Ultrasonic liquid level sensing systems

摘要

Embodiments of the present invention provide an ultrasonic probe having an increased number (e.g., twelve) of ultrasonic sensors for measuring the level of liquid within a sealed container. The ultrasonic probe includes a neck tube that enables the ultrasonic probe to be used with existing, standardized container fittings despite having an enlarged barrel to accommodate the increased number of ultrasonic sensors. Embodiments of the present invention also provide a system and method in which ultrasonic sensors within an ultrasonic probe are activated one at a time to reduce crosstalk between the ultrasonic sensors and their wiring.

主权项

1. An ultrasonic probe for use with a container, the ultrasonic probe comprising:
a barrel having an outer diameter; a conduit disposed within the barrel; a neck tube coupled to the barrel and a portion of a fitting assembly, the neck tube comprising a shoulder portion, a lower opening defined by the shoulder portion, a side wall, and a first outer diameter defined by the sidewall, the first outer diameter of the neck tube being less than the outer diameter of the barrel; an internal volume disposed within the barrel, the internal volume being isolated from the conduit; and a plurality of ultrasonic sensors disposed within the internal volume, each ultrasonic sensor of the plurality of ultrasonic sensors having a wire that extends from the internal volume through the neck tube.