Lubrication system and components of a lubrication system

Abstract

A lubrication system includes one or more lubricant points at which lubricant is put into the system. The lubricant fitting through which lubricant is received can be communicatively connected to a system controller. The lubricant fitting can provide information to the system controller regarding the lubrication point associated with the lubricant fitting.

Description

[0001] LUBRICATION SYSTEM AND COMPONENTS OF A LUBRICATION SYSTEM

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional App. No. 63 / 656,845, filed June 6, 2024 and entitled “LUBRICATION SYSTEM AND COMPONENTS OF A LUBRICATION SYSTEM,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] This disclosure relates to lubrication systems. More specifically, this disclosure relates to components for providing and / or receiving lubricant to lubricated components.

[0006] Many components require periodic lubrication, such as by grease or oil. Some systems include many discrete lubrication points, such as hundreds or thousands, that each require servicing to ensure proper lubrication of components within the system. Typically, an operator will connect a lubricant supply to a lubrication point, such as by connecting a grease gun to a grease fitting, and then provide the lubrication at the lubrication point. Such lubrication events are typically monitored manually, such as by entry on a spreadsheet. Further, different components within the system can require different types of lubricant (e.g., oil or grease, different types of oils, different types of greases, etc.). Care must be taken to avoid applying the incorrect lubricant, which can lead to mixing of incompatible lubricants and damage to machinery.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a lubrication system includes a plurality of lubricating components, the plurality of lubricating components including: an applicator configured to dispense lubricant, the applicator including a pump configured to displace the lubricant; and a lubricant fitting associated with a lubricated component, the lubricant fitting configured to fluidly connect to the applicator to receive the lubricant from the applicator; and a lubricant manager communicatively connected to at least one lubricating component of the plurality of lubricating components, the lubricant manager configured to: provide servicing information to the applicator; and receive dispense information regarding servicing of the lubricant fitting by the applicator.

[0009] According to an additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a lubrication system includes a lubricant applicator configured to dispense lubricant from a reservoir; and a lubricant fitting configured to receive the lubricant at a lubrication point, the lubricant fitting including fitting circuitry configured to: transmit fitting information regarding the lubrication point associated with the lubricant fitting.

[0010] According to another additional or alternative aspect of the present disclosure, a lubricant fitting for use in a lubrication system, the lubricant fitting configured to receive lubricant from a lubricant applicator, the lubricant fitting including a fitting body having a passage therethrough; a check valve configured to prevent retrograde flow of the lubricant through the passage; and fitting circuitry configured to: store fitting information, the fitting information including one or more of fitting identification information and fitting usage information; and transmit the fitting information to a receiver configured to receive the fitting information.

[0011] According to yet another additional or alterative aspect of the present disclosure, an applicator for dispensing lubricant to a lubricant point via a lubricant fitting, the applicator including a pump configured to pump the lubricant to a lubricant outlet; a trigger configured to cause activation of the pump; a sensor configured to output information regarding the lubricant; applicator circuitry configured to: compare a target dispense volume for a lubricating event to a sensed dispense volume generated based on an output of the sensor; control operation of the pump based on the comparison of the target dispense volume and the sensed dispense volume.

[0012] According to yet another additional or alterative aspect of the present disclosure, an applicator for dispensing lubricant to a lubricant point via a lubricant fitting, the applicator including a pump configured to pump the lubricant to a lubricant outlet; a trigger configured to cause activation of the pump; a sensor configured to output information regarding the lubricant; and applicator circuitry configured to control operability of the pump based on an output of the sensor, the applicator circuitry deactivating the pump based on the output indicating a change in a lubricant indicator indicative of the pump running dry.

[0013] According to yet another additional or alterative aspect of the present disclosure, a reservoir for holding a supply of a lubricant to be dispensed by a lubricant applicator, the reservoir including a reservoir housing; a displacer at least partially disposed within the reservoir housing, the displacer configured to bias the lubricant within the reservoir housing towards an outlet of the reservoir housing; and a sensor configured to generate volume information regarding a remaining volume of the lubricant within the reservoir.

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a lubrication system.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing portions of a lubrication system.

[0016] FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a lubricant fitting.

[0017] FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a cross-section of a lubricant fitting.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a lubricant applicator.

[0019] FIG. 5A is a first diagram showing a lubricant cartridge.

[0020] FIG. 5B is a second diagram showing a cross-section of a lubricant cartridge.

[0021] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] This disclosure relates to lubrication. More specifically, this disclosure relates to lubrication systems. Lubrication systems according to the disclosure include one or more lubricating components (e.g., lubricant fittings, lubricant applicators, lubricant cartridges, etc.) communicatively connected together and / or to a lubricant manager, which can include control circuitry and computer readable memory. The lubricating components are configured to supply lubricant to lubricated components (e.g., bearings, gears, wheels, axles, rods, shafts, seals, etc.). The lubricating components can be communicatively connected to the lubricant manager to receive information from and / or provide information to the lubricant manager. While grease is used herein as an exemplar of a type of lubricant, it is understood that the aspects of this disclosure can relate to systems and components for dispensing various different types of lubricants.

[0023] Lubricant managers according to aspects of the disclosure can be configured to provide information to and / or receive information from various lubricating components of a lubrication system. The lubricant manager can be configured to manage and / or report lubricant usage, manage lubrication at various lubrication points, manage lubrication by automatic lubricating components (e.g., applicators that apply lubricant automatically rather than being manually operated by an operator), manage lubricant inventory, among other operations. Some examples of the lubricant manager can be configured for communications outside of the lubrication system, such as with lubricant suppliers, among others.

