Portable fuel analyzer for the diagnosis of fuel-related problems on-site at the vehicle service bay

摘要

Method and apparatus for diagnosing fuel-related problems at the site of vehicle servicing and matching fuels to new engine designs. Fuel properties associated with a fuel sample can be measured with mid- infrared analysis. The measured fuel property values can be compared with pre-determined preferred values for the fuel properties for the particular type of vehicle. Fuel-related problems can then be identified and diagnosed based upon this comparison, and the diagnosis can be immediately displayed for the operator. In one embodiment, driveability index can be determined in situ and in real time. In other embodiments, octane number, and Reid vapor pressure can be similarly determined.