Forecourt dispenser controller providing power supply and / or housing for accessory computer or device

Abstract

The invention is a forecourt controller (FCC) designed to support third-party computers by providing housing, power, electrical protection, and battery backup. This FCC allows third-party computers with independent software applications and operating systems to operate within the FCC enclosure without any possibility of interfering with the FCC's core function of managing fuel dispensers. The controller's enclosure houses key components, including the fuel dispenser control system and a power supply that converts AC to regulated DC. The power supply may also include surge protection and a battery backup system to ensure reliable and stable power for the various devices within the FCC enclosure. This solution offers a flexible, modular approach to fuel station management, allowing third-party software to be safely incorporated into the forecourt controller without compromising the operational security of the fuel dispensers.

Description

FORECOURT DISPENSER CONTROLLER PROVIDING POWER SUPPLY AND / OR HOUSING FOR ACCESSORY COMPUTER OR DEVICEReference to Prior ApplicationThis application claims priority of the provisional patent application 63 / 587,744, filed 10 / 4 / 2023 entitled FORECOURT DISPENSER CONTROLLER PROVIDING POWER SUPPLY AND / OR HOUSING FOR ACCESSORY COMPUTER OR DEVICE by Miguel Giacaman.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention pertains to forecourt equipment for gas stations. More specifically, the invention relates to a forecourt dispenser controller equipped with the capability to accept third party computers with separate software therein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] To implement automation and computerized data processing at a fuel service there is the need of at least two main pieces of equipment; a Forecourt Controller (FCC) and a computer. A forecourt dispenser controller refers to an electronic device or system designed to manage, control, and monitor the operation of fuel dispensers located in the forecourt of a fuel station. This controller ensures the precise delivery of fuels to vehicles, manages transactions, integrates with point-of-sale systems, and provides safety and security features to prevent unauthorized access or malfunctions It may also facilitate communication between the fuel dispensers and the central station system, supporting real-time monitoring, reporting, and diagnostics. The FCC allows the computer to communicate with the fuel dispensers at the forecourt area of the fuel filling station. That way the computer can run software applications that using the FCC, can control dispensers to authorize fuel delivery, set quantity or volume1SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)limits, program fuel prices per volume, and retrieve delivery data of volume and amount delivered either cumulative or over a period of time. Both equipment, the FCC and the computer, need electrical power and housing. Usually, the supply of electric power can be interrupted or can be anomalous and be inappropriate low, instable or carry high tension (voltage) that can cause malfunction or damage to their electric components. Since both, the FCC and the computer are needed for the correct operation ofthe automation system, there is a need for electric power supply, electric protection and electric backup to both equipment. Also, both equipment needs an enclosure.

[0003] Providing electric power supply to the computer may present several challenges and potential problems. Ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted power supply is crucial for maintaining the functionality and operational efficiency of the computerized systems in a safety-critical environment like a gas station. Gas stations often experience fluctuations in power supply due to external factors like weather conditions, electrical grid issues, or accidents. Ensuring a stable and reliable power source for the accessory device or external computer is essential to prevent unexpected shutdowns or disruptions in critical operations. Given the critical nature of gas station control systems, it becomes a necessity to have backup power solutions in place to handle power outages. Implementing uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems or backup generators can help maintain essential functions during power interruptions and prevent data loss or system downtime. Integrating the accessory device or external computer with the existing power infrastructure of the gas station may be complex. Different power requirements, voltages, and connection methods may need to be considered to ensure the external computer receives the correct power input without causing damage. Gas stations often operate on tight budgets, and energy efficiency is a consideration for cost savings and environmental responsibility. The accessory devices or external computer's power consumption should be optimized to minimize operational expenses. To ensure high availability and minimize downtime, redundant power2SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)supply configurations or failover mechanisms might be necessary. Implementing these solutions can be complex and require careful planning to avoid potential points of failure. Gas station managers or IT personnel may need the ability to remotely monitor the power status of the accessory devices or external computer. Implementing remote monitoring solutions can add complexity to the system setup and might require secure network connectivity. The accessory devices or external computer's power requirements should be compatible with the available power outlets and voltage standards at the gas station. Adapters or transformers might be needed if there are mismatches. Hence, there is a duplicate of sets of power supply, electric protection, electric backup and enclosure, one set for the FCC and one set for the computer. Usually, the power supply is independently integrated to both the FCC and the computer.