[0024] Lubricant fittings can be communicatively connected to one or more other lubricating components of the lubrication system and / or to the lubricant manager. The lubricant fitting can be configured to provide information regarding the lubricant point associated with the lubricant fitting. For example, the lubricant fitting can be configured to provide information regarding lubricant type, lubrication frequency, lubrication history, lubrication volume, among other relevant information. The lubricant fitting can be configured for active or passive communications.

[0025] Lubricant applicators can be communicatively connected to one or more other lubricating components of the lubrication system and / or to the lubricant manager. The lubricant applicator is configured to output lubricant to the lubricant fitting to provide the desired lubrication. The lubricant applicator can be configured to receive information regarding the lubricant point associated with a lubricant fitting. The lubricant applicator can be configured to receive information regarding a lubricant in a lubricant reservoir connected to the lubricant applicator. The lubricant applicator can be configured to determine whether to dispense lubricant at a lubricant fitting based on various lubricant information. For example, the lubricant applicator can be configured to compare a lubricant type in the cartridge of the applicator with a lubricant type associated with a lubricant fitting to determine whether to dispense lubricant to the lubricant fitting. The lubricant applicator can be configured to provide information to and / or receive information from the lubricant manager, such as information regarding lubrication type, lubrication frequency, lubrication history, lubrication volume, among other relevant information. The lubricant applicator can be configured for active or passive communications.

[0026] Lubricant reservoirs can be communicatively connected to one or more other lubricating components of the lubrication system and / or to the lubricant manager. The lubricant reservoirs can be configured to provide information regarding the lubricant in the lubricant reservoirs. The lubricant reservoirs can be configured to output information regarding lubrication type, lubrication volume, among other relevant information. The lubricant reservoirs can be configured for active or passive communications. Additionally or alternatively, the lubricant reservoir can include a display for providing information to the user, such as information regarding a remaining volume of lubricant in the reservoir, among other information. The lubricant reservoir can be configured as and / or configured to receive a cartridge that is mountable, removable, and replaceable.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating lubrication system 10. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing portions of lubrication system 10. FIG. 3 A is a diagram showing a lubricant fitting 16. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional diagram of a lubricant fitting 16. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing lubricant applicator 14. FIG. 5A is a diagram showing a lubricant reservoir 18. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional diagram of a lubricant reservoir 18. FIGS. 1-5B are discussed together. Lubrication system 10 includes lubricated components 12, lubricant applicators 14, lubricant fittings 16, lubricant reservoirs 18, lubricant inventory 20, and lubricant manager 22. Lubricant manager 22 includes control circuitry 24, memory 26, and user interface 28.

[0028] Lubrication system 10 is a system that can one or more of provide lubricant, track lubricant dispenses, track lubricant inventory, manager lubricant inventory, manager servicing of lubricated points 30, among other options. The lubrication system 10 can include any desired number of lubricated components 12. The lubricated components 12 can be machinery, bearings, gears, wheels, axles, rods, shafts, seals, etc. that require lubrication during operation. While grease is used herein as an exemplar, it is understood that the lubrication system 10 can be configured to utilize one or many different types of lubricant (e.g., oil or grease). The lubricant can be manually applied at various lubricated points 30 in the lubrication system 10. Some lubrication systems 10 also include lubricated points 30 that are automatically lubricated, such as by a pump building pressure in lubricant injectors causing dispense of lubricant. It is understood that various examples of lubrication system 10 can track and manage inventory of both lubricated points 30 that are automatically serviced and lubricated points 30 that are manually serviced.

[0029] Lubrication system 10 includes multiple lubricated points 30 that require periodic supply of lubricant. The lubricated points 30 can be associated with automatic applicators or manual lubricant applicators 14. The lubricated points 30 associated with the manual lubricant applicators 14 include one or more fittings 16 that are configured to interface with the lubricant applicator 14 to receive the lubricant from the lubricant applicator 14. For example, the lubricant fitting 16 can be configured as a grease zerk.

[0030] The lubricant fitting 16 can be formed as a metallic fitting through which lubricant can be inserted into a mechanical joint that requires periodic lubrication. As best seen in FIG. 3B, the lubricant fitting 16 can include an internal valve 32 that is biased normally closed, in some examples, the lubricant fitting 16 is serviced by the lubricant applicator 14 interfacing with the lubricant fitting 16 and then the pressure of the lubricant opening the internal valve 32 to flow lubricant past the internal valve 32. The internal valve 32 returns to the normally closed state after filling of the lubricant to prevent leakage and ingestion of dust or other contaminants. The fitting 16 can include a threaded shank 33 for connecting to the lubricated component 12.

[0031] Lubricant applicator 14 is configured to provide lubricant to the lubricated points 30 via the lubricant fittings 16. Lubricant applicator 14, which can also be referred to as a lubricant gun, includes a pump 34 configured to drive lubricant from the reservoir 18 and through the fitting 16. It is understood that lubricant applicator 14 can be powered in any desired manner to pump the lubricant. For example, pump 34 can be configured as a manual pump (e.g., in which an operator pulls and releases a trigger 60 to cause reciprocation of a piston of the pump), an electric pump (e.g., in which pulling of the trigger 60 causes an electric motor to drive the pump), a pneumatic pump (e.g., in which pulling of the trigger 60 causes a pneumatic motor to drive the pump), among other options. The applicator 14 can include a handle 62 such that the applicator 14 is configured as a handheld and hand operated applicator 14.

