Application of Microprocessor to Fuel Measurement System

A microprocessor can be used with a balance, weight set, and beaker to provide an economical and accurate measure of engine fuel consumption rate. The microprocessor controls the mechanical hardware, performs calculations, communicates with peripheral devices, and accepts calibration values. In this paper an integrating mass flow sensor and display system, which has been developed, is described. It uses an Intel microprocessor linked to a mechanical balance beam scale. It currently has capabilities to measure mass flow over a 2-to 100- kg/h range with a typical total long-term inaccuracy of no more than ± 0.2 percent of reading. It can also receive engine power output data and calculate normalized brake specific fuel consumption (bsfc), g/kWh. Integration time, flow rate, and bsfc are displayed on the front panel and are made available to peripheral devices using an EIA standard RS232C format.