A new-technology digital fuel sensor that has been adopted for Cirrus aircraft soon will be available as a retrofit for other GA aircraft, the manufacturer said this week at EAA AirVenture. “Even in turbulence I have found the system to be extremely accurate,” says Scott Philiben, CEO of CIES, headquartered in Redmond, Ore. “When it says I have half a tank, I do have half a tank.” The sensor technology provides a steady data stream to the multi-function display in the cockpit, Philiben said. There is no need to amplify or condition the signal to compensate for long wiring runs or corroded connections. “The end result is precise and reliable fuel level reporting in all conditions and with all fuel types,” according to the company.
Philiben said he has patented the technology and is working with manufacturers to complete factory installations. He also is considering getting STC approvals to offer the sensor as a retrofit. The company also is exploring other markets, Philiben said, such as the automotive, trucking, rail, and propane industries.