[0032] Reservoir 18 is configured to hold a supply of lubricant. In some examples, reservoir 18 is formed as a cartridge that is mountable to and dismountable from the lubricant applicator 14. The cartridge can be disposable. For example, a cartridge holding a supply of lubricant is mounted to the applicator 14, the lubricant is dispensed, and then the cartridge can be dismounted and disposed of after use.

[0033] The inventory 20 of the lubrication system 10 can include many reservoirs 18 that contain various different lubricants. It is understood that the reservoir 18 can, in some examples, include reservoir housing 36. The reservoir housing 36 can be a structure configured to receive a supply of lubricant directly into the housing 36 or can be formed as a cartridge body that contains the supply of lubricant. In some examples, the reservoir housing 36 is configured to receive a cartridge containing the lubricant, which cartridge is mounted within the reservoir housing 36.

[0034] Lubricant manager 22 is operatively connected, communicatively and / or electronically, to other components of lubrication system 10. Lubricant manager 22 can be operatively connected to one or more of lubricant fitting 16, lubricant applicator 14, and lubricant reservoir 18. Lubricant manager 22 can be configured to receive information from and / or provide information to one or more of lubricant fitting 16, lubricant applicator 14, and lubricant reservoir 18.

[0035] Lubricant manager 22 is configured to store software, implement functionality, and / or process instructions. Lubricant manager 22 can be configured to perform any of the functions discussed herein, including receiving an output from any sensor referenced herein, detecting any condition or event referenced herein, and controlling operation of any components referenced herein. Lubricant manager 22 can be of any suitable configuration for controlling operation of components of lubrication system 10, receiving signals from components of lubrication system 10, providing control signals to components of lubrication system 10, gathering data, processing data, etc. Lubricant manager 22 can include hardware, firmware, and / or stored software, and lubricant manager 1 can be entirely or partially mounted on one or more circuit boards. It is further understood that lubricant manager 22 can be distributed across multiple devices. Lubricant manager 22 can be of any type suitable for operating in accordance with the techniques described herein.

[0036] Control circuitry 24, in one example, is configured to implement functionality and / or process instructions. For example, control circuitry 24 can be capable of processing instructions stored in memory 26. Examples of control circuitry 24 can include one or more of a processor, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a system-on-module (SOM), or other equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. Control circuitry 24 can be entirely or partially mounted on one or more circuit boards.

[0037] Memory 26 can be configured to store information before, during, and / or after operation. Memory 26, in some examples, is described as computer-readable storage media. In some examples, a computer-readable storage medium can include a non- transitory medium. The term “non-transitory” can indicate that the storage medium is not embodied in a carrier wave or a propagated signal. In certain examples, a non-transitory storage medium can store data that can, over time, change (e.g., in RAM or cache). In some examples, memory 26 is a temporary memory, meaning that a primary purpose of memory 26 is not long-term storage. Memory 26, in some examples, is described as volatile memory, meaning that memory 26 does not maintain stored contents when power to lubricant manager 22 is turned off. Examples of volatile memories can include random access memories (RAM), dynamic random access memories (DRAM), static random access memories (SRAM), and other forms of volatile memories. In some examples, memory 26 is used to store program instructions for execution by control circuitry 24. Memory 26, in one example, is used by software or applications to temporarily store information during program execution.

[0038] Memory 26, in some examples, also includes one or more computer- readable storage media. Memory 26 can be configured to store larger amounts of information than volatile memory. Memory 26 can further be configured for long-term storage of information. In some examples, memory 26 includes non-volatile storage elements. Examples of such non-volatile storage elements can include magnetic hard discs, optical discs, flash memories, or forms of electrically programmable memories (EPROM) or electrically erasable and programmable (EEPROM) memories. User interface 28 can be configured as an input and / or output device. For example, user interface 28 can be configured to receive inputs from a user and / or provide outputs regarding the operation of lubrication system 10. Examples of user interface 28 can include one or more of a sound card, a video graphics card, a speaker, a display device (such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc.), a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a smartphone, a tablet, or other type of device for facilitating input and / or output of information in a form understandable to users or machines.

[0039] In some examples, lubricant manager 22 can be configured to manage various aspects of lubrication system 10. As shown in FIG. 1, lubricant manager 22 can be associated with multiple different facilities I la through l ln and can manage various lubrication aspects across such facilities 11. In various other examples, the lubricant manager 22 can be configured as a local manager configured to manager various aspects of a single, local lubrication system 10 (e.g., in a single facility 11).

[0040] Lubricant manager 22 can be configured to track usage of lubricant, such as by tracking usage of reservoirs 18. Lubricant manager 22 can manage inventory 20, such as by tracking usage, tracking individual reservoirs 18, reporting lubricant usage, reporting aspects of inventory 20 (e.g., counts of reservoirs 18, expiration dates for lubricant in inventory 20, etc.), record dispenses of lubricant to lubricated points 30, etc. Lubricant manager 22 can be configured to manage servicing of lubricated points 30 such as by maintaining lubrication on a schedule, providing instructions for lubrication, etc. In some examples, lubricant manager 22 can be configured for communications outside of lubrication system 10. For example, lubricant manager 22 can be configured to communicate outside of lubrication system 10 via a cellular network and / or the Internet, among other options. Lubricant manager 22 can be configured to generate and send data outside of lubrication system 10 to communicate with vendors, such as for pick up of waste lubricant or provision of fresh supply lubricant.

