Communications: electrical – Aircraft alarm or indicating systems – Flight alarm
Reexamination Certificate
2002-08-16
2004-02-10
Mullen, Jr., Thomas J (Department: 2632)
Communications: electrical
Aircraft alarm or indicating systems
Flight alarm
C340S626000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06690297
ABSTRACT:
BRIEF SUMMARY
The object of the invention is to provide pilots of low-wing, multi-fuel-tank aircraft with a warning that they are about to experience engine failure due to fuel starvation 1) because of a blockage or restriction in the system, usually caused by improper fuel selector position or a clogged fuel tank vent, or 2) because the fuel tank in use is exhausted of fuel. The invention provides a warning via lights on the instrument panel in sufficient time to allow the pilot to take corrective action before the engine quits. The system is low-cost and easy to install.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG.
1
: Instrument panel warning light array
1) 3-way switch
2) Daylight fuel restriction warning light
3) Tank empty daylight warning light
4) Night restriction warning light
5) Tank empty night warning light
Note: 2) and 3) are bright red lights for daytime use. 4) and 5) are smaller, much dimmer lights so as not to impair a pilot's vision should he get a warning light at a critical time at night.
FIG.
2
: A schematic of a fuel system incorporating present invention
1), 2) Left and right fuel tanks
3) Fuel selector valve
4) Engine-driven fuel pump
5) “T” fitting on outlet side of selector valve
6) Two-circuit vacuum switch
7) Instrument panel warning light array
REFERENCES:
patent: 3958107 (1976-05-01), Edelson et al.
patent: 4673356 (1987-06-01), Schmidt
patent: 5575441 (1996-11-01), Gervais et al.
patent: 5760712 (1998-06-01), Sauer
patent: 6408828 (2002-06-01), Wheeler
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