupling pad protruding over a forward surface of said non-tilting element such that a measurement can only be triggered when said measuring device is pressed against a surface of said container in an orientation which is generally perpendicular to said surface.