[0041] In some examples, lubricant fitting 16 is configured for communication with one or more other components of lubrication system 10. As shown in FIGS. 2-3B, lubricant fitting 16 can include fitting circuitry 42 configured to store software, implement functionality, and / or process instructions. The fitting circuitry 42 can be disposed within a body of fitting 16 or otherwise operable associated with fitting 16. Fitting circuitry 42 can include control circuitry and memory, among other options. Fitting circuitry 42 can, in some examples, be configured as a transmitter configured to transmit fitting information regarding the lubricant fitting 16 including that fitting circuitry 42. Fitting circuitry 42 can, in some examples, be configured for wireless communications. In some examples, fitting circuitry 42 is configured for radio frequency (RF) communications.

[0042] In some examples, fitting circuitry 42 can be configured for near field communications (NFC). In some examples, fitting circuitry 42 can be considered to form a tag that includes the fitting information. It is understood that fitting circuitry 42 can be configured as an active tag in which fitting circuitry 42 is powered by its own power source, such as a battery or wired electrical connection, or can be configured as a passive tag in which fitting circuitry 42 is powered by the electromagnetism generated by a reader configured to receive information from the fitting circuitry 42. For example, lubricant applicator 14 can include a reader configured as an active component that activates fitting circuitry 42. It is understood that, while fitting circuitry 42 is described as including a transmitter, in various other examples the fitting circuitry 42 can include a transceiver such that fitting circuitry 42 can both send and receive information.

[0043] While fitting circuitry 42 can be configured as a Near Field Communication (“NFC”) device configured to provide the fitting identification data, it is understood that fitting circuitry 42 can additionally or alternatively utilize any desired communication standard to communicate with lubricant manager 22, lubricant applicators 14, etc. For example, fitting circuitry 42 can utilize Bluetooth SIG (e.g., Bluetooth 5, Bluetooth low energy protocol stack, Bluetooth Ultra Low Power, etc.), Wibree, BlueZ, Affix, ISO 13157, IEEE 802 / Wi Fi, ISO / IEC 15693, ISO / IEC 14443, ISM band, WLAN, active RFID (e.g., Active Reader Active Tag), passive RFID (e.g., Active Reader Passive Tag), NFCIP-1, ISO / IEC 18092, among other options. In some examples, fitting circuitry 42 can be configured to communicate wirelessly such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), cellular network, and / or the Internet, among other options.

[0044] Lubricant fitting 16 can be configured to provide the fitting information to various other components of lubrication system 10. The fitting information can include various information regarding the lubricated point 30 associated with the lubricant fitting 16. For example, the fitting information can include information regarding the identity of the lubricated point 30 (i.e., a point identifier), information regarding a lubricant type associated with the lubricated point 30 (i.e., a lubricant identifier), information regarding servicing of the lubricated point 30 (i.e., servicing information), among other information.

[0045] In some examples, lubricant applicator 14 is configured for communication with one or more other components of lubrication system 10. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, lubricant applicator 14 can include applicator circuitry 44 configured to store software, implement functionality, and / or process instructions. Applicator circuitry 44 can include control circuitry and memory, among other options. Applicator circuitry 44 can, in some examples, be configured to both transmit and receive information. As such, applicator 14 can include a transceiver. Applicator circuitry 44 can, in some examples, be configured for wireless communications. In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 is configured for radio frequency (RF) communications.

[0046] In some examples, lubricant applicator 14 is configured for near field communications (NFC). In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 can be considered to form a receiver configured to receive information from other components of lubrication system 10. It is understood that applicator circuitry 44 can be configured as an active receiver in which applicator circuitry 44 is powered by its own power source, such as a battery or wired electrical connection, or can be configured as a passive receiver in which applicator circuitry 44 is powered by the electromagnetism generated by a tag configured to provide information to the applicator circuitry 44. For example, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured as a reader that is active and that activates fitting circuitry 42.

[0047] While applicator circuitry 44 can be configured as a Near Field Communication (“NFC”) device, it is understood that applicator circuitry 44 can additionally or alternatively utilize any desired communication standard to communicate with lubricant manager 22, lubricant fittings 16, lubricant reservoirs 18, etc. For example, applicator circuitry 44 can utilize Bluetooth SIG (e.g., Bluetooth 5, Bluetooth low energy protocol stack, Bluetooth Ultra Low Power, etc.), Wibree, BlueZ, Affix, ISO 13157, IEEE 802 / Wi Fi, ISO / IEC 15693, ISO / IEC 14443, ISM band, WLAN, active RFID (e.g., Active Reader Active Tag), passive RFID (e.g., Active Reader Passive Tag), NFCIP-1, ISO / IEC 18092, among other options. In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to communicate wirelessly such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), cellular network, and / or the Internet, among other options.

[0048] In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 is configured for communication with lubricant manager 22. For example, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to receive information from lubricant manager 22, such as information regarding lubricated points 30, information regarding provision of lubricant, among other options.

[0049] In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 can control the lubricant applicator 14 between operational modes. For example, the applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to control lubricant applicator 14 between a dispense mode and a lock mode. With lubricant applicator 14 in the dispense mode, the lubricant applicator 14 can be operated to dispense lubricant. With lubricant applicator 14 in the lock mode, the lubricant applicator 14 is prevented from dispensing lubricant. For example, applicator circuitry 44 can control a trigger lock 58 between locked and unlocked states to control operation of the lubricant applicator 14.

[0050] In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to control operation of applicator 14 based on the information received from lubricant manager 22. For example, lubricant manager 22 can provide information regarding various lubricated points 30, such as lubrication type, frequency, volume, for the lubricated point 30, among other relevant information and the applicator circuitry 44 can control operation of the lubricant applicator 14 based on such information.

