The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jun. 12, 2012
Filed:
Jul. 21, 2009
Robert D. Keller, Davisburg, MI (US);
William G. Spurrier, Iii, Macomb Township, MI (US);
Gerrit V. Beneker, Lake Orion, MI (US);
Jeffrey B. Smith, Rochester Hills, MI (US);
Mark L. Dell'eva, Grand Blanc, MI (US);
Robert D. Keller, Davisburg, MI (US);
William G. Spurrier, III, Macomb Township, MI (US);
Gerrit V. Beneker, Lake Orion, MI (US);
Jeffrey B. Smith, Rochester Hills, MI (US);
Mark L. Dell'Eva, Grand Blanc, MI (US);
Eaton Corporation, Cleveland, OH (US);
Abstract
A fluid level detection system includes a fluid reservoir defining a cavity for holding fluid therein. A fluid level sensor is mounted to the fluid reservoir. The solenoid body defines a first opening establishing fluid communication between an armature chamber and a cavity defined by the reservoir. Travel time of an armature within the armature chamber is thereby affected by fluid level in the reservoir. A controller is operatively connected to the sensor and is operable to receive a sensor signal indicative of travel time from the sensor and formulate a control signal corresponding thereto. A power source is operatively connected to the controller for energizing the coil and the controller. In some embodiments, multiple fluid containing components are connected with one or more controllers. An engine, a transmission, and rear axle differentials on a vehicle may be equipped with sensors to provide fluid level, temperature and viscosity information.