[0004] The power backup, aka UPS, and the protection units like an AC voltage surge suppressor and AC voltage regulators are independent support units that add to the cost and space in the fuel service station. New computer technology can be small, low powered and inexpensive, and is usually sold as bare boards, which are just small electronic PCB with no enclosure or power supply but are most capable of running some or all the computer applications used to automate the fuel delivery operation at a fuel service station. Therefore, there is the possibility to furnish an FCC with an electric connector to supply power to an external computer. This power could also be protected from electric disturbances and be backup with batteries or supercapacitors. Optionally, the FCC can provide housing to such a computer. A few in the industry have begun opening up forecourt dispenser technology to allow it to have greater flexibility. United States Patent No. 10152843B2, granted to Seitchik, Tomenchok Jr., and Robert E., discloses a hybrid FCC with a closed sub-system that communicates with and controls forecourt device operations, and an open sub-system that manages in-store operations. This security system introduces a software-based boundary to protect the FCC’s core functions from interference or malfunctions caused by the open sub-system, addressing challenges similar to those posed by3SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)third-party software applications. However, existing forecourt dispenser controllers currently lack the capability to power and host accessory devices or computers, limiting their flexibility and utility. There is, therefore, a need for a forecourt controller with enhanced features that can supply power and offer housing to a variety of devices or computers. In view of the above referred problems and necessities, applicant developed a forecourt dispenser controller that is designed to supply electricity to one or more accessory devices or computers. It also has the capability to conveniently host such additional component(s) within its housing. The controller can power and house a variety of accessory devices and other computer boards that are not directly involved in controlling the fuel dispensers, such as computers running on firmware or established operating systems like Linux or Windows.BRIED SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] To implement automation and computerized data processing at a fuel service station, at least two key pieces of equipment are required: a Forecourt Controller (FCC) and a computer. A forecourt controller refers to an electronic device or system designed to manage, control, and monitor the operation of fuel dispensers located in the forecourt of a fuel station. The FCC ensures the accurate delivery of fuel to vehicles, manages transactions, integrates with external computers, and provides safety and security features to prevent unauthorized access or malfunctions. External computers typically run point-of-sale, back-office, and various management system software applications. Through the FCC, these software applications can authorize fuel delivery, set maximum amounts or volume limits, program fuel prices per volume, and retrieve delivery data such as the volume and amount dispensed to specific vehicles, as well as cumulative fuel delivery over time. Both the FCC and the computer require electrical power and housing. However, power supply can often be interrupted or become unstable, with issues such as low voltage or power surges that can lead to malfunctions or damage to the electronic components. As both the FCC and the computer are essential for the automation4SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)system's operation, a stable power supply, electrical protection, and backup power are necessary for both pieces of equipment. Additionally, both devices require proper enclosures for housing and protection. Some FCCs, utilizing a computer board running operating systems such as Windows, Linux, or Android, can run both the fuel dispenser control application and third- party software applications for point-of-sale, back-office, or other management systems.However, this approach presents security risks, as it allows third-party applications the potential to interfere with the operation of the fuel dispensers.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate some, but not the only or exclusive, examples of embodiments and / or features.

[0007] FIG. 1 shows a representative view of the system.

[0008] FIG. 2 shows a representative view of the method.

[0009] Other aspects of the present invention shall be more readily understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and the following detailed description, neither of which should be considered limiting.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In this description, the directional prepositions of up, upwardly, down, downwardly, front, back, top, upper, bottom, lower, left, right and other such terms refer to the device as it is oriented and appears in the drawings and are used for convenience only; they are not intended to be limiting or to imply that the device has to be used or positioned in any particular orientation. Conventional components of the invention are elements that are well-known in the5SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)prior art and will not be discussed in detail for this disclosure. In this embodiment, a hardwarebased boundary is proposed, with the FCC and third-party applications operating on independent computers. The main benefits of this invention include: A) A single equipment solution that operates both FCC functionality and third-party applications. B) A safety feature that ensures the independent operation of the FCC functionality and third-party applications by running them on separate computers, preventing the third-party application from interfering with the proper operation of the FCC. C) Cost savings through shared resources such as the power supply, electrical protection, battery backup, and a shared enclosure that can be used by both the FCC and third-party computers. D) Flexibility for third-party developers to specify which computer and operating system they want their software solutions to run on. An FCC communication interface may allow connection to the third-party developer's computer, either wirelessly or via cable. A custom electronic interface can be provided at the third-party developer’s request. Optionally, the third-party computer can be factory-installed and may either be a standard operating system-based computer or a custom unit supplied by the third-party developer or client. This third-party computer can interface with various equipment or devices on the forecourt, such as price signs, fuel storage tank level measurement devices, car wash equipment, external computer screens, and other systems as deemed appropriate by the third- party developer. The FCC enclosure may also provide physical security, preventing unauthorized access to internal hardware components, which may include the FCC controller’s main processor, memory modules, communication interfaces, power management systems, and the third-party computer and its interface to the FCC. The enclosure is designed with sufficient space to accommodate these components.