[0051] In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 can control operation of the applicator 14 to provide desired volumes of lubricant during lubricant dispenses. The applicator circuitry 44 can limit operation of the applicator 14 such that the applicator 14 dispenses a target volume. It is understood that the target volume can be provided to applicator circuitry 44 by the user, by lubricant manager 22, by fitting circuitry 42, among other options. Applicator circuitry 44 can control operation of the pump 34, whether driven manually or by a motor, to control dispensing of the lubricant. In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to control a trigger lock 58 between locked and unlocked states to control operation of the lubricant applicator 14. The applicator circuitry 44 can actuate the trigger lock 58 to the locked state, preventing operation of the pump 34 and dispensing of the lubricant, based on a dispensed volume of the lubricant reaching the target dispense volume. In some examples, such as examples in which applicator 14 is electrically or pneumatically powered, the applicator circuitry 44 can stop operation of the driver (e.g., electric or pneumatic motor) based on the dispensed volume reaching the desired dispense volume. In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 can control operation of the driver to cause the pump 34 to pump to the desired volume based on a single actuation of a trigger 60 of the applicator 14.

[0052] Some examples of applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to provide information to the lubricant manager 22. In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to provide information regarding dispense operations of the applicator 14. For example, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to generate dispense information regarding lubricant dispenses performed by the applicator 14. Applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to generate information regarding discrete dispenses performed by the applicator 14. For example, applicator circuitry 44 can generate information regarding each dispense and associate that information with the lubricated point 30 at which that dispense is performed. Such dispense information can include information regarding when the dispense occurred, a volume of lubricant dispensed, the type of lubricant dispensed, an identity of the user performing the dispense, among other options. Applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to provide the information to lubricant manager 22. The applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to communicate the dispense information after each dispense is performed, as a communication including dispense information regarding multiple discrete dispenses, etc. Lubricant manager 22 can utilize the dispense information generated and provided by applicator 14 for management and tracking of inventory 20 and servicing of lubricated points 30, among other options.

[0053] In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to output information to the user. For example, applicator 14 can be configured to output the information to the user via an applicator interface 46. The applicator interface 46 can be configured as a display that outputs visual information. For example, the applicator interface 46 can be configured as a graphical user interface configured to output information to the user, among other options. The applicator interface 46 can be configured to output any desired information to the user, such information regarding lubricant in reservoir 18, information regarding a fitting 16, information regarding one or more lubricated points 30, information regarding dispenses performed by the applicator 14, among other options.

[0054] In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 is configured for communication with lubricant fitting 16. For example, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to receive fitting information from the lubricant fitting 16. The applicator circuitry 44 can, in some examples, control operability of the pump 34 based on the fitting information. In some examples, the fitting circuitry 42 can be configured to transmit fitting information to the applicator circuitry 44 based on the applicator circuitry 44 coming within an operable range of the fitting circuitry 42, among other options.

[0055] In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 can control operation of the applicator 14 based at least in part on the fitting information. For example, the fitting information can include a lubricant type of the lubricant associated with the lubricant fitting 16. The applicator circuitry 44 can compare the allowable lubricant type with the lubricant type being applied by applicator 14. For example, the lubricant type of the reservoir 18 connected to applicator 14 can be provided to applicator circuitry 44 by reservoir circuitry 48 of the reservoir 18 and / or by the user via applicator interface 46 of the applicator 14. The applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to place the applicator 14 in the dispense mode based on the comparison indicating that the lubricant within the reservoir 18 matches (e.g., identical or compatible) with the lubricant of the lubricated point 30. The applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to place or maintain the applicator 14 in the lock mode based on the comparison indicating a mismatch between the lubricant within reservoir 18 and the lubricant of lubricated point 30. Such a configuration prevents inadvertent dispenses of non-compatible lubricants that can damage machinery and operations, thereby providing improved confidence to operators, improving efficiency of lubricating jobs, and decreasing costs.

[0056] In some examples, reservoir 18 is configured for communication with one or more other components of lubrication system 10. As shown in FIGS. 2, 5A, 5B, reservoir 18 can include reservoir circuitry 48 configured to store software, implement functionality, and / or process instructions. Reservoir circuitry 48 can include control circuitry and memory, among other options. Reservoir circuitry 48 can, in some examples, be configured as a transmitter configured to transmit reservoir information. In some examples, the reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured to generate information regarding lubricant within a cartridge mounted to reservoir 18. For example, the reservoir circuitry 48 can be supported by the reservoir housing within which the cartridge is mounted and can generate information regarding the lubricant in cartridge, such as volume information.

[0057] Reservoir circuitry 48 can, in some examples, be configured for wireless communications. In some examples, reservoir circuitry 48 is configured for radio frequency (RF) communications. In some examples, reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured for near field communications (NFC). In some examples, reservoir circuitry 48 can be considered to form a tag that includes the reservoir information. It is understood that reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured as an active tag in which reservoir circuitry 48 is powered by its own power source, such as a battery or wired electrical connection, or can be configured as a passive tag in which reservoir circuitry 48 is powered by the electromagnetism generated by a reader configured to receive information from the reservoir circuitry 48. For example, lubricant applicator 14 can include a reader configured as an active component that activates reservoir circuitry 48. It is understood that, while reservoir circuitry 48 is described as including a transmitter, in various other examples the reservoir circuitry 48 can include a transceiver such that reservoir circuitry 48 can both send and receive information.

