[ Success stories ]

TankScout – Contactless liquid level sensor

Camper van kitchen cabinet open to show fresh water tanks, filter and power unit monitored by a TankScout level sensor

[ Project summary ]

Strip’s developed TankScout, a radar-based liquid level sensor mounted outside plastic tanks. It measures through the tank wall without drilling and adapts to different tank geometries and system interfaces.

Reliable liquid level monitoring without drilling into the tank

Monitoring liquid levels in plastic tanks is common in caravans, motorhomes, boats and other mobile applications. Conventional solutions often require sensors to be installed inside the tank or openings to be made in the tank wall. This can complicate installation, increase the risk of leaks and make servicing or retrofitting more difficult.

Strip’s developed TankScout, a contactless radar-based liquid level sensor that is installed directly on the outside of a plastic tank. The sensor measures the liquid level through the tank wall, eliminating the need for drilling and avoiding any direct contact between the electronics and the liquid. The compact sensor is designed for simple integration into both new and existing systems. Its external installation makes it particularly suitable for retrofit applications, while its robust, sealed construction enables reliable operation in demanding mobile and outdoor environments. An important part of the solution is its flexibility. Different vehicles and applications use tanks of different shapes and sizes, so the sensor can be configured according to the characteristics of the individual tank. This enables the same sensing concept to be adapted to a wide range of water, fuel and waste tanks, including applications with non-standard tank geometries. The solution can also be adapted to different control systems and communication requirements, allowing manufacturers to integrate the sensor into their existing electronics without having to redesign the complete system.

Key benefits for customers:

High measurement resolution: Enables precise detection of changes in liquid level and provides users with a more detailed and useful indication of the actual tank status.
Non-invasive installation: No drilling or modification of the tank is required.
Reduced risk of leaks: The sensor remains completely outside the tank.
Fast and simple installation: External mounting simplifies both production and retrofit installation.
Flexible application: Suitable for water, fuel and waste tanks in caravans, marine applications and other mobile systems.
Adaptable to different tank designs: Configuration can be adjusted according to tank geometry and application requirements.
Easy system integration: The sensor can be adapted to different control systems and interfaces.
Reliable operation: Robust construction is designed for demanding environments, vibration and outdoor use.
Low maintenance: With no moving parts or components inside the tank, servicing requirements are eliminated.

By combining radar sensing technology, high measurement resolution and a simple external installation concept, Strip’s created a flexible liquid level monitoring solution that helps manufacturers simplify installation, improve reliability and introduce smart tank monitoring without fundamentally changing the tank itself.