[0011] The present invention relates to a forecourt dispenser controller that manages electrical power and housing for one or more accessory devices, such as a computer, to improve the operational capabilities of fuel dispensing systems at gas stations. This controller integrates6SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)advanced features such as power management, remote monitoring, and support for a variety of accessory devices, including third party equipped with independent software applications and operating systems like Linux or Windows. The third party hardware connects to communication ports within the unit is considered to be an independent or third party computer and is not physically connected to the data lines of the fuel dispensers and cannot interfere with the execution of the firmware that controls the dispenser. The system’s communication interface or means to connect with the third party developer's computer either wirelessly or via cable connections. The third party computer could be factory installed at clients request computer could be a standard operating system based computer or a custom unit that could optionally be provided by the third party developer or client. The third party computer can be used to communicate with a multiplicity of equipment or devices the third party developer considers appropriate, like price sings, fuel storage tank level measuring devices, car wash equipment, external computer screens, etc. that reside on the forecourt. The forecourt dispenser controller comprises an enclosure designed to house and protect all the essential hardware components required for its operation. This enclosure is constructed from durable materials, typically metal or high-strength plastic, to protect against environmental hazards such as dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. It also provides physical security, preventing unauthorized access to the internal components. Within the enclosure, the hardware components include the controller’s main processor, memory modules, communication interfaces, and power management systems. The enclosure is designed with enough space to accommodate these components, while also including designated areas for accessory devices such as computers or additional peripherals. The enclosure is modular, allowing for easy installation and removal of components for maintenance or upgrades.

[0012] The forecourt dispenser controller includes at least one power supply retained inside the enclosure. This power supply is designed to provide reliable and stable electrical power to the7SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)controller itself and to one or more accessory devices housed within the enclosure. The power supply can be configured to convert incoming AC power to the appropriate DC levels required by the internal components and accessory devices. In some configurations, the power supply may be designed with multi-output channels to provide power to several accessory devices simultaneously. The power supply also incorporates protective mechanisms, such as fuses and surge protectors, to prevent damage due to electrical disturbances like power surges, voltage spikes, or outages.

[0013] To accommodate the varying power requirements of different accessory devices, the forecourt dispenser controller features a voltage adjustment mechanism. This mechanism allows the controller to fine-tune the voltage output supplied to accessory devices, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. The voltage adjustment can be achieved either through hardware-based means or software-based means, depending on the specific configuration of the controller. In a hardware-based configuration, the voltage adjustment is controlled by physical switches or dials located on the controller. These switches allow a technician to manually adjust the voltage output based on the power requirements of the accessory device, providing a simple and effective way to ensure voltage compatibility. In a software-based configuration, the controller includes a software-based voltage regulation system. This system allows for remote control and monitoring of the power supply voltage using a software interface. The controller can be connected to a central monitoring system, enabling remote adjustments of the voltage to suit the needs of the accessory device. This feature is particularly advantageous in large-scale installations where multiple forecourt controllers need to be managed remotely.

[0014] The controller further includes a DC voltage regulator, which is connected to the power supply and ensures that the output voltage remains within the acceptable limits required by the accessory devices. The DC voltage regulator is capable of compensating for fluctuations in the8SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)incoming power supply, maintaining a consistent and stable output even when the input power varies, This is particularly important in environments like gas stations, where power quality may be affected by external factors. The DC voltage regulator is housed within the enclosure, ensuring it is protected from environmental damage and providing a compact, integrated design.

[0015] For improved reliability, the forecourt dispenser controller is equipped with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). The UPS ensures that the controller and any connected accessory devices can continue to operate during power outages or interruptions. The UPS can be based on batteries or supercapacitors, depending on the specific needs of the installation. In a battery-based UPS, rechargeable batteries provide power during short-term outages, with the system automatically switching to battery power when a loss of power is detected and recharging the batteries when normal power is restored. In a supercapacitor-based UPS, the system provides a faster response time and longer operational life compared to traditional batteries, making it particularly suitable for installations with frequent short-term outages, as the supercapacitors can be rapidly charged and discharged.

[0016] The forecourt dispenser controller includes at least one power source output, which is directly connected to the voltage adjustment mechanism. These power outputs are designed to supply power to accessory devices housed within the enclosure. Each accessory device has power inputs that connect to the power source output of the controller, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. In some embodiments, the power outputs are designed to support external accessory devices that are not housed within the controller’s enclosure. In this configuration, external devices can be connected via cables that pass through specially designed openings in the enclosure. These openings allow for secure and organized connections without compromising the environmental protection offered by the enclosure.