[0058] While reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured as a Near Field Communication (“NFC”) device configured to provide the reservoir information, it is understood that reservoir circuitry 48 can additionally or alternatively utilize any desired communication standard to communicate with lubricant manager 22, lubricant fittings 16, lubricant applicators 14, etc. For example, reservoir circuitry 48 can utilize Bluetooth SIG (e.g., Bluetooth 5, Bluetooth low energy protocol stack, Bluetooth Ultra Low Power, etc.), Wibree, BlueZ, Affix, ISO 13157, IEEE 802 / Wi Fi, ISO / IEC 15693, ISO / IEC 14443, ISM band, WLAN, active RFID (e.g., Active Reader Active Tag), passive RFID (e.g., Active Reader Passive Tag), NFCIP-1, ISO / IEC 18092, among other options. In some examples, reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured to communicate wirelessly such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), cellular network, and / or the Internet, among other options.

[0059] Reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured to provide the reservoir information to various other components of lubrication system 10. The reservoir information can include various information regarding the lubricant type within the reservoir 18, a volume of lubricant in the reservoir 18, an expiration date of the lubricant within the reservoir 18, among other information.

[0060] In some examples, reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured to provide information regarding the lubricant within that reservoir 18. For example, the reservoir circuitry 48 can be configured to store information regarding the lubricant type in reservoir 18, the lubricant volume in reservoir 18, etc.

[0061] In some examples, reservoir 18 can include a reservoir interface 50 that is configured to output information to a user. The reservoir interface 50 can be configured as a display configured to provide a visual output. The reservoir interface 50 can be configured as a graphical user interface configured to output information to the user, among other options. The reservoir interface 50 can be configured to output any desired information regarding the lubricant in reservoir 18. For example, the reservoir interface 50 can be configured to output one or more of information regarding a volume of lubricant remaining in reservoir 18, information regarding a lubricant type in reservoir 18, information regarding an expiration date of the lubricant in reservoir 18, among other options. In some examples, information regarding the volume of lubricant remaining in reservoir 18 can be output by one or both of applicator interface 46 and reservoir interface 50. It is understood that some examples may not include both an applicator interface 46 and a reservoir interface 50.

[0062] It is understood that volume information regarding a remaining volume of lubricant within reservoir 18 can be generated in any desired manner. For example, reservoir 18 can include a reservoir sensor 52 can be configured to generate the volume information. Reservoir sensor 52 can be configured as a position sensor configured to generate information regarding the position of a displacer 40 that urges lubricant towards the outlet 38 of the reservoir. For example, the displacer 40 can be a plunger, such as a spring-biased plunger, among other options. Reservoir sensor 52 can be formed as one or more discrete sensors that sense the linear position of the displacer 40. In some examples, displacer 40 can carry or otherwise include one or more magnets and reservoir sensor 52 can be configured to detect the position of displacer 40 based on the magnetic fields emitted by the one or more magnets. For example, reservoir sensor 52 can include one or more Hall-effect sensors configured to generate information based on the sensed magnetic field. The remaining volume of lubricant within reservoir 18 can be determined based on the position of the displacer 40.

[0063] In some examples, a displacement sensor 54 can be configured to generate information regarding operation of pump 34. For example, the displacement sensor 54 can be configured to sense operation of the pump 34 and / or a driver of the pump 34 and can generate information based on such operation. For example, the displacement sensor 54 can be configured to sense movement of a fluid displacer, such as a diaphragm or piston, of the pump 34, the fluid displacer moving to drive the lubricant from the reservoir 18 and out of the applicator 14. For example, displacement sensor 54 can be configured to sense movement of the fluid displacer of the pump 34 and the remaining volume of lubricant in reservoir 18 can be determined based on displacement of the fluid displacer and a known volume displaced by the fluid displacer with each stroke. The volume of lubricant dispensed by applicator 14 and / or remaining in reservoir 18 can be determined based on such information.

[0064] In some examples, such as in examples in which the applicator 14 including a motor (e.g., electric or pneumatic), displacement sensor 54 can be configured to generate information regarding the motor (e.g., count rotations of a rotor, among other options) and the volume pumped by the pump 34, and thus the volume of lubricant remaining in reservoir 18 and / or output by applicator 14, can be determined based on such motor information.

[0065] In some examples, applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to control operation of the pump 34 based on information from parameter sensor 56. The parameter sensor 56 can be configured as a fluid sensor configured to generate information regarding parameters of the pumped lubricant. For example, the parameter sensor 56 can be configured to generate flow information (e.g., regarding a flow rate of the lubricant), pressure information (e.g., regarding a pressure of the lubricant), etc. The parameter sensor 56 can be disposed to generate information regarding the lubricant downstream of the pump 34. The parameter sensor 56 can be disposed to generate the information regarding lubricant upstream of an outlet of the applicator 14 through which the lubricant exits from the applicator 14.

[0066] In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to control operation of the pump 34 based on the parameter information (e.g., the flow rate information and / or the pressure information) generated by the parameter sensor 56. For example, the applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to stop operation of the pump 34 based on the pressure information indicating an unexpected drop in pressure and / or flow rate. Such a parameter drop can be indicative of the reservoir 18 running dry. For example, the output from parameter sensor 56 can indicate a change in the sensed parameter indicative of the pump 34 running dry. In some examples, such a change can be sensed based on a comparison of the sensed parameter and a threshold level, such as a lower pressure threshold. The applicator circuitry 44 can then determine that the change is indicative of the pump 34 running dry based on the sensed parameter value dropping below the threshold parameter value.

[0067] In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to control operation of the pump 34 based on information generated regarding operation of pump 34. For example, the applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to stop operation of the pump 34 based on information regarding operation of the motor and / or pump 34. For example, an unexpected change in motor current or voltage can be indicative of the pump 34 not pumping against pressure and thus running dry.

