Control your fuel expenditures thanks to Eco-Pilot!

Pistons of the injection pump trigger the fuel pulsations in the diesel supply line. These pulsations vary the measurable flow at high frequency and cause a brief reversal. These pulsations can also cause damage to the flow meters. For these reasons, the flowmeters used must be able to measure the flow in both directions and be very responsive. This is why we have chosen flowmeters that measure flow in both directions at a frequency of up to 5000 pulses per litre (compared to less than 200 for some flowmeters on the market).

Our flow meters take into account the temperature of the diesel fuel. On marine engines, diesel consumption is determined by the difference between the supply and return flows of fuel. However, the temperature of the fuel in the return circuit is 30°C higher than in the supply circuit. This temperature difference changes the volume of the fuel and distorts the measurements. The flow meters used by Eco-Pilot monitor these temperature differences and take them into account. The consumption is calculated for a given reference temperature (e.g., 15°C) allowing you to compare it with your engine manufacturer’s specifications.

Flow meters are placed on a vital part of the boat: propulsion. It is therefore essential that these flowmeters are uncompromisingly reliable. In our opinion, only KRAL products meet these criteria.

Each element of the system has a dedicated function. The Eco-Pilot has its own display, which you can easily replace as it is separate from the data processing box.

The hardware specifically built for the Eco-Pilot allows for optimal miniaturization of each element. In addition, the hardware is insensitive to malware and viruses that affect consumer computer systems.

With the CAN bus, each component is connected to the network using a single connector.

This means that parts can be changed quickly and easily in the event of a breakdown. There is no need to call in a specialist to replace the hardware if necessary.

The system constantly checks the sensors and the user is notified if any defect occurs, with precise information on the origin and location of the fault (engine affected, connector disconnected, sensor out of order) thus simplifying troubleshooting. A fundamental point in a system where sensors can be spread all over the boat.

In order to prevent any incident, the Eco-Pilot has three unique bypass valve functions for the flow meters:

– Centralized control: The captain operates the bypass valves from the bridge.

– Automatic activation: When an event is detected on the supply line, the system automatically activates the bypass valves.

–  From the engine room: Push buttons allow immediate opening of all bypass valves in the system.

An autonomous and disengageable system

Each element of the Eco-Pilot has been designed specifically for our solution.

We do not use generic off-the-shelf hardware or software that could threaten reliability. The components of Eco-Pilot are all specialized in a simple function. The operation of the system is distributed so that it will keep on working even if one of the components fails.

Sealed industrial-grade modules

All modules are submersible, heat and vibration resistant to industrial standards. The connection system, including locking mechanisms, is submersible.

These elements provide the keys to implementing fuel economy policies based on the reality of the field, and allow the identification and implementation of reactions and piloting profiles adapted to any type of maritime route, whatever the external conditions, giving users greater control over their consumption.