Noncontact Sensors for Automotive Testing

A continuing effort to develop noncontact test techniques for performing diesel engine diagnostics has led to recent advancements in sensor technology. The U.S. Army Tank Automotive Command (TACOM), working with RCA, is developing three new sensors: a pressure transducer for measuring dynamic exhaust pressure, a microwave transducer for measuring turbocharger speed, and a variable reluctance sensor for measuring internal combustion engine crankshaft speed and position.

When used in conjunction with their automatic test equipment, Simplified Test Equipment (STE), these three sensors can help determine engine revolutions per minute, top dead center reference, turbocharger condition, turbocharged engine power potential, combustion chamber faults and fuel system faults.