[0068] Stopping operation of the pump 34, such as by stopping operation of an electric or pneumatic motor and / or by engaging a trigger lock 58, when the reservoir 18 is empty prevents pump runaway in which the pump 34 runs but without the pumped lubricant which can cause the pump 34 to cycle rapidly and / or cause damage to the pump 34 and / or an associated driver.

[0069] The lubricated components 12 require periodic application of additional lubricant. The lubricant is applied at lubricated points 30. Various of the lubricated points 30 are manual points that require servicing by an operator. Lubricant manager 22 can manage lubrication at the lubricated points 30. The lubricant manager 22 can generate information regarding lubricated points 30, such as which lubricated points 30 require servicing and lubricant manager 22 can provide information specific to the lubricating event at each lubricated point 30. In some examples, the lubricant manager 22 can output information, such as via user interface 28, regarding the lubricated points 30 that require servicing.

[0070] In some examples, the lubricant manager 22 can provide such information to the applicator 14, which information can be stored in a memory of the applicator circuitry 44. In some examples, information can be output to the user via the applicator interface 46 of the lubricant applicator 14. For example, a listing of lubricated points 30 that require servicing can be generated and provided to the user. Such a listing can be generated based on the lubricant type of the lubricant connected to the applicator 14. For example, the applicator circuitry 44 can generate a subset of lubricated points 30 provided by the lubricant manager 22 based on the lubricated points 30 having a lubricant type compatible with the lubricant type loaded in the applicator 14. The applicator circuitry 44 can display that subset to the user.

[0071] An operator can service the manual lubricated points 30 with an applicator 14. The operator connects the applicator 14 to the lubricant fitting 16 of the targeted lubricated point 30. In some examples, the lubricant fitting 16 can provide fitting information to the applicator 14. The applicator 14 can, in some examples, be controlled between the dispense mode and the locked mode based on the fitting information. For example, the applicator circuitry 44 can compare lubricant type information from the fitting information to fluid type information for the lubricant being dispensed by the applicator 14. The applicator circuitry 44 can place the applicator 14 in the dispense mode based on the comparison indicating a match between the lubricant type at lubricant fitting 16 and the lubricant type dispensed by applicator 14.

[0072] The operator pulls the trigger 60 to cause dispensing of the lubricant. The pump 34 is operated to pump the lubricant from the reservoir 18 and through the lubricant fitting 16. In some examples, target volume information is associated with the dispense. The target volume information can indicate a desired volume of lubricant for application at the fitting 16.

[0073] In some examples, such target volume information can be provided to the applicator circuitry 44 by fitting circuitry 42, such as based on the applicator 14 coming within an operative range of the fitting 16. In some examples, the volume information can be provided to the applicator circuitry 44 by the operator, such as via the applicator interface 46. In some examples, the volume information can be provided to the applicator circuitry 44 by the lubricant manager 22, such as by lubricant manager 22 specifying dispense volumes for various lubricated points 30.

[0074] In some examples, the target volume information can specify the volume of lubricant to be dispensed at the fitting 16. For example, the volume information provided by the fitting circuitry 42 can specify 2 cubic centimeters (cc) of lubricant for the dispense event. In some examples, the target volume information stored on fitting circuitry 42 can remain constant, such that the target volume information specifies the same volume for each dispense event at that fitting 16. In some example, the target volume information can vary and be dynamic.

[0075] In some examples, the target volume information can vary based on historical data regarding lubrication at that fitting 16. For example, the information regarding lubricant dispenses performed at that fitting 16 can be recorded (e.g., on memory of fitting circuitry 42, on memory of applicator 14, on memory of lubricant manager 22, etc.), such as the time of the servicing, the lubricant volume provided, the lubricant type received, etc. In some examples, the target volume information can be updated based on past dispenses performed at the fitting 16. The fitting circuitry 42 and / or lubricant manager 22 can be configured to generate and / or modify the target volume information based on past dispenses at the fitting 16. For example, the fitting circuitry 42 and / or lubricant manager 22 can record the volumes of past dispenses and can generate a target volume for a next dispense at that fitting 16 based on the volumes previously dispensed.

[0076] In one example, the target volume information can be generated based on servicing frequency and volumes received. For example, a usage rate of the lubricant at the lubricated point 30 can be determined based on the historical information generated regarding servicing of that lubrication point. For example, a first dispense event can indicate that the lubricated point 30 received 2cc of lubricant, a second dispense event occurring 48-hours later can indicate that the lubricated point 30 received 2cc of lubricant, a third dispense event occurring 72-hours later can indicate that the lubricated point 30 received 3cc of lubricant, etc. Based on such historical information, fitting circuitry 42 and / or lubricant manager 22 can determine that the lubricated point 30 should receive an average of lee of lubricant every 24-hours. The fitting circuitry 42 and / or lubricant manager 22 can then generate and provide the volume information based on the determined usage rate. For example, if the fitting 16 is being serviced for the first time in 12-hours, then a target volume indicating 0.5 cc of lubricant can be generated.

[0077] In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 controls dispensing of the lubricant based on the target volume information. As discussed above, the applicator circuitry 44 can control dispensing by the applicator 14 such that the applicator 14 can dispense up to the dispense volume specified by the received volume information. For example, the applicator circuitry 44 can control operation of a driver (e.g., electric motor or pneumatic motor) or a trigger 60 of the applicator 14 to control operation of the pump 34. Such a configuration prevents overfilling and waste of lubricant, thereby decreasing costs and mess while also providing for more efficient lubricant operations.

