Fuel Dispenser Control System
Precision control mechanisms in fuel dispensing technology
A fuel dispenser with tank achieves precise control of fuel refueling amounts through a coordinated system of mechanical components, electronic sensors, and intelligent control units, ensuring each refueling operation meets the required accuracy standards.
Flow Meter: The Measurement Core
- Primary Function: Measures the volume of fuel passing through the dispenser
- Technology: Most use positive displacement flow meters that trap fixed fuel volumes
- Mechanical Operation: Fuel drives internal gears or pistons to rotate or reciprocate
- Signal Conversion: Each rotation corresponds to a specific volume, converted to electrical signals
- Real-time Communication: Transmits count signals to the electronic control unit continuously
Electronic Control Unit: The System Brain
- Processing Role: Calculates exact amount of fuel dispensed from flow meter data
- Target Comparison: Compares real-time flow with user-set target amount
- Flow Regulation: Signals solenoid valve to reduce flow as target approaches
- Precision Feature: Implements "slow-down" phase to prevent overshooting
- Residual Fuel Management: Accounts for fuel remaining in hose after shut-off
Environmental Compensation
- Temperature Effects: Fuel volume expands/contracts with temperature changes
- Pressure Variations: Tank pressure fluctuations affect flow rate accuracy
- Sensor Integration: Monitors temperature and pressure in fuel line and tank
- Algorithmic Adjustment: ECU adjusts readings based on environmental factors
- Standard Volume Reference: Ensures final amount reflects reference conditions
Refueling Gun and Safety Mechanisms
- Automatic Shut-off: Sensors detect when fuel reaches tank top
- Spill Prevention: Stops flow precisely to avoid overflows
- Signal Integration: Shut-off signal sent to ECU for immediate valve closure
- Final Accuracy: Stops flow meter at exact full point for precise reading
- Display Synchronization: Locks final accurate reading on dispenser screen
Summary: The accurate control of fuel refueling amounts relies on the seamless interaction of flow meters for measurement, ECUs for data processing and adjustment, solenoid valves for flow regulation, and environmental sensors for compensation—all working together to deliver consistent, precise results for every refueling task.