[0017] The forecourt dispenser controller is designed to accommodate a variety of accessory9SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)devices, including single-board computers (SBCs) equipped with operating systems like Linux or Windows. The integration of an SBC allows the controller to run additional software applications that enhance the functionality of the fuel dispensing system. These applications may include sales data collection, communication with point-of-sale (PCS) systems, and back- office management. The SBC acts as a communications bridge between the forecourt dispenser controller and external systems, such as PCS terminals or other networked systems. It can also control other devices within the fuel service station, such as electronic price signs, electric vehicle chargers, or car wash machines.

[0018] The enclosure of the forecourt dispenser controller is designed with openings that align with the data input / output ports of the accessory devices. These openings allow for the connection of data cables, enabling the accessory devices to communicate with external systems. The data interfaces may include Ethernet ports, serial interfaces, or USB connections, depending on the specific accessory device being used. In some configurations, the accessory device can interface with external systems such as POS terminals, back-office applications, and other related software. This allows for seamless integration into the broader infrastructure of the fuel service station, providing a robust and flexible solution for fuel dispensing and management operations.

[0019] The forecourt controller of the present invention will now be described in reference to a known forecourt dispenser controller and to an accessory device or third party computer. The known forecourt dispenser controller comprises: an enclosure for housing all of the hardware components; a central processing unit (CPU); memory means (RAM and storage); input / output ports; a network interface; display and user interface; communication modules; security hardware; sensors and inputs; relays and outputs; power supply (a DC power source, a DC voltage regulator); and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) based on either batteries or supercapacitors. An accessory device may comprise: a computer capable of executing software10SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)based on firmware or on an operating system like Linux or Windows, allowing it to communicate with the forecourt controller, collect sales data, and serve as a communications bridge between the forecourt controller and an external Point of Sales (POS) The system also having a communication interface to connect with third party developer's computer. This data can be utilized for administrative and accounting software applications. The accessory device may also control other devices or equipment in the fuel service station such as, but not limited to, electronic price signs, chargers for electric vehicles, or car wash machines. Said accessory device includes one or more data input / outputs and one or more power inputs.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the forecourt controller of the present invention accommodates and powers at least one accessory device, said forecourt controller including: a housing formed inside the forecourt controller enclosure for retaining and accommodating at least one accessory computer, typically marketed as a Single Board Computer (SBC) equipped with an operating system such as Linux or Windows; at least one power supply located and retained inside the enclosure, such as a DC power source with or without high AC line voltage protection / suppression, and a DC power backup system based on either batteries or supercapacitors, said power supply designed to provide power to the at least one accessory computer. The battery backup line voltage protection are options for an additional embodiment. The controller also includes a DC voltage regulator located and retained inside the enclosure, said regulator being connected to the power supply. The means for adjusting the voltage provided by the power supply is either directly connected to the power supply or to the DC voltage regulator. The controller includes at least one power source output directly connected to the means for adjusting the voltage, wherein the power inputs of the accessory computers are connected to the power source outputs.

[0021] In one embodiment, the forecourt dispenser controller includes an enclosure that houses essential hardware components, which is designed to protect against environmental hazards1 1SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)and provide physical security. The method involves the step of supplying electrical power from a power supply retained inside the enclosure, where incoming AC power is converted to appropriate DC levels. Following this, the step of fine-tuning the voltage output supplied to accessory devices is performed via a voltage adjustment mechanism. This step of voltage adjustment can be achieved through either hardware-based or software-based methods. In addition, the system includes a step of regulating the output voltage through a DC voltage regulator connected to the power supply, ensuring that fluctuations in the incoming power supply are compensated to maintain a stable voltage. The power is then supplied to one or more accessory devices through at least one power source output connected to the voltage adjustment mechanism.

[0022] In some implementations, the method includes the step of using an accessory device, such as a single-board computer equipped with an operating system, for collecting sales data and communicating with external systems, including point-of-sale terminals. Another step involves ensuring uninterrupted operation during power outages by incorporating an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which automatically switches to battery power and recharges when normal power is restored.

[0023] The method further comprises the step of adjusting voltage manually via physical switches or remotely through a software-based control system. Additional steps include routing power and data connections to external devices through openings in the enclosure, which ensures secure connections without compromising environmental protection. To safeguard the controller system, the method includes the step of protecting the system from electrical disturbances using fuses and surge protectors incorporated into the power supply. The method also includes the step of supplying power to multiple accessory devices simultaneously via multi-output channels designed to accommodate varying power requirements.12SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0024] It is additionally noted and anticipated that although the device is shown in its most simple form, various components and aspects of the device may be differently shaped or slightly modified when forming the invention herein. As such those skilled in the art will appreciate the descriptions and depictions set forth in this disclosure or merely meant to portray examples of preferred modes within the overall scope and intent of the invention, and are not to be considered limiting in any manner. While all of the fundamental characteristics and features of the invention have been shown and described herein, with reference to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of modification, various changes and substitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosure and it will be apparent that in some instances, some features of the invention may be employed without a corresponding use of other features without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth. It should also be understood that various substitutions, modifications, and variations may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.13SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Claims

CLAIMS (15)1 . A forecourt dispenser controller, comprising the following parts: a) an enclosure housing with essential hardware components, said enclosure constructed from durable materials to protect against environmental hazards such as dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, while providing physical security; b) communication ports to receive third party computers; c) at least one power supply retained inside the enclosure, configured to convert incoming AC power to appropriate DC levels and designed to provide electrical power to the controller and at least one accessory device housed within the enclosure; d) a voltage adjustment mechanism configured to fine-tune the voltage output supplied to the accessory devices, wherein the voltage adjustment can be achieved either through hardwarebased means or software-based means; e) a DC voltage regulator connected to the power supply, ensuring stable output voltage within acceptable limits, compensating for fluctuations in the incoming power supply; and f) at least one power source output connected to the voltage adjustment mechanism, supplying power to the accessory devices, wherein the power source output is designed to connect to the power inputs of the accessory devices.

2. The forecourt dispenser controller of claim 1 , wherein the accessory device is a single-board computer equipped with an operating system such as Linux or Windows, capable of running software applications related to the fuel dispensing system and having a communication interface to connect with third party developer's computer.14SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)3. The forecourt dispenser controller of claim 1 , wherein the communication ports for third party computer is not physically connected to data lines of the fuel dispenser and cannot interfere with the execution of the firmware that controls the fuel dispenser.

4. The forecourt dispenser controller of claim 1 .wherein the communication ports for third party computers can receive third parties that have software applications and operating systems that run independent of the fuel dispenser.

5. The forecourt dispenser controller of claim 4, wherein the uninterruptible power supply is configured to switch to battery power when a power outage is detected, automatically recharging the batteries when power is restored.

6. The forecourt dispenser controller of claim 1 , wherein the voltage adjustment mechanism includes physical switches or dials for manual adjustment or a software-based voltage regulation system for remote control and monitoring.

7. The forecourt dispenser controller of claim 1 , further comprising protective mechanisms such as fuses and surge protectors, designed to safeguard the power supply and accessory devices from electrical disturbances like power surges and voltage spikes.

8. The forecourt dispenser controller of claim 1 , wherein the power source output is configured to supply power to external accessory devices, with connections routed through specially designed openings in the enclosure to ensure secure and organized cable management.15SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)9. A method of supplying power to a forecourt dispenser controller system, comprising the following steps: a) providing the forecourt dispenser controller of claim 1 ; b) housing essential hardware components of the forecourt dispenser controller within an enclosure designed to protect against environmental hazards and provide physical security; c) supplying electrical power from a power supply retained inside the enclosure, converting incoming AC power to appropriate DC levels; d) fine-tuning the voltage output supplied to the accessory devices via a voltage adjustment mechanism, wherein the voltage adjustment is achieved through hardware-based or softwarebased means; e) regulating the output voltage through a DC voltage regulator connected to the power supply, compensating for fluctuations in the incoming power supply to maintain stable voltage; and f) supplying power to one or more third party computers independent of forecourt controller.

10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the accessory device is a single-board computer equipped with an operating system, used to collect sales data and communicate with external systems, such as point-of-sale terminals.

11. The method of claim 1 , further comprising ensuring uninterrupted operation during power outages using an uninterruptible power supply, wherein the UPS automatically switches to battery power during outages and recharges the batteries when normal power is restored.

12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the voltage adjustment mechanism is operated manually through physical switches or remotely via a software-based control system.16SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)13. The method of claim 1 , further comprising routing power and data connections to external devices through openings in the enclosure, allowing secure connection without compromising environmental protection.

14. The method of claim 1 , further comprising protecting the controller system from electrical disturbances using fuses and surge protectors incorporated into the power supply.

15. The method of claim 1 , wherein the power supply provides power to multiple accessory devices simultaneously through multi-output channels designed to meet varying power requirements.17SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

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