[0078] While applicator circuitry 44 is described as controlling dispenses based on target volume information, it is understood that not all examples are so limited. In some examples, the operator can cause the applicator 14 to output lubricant at any desired volume to service the lubricant point. One or both of the applicator circuitry 44 and the fitting circuitry 42 can record the volume actually dispensed during the dispense event. The volume actually dispensed can be provided to the lubricant manager 22, such as for tracking servicing history, lubricant inventory, etc.

[0079] After dispensing at the fitting 16, the applicator 14 is disconnected. The operator can then move to another lubricated point 30 to apply lubricant at that lubricated point 30. In some examples, the applicator circuitry 44 is configured to generate dispense information regarding the dispense event. The applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to provide such dispense information to other components of lubrication system 10. For example, the applicator circuitry 44 can determine the actual volume of lubricant dispensed, such as based on information from displacement sensor 54, reservoir sensor 52, parameter sensor 54, etc. The applicator circuitry 44 can provide dispense information to one or both of lubricant manager 22 and fitting 16.

[0080] The applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to transmit dispense information to the fitting 16. The dispense information can be stored in the fitting circuitry 42. The applicator circuitry 44 can be configured to transmit dispense information to the lubricant manager 22. The lubricant manager 22 can record such information to provide records for servicing at various lubricated points 30. In some examples, the fitting circuitry 42 can provide information regarding the dispense event to lubricant manager 22.

[0081] Lubricant manager 22 can provide system-wide management and tracking for lubrication system 10. Lubrication system 10 can include many lubricated components 12, lubricated points 30, lubricant fittings 16, lubricant applicators 14, and lubricant reservoirs 18. Lubricant manager 22 can facilitate overarching control of lubrication system 10. For example, lubricant applicators 14 are usually distributed throughout the lubrication system 10. Some lubricant applicators 14 may be assigned to zones within a facility within which the lubricant applicators 14 are meant to be kept and used. However, the applicators 14 can be taken to other locations within the facility or may be loaded with a different type of lubricant from that normally connected to the applicator 14.

[0082] Fittings 16 including fitting circuitry 42 can facilitate efficient and economical management of lubrication system 10. Fitting circuitry 42 can store and / or provide information regarding the lubricated point 30 associated with that fitting 16. Providing lubricant type information for the lubricated point 30 can prevent application of non-compatible lubricant. The fitting circuitry 42 can record and / or provide information regarding dispenses at that fitting 16, such as to lubricant manager 22. Such a configuration provides for easy and efficient tracking of lubricant servicing throughout lubrication system 10, preventing under- or over- lubrication at the various lubricated points 30. Such a configuration thereby provides for costs savings by preventing undesirable wear and preventing lubricant waste.

[0083] Lubrication system 10 facilitates utilizing the applicators 14 throughout the facility while preventing dispenses of incompatible lubricants. For example, an operator can pick up any applicator 14 and take that applicator 14 to a lubricated point 30. The fitting circuitry 42 provides the fitting information to the applicator 14. The applicator circuitry 44 can allow or prevent dispense of the lubricant based on the fitting information, preventing dispenses of non-compatible lubricants, preventing overuse of lubricant, increasing efficiency of lubricant operations, saving costs, among other advantages. Such a configuration allows for the applicators 14 to be used at any desired location within the facility.

[0084] Reservoirs 18 including reservoir circuitry 48 can facilitate efficient lubricating operations. The reservoir 18 can identify the lubricant type within the reservoir 18 to the applicator circuitry 44. The applicator circuitry 44 thus knows the lubricant type that is being dispensed by the applicator 14. The applicator circuitry 44 can control operation of the applicator 14 to prevent non-compatible dispenses based on the lubricant type provided by the reservoir circuitry 48. Such a configuration can prevent inadvertent dispenses of non-compatible lubricants, such as when the operator misloaded an incompatible lubricant, providing significant cost and time savings. Reservoir 18 can provide information to the user regarding the volume of lubricant remaining in reservoir 18. Such a configuration can provide for more efficient lubricating operations by allowing the user to better plan the amount of lubricant carried with the user and which points 30 to prioritize during servicing.

[0085] Discussion of Non-Exclusive Examples

[0086] The following are non-exclusive descriptions of possible examples according to various aspects of the disclosure.

[0087] A lubrication system includes a plurality of lubricating components, the plurality of lubricating components including: an applicator configured to dispense lubricant, the applicator including a pump configured to displace the lubricant; and a lubricant fitting associated with a lubricated component, the lubricant fitting configured to fluidly connect to the applicator to receive the lubricant from the applicator; and a lubricant manager communicatively connected to at least one lubricating component of the plurality of lubricating components, the lubricant manager configured to: provide servicing information to the applicator; and receive dispense information regarding servicing of the lubricant fitting by the applicator.

[0088] The lubrication system of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and / or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0089] The dispense information is provided to the lubricant manger by the applicator.

[0090] The dispense information is provided to the lubricant manager by the lubricant fitting.

[0091] The servicing information includes fitting identifiers for a plurality of the lubricant fittings, the fitting identifiers uniquely identifying the plurality of fittings.

[0092] The servicing information includes fluid type information for the lubricant fitting.

[0093] The applicator is configured to communicatively connect to the lubricant fitting to receive fitting information from the lubricant fitting.

[0094] The fitting information includes a lubricant type for the fitting. Applicator circuitry of the applicator is configured to: compare the lubricant type for the fitting to a lubricant type being dispensed by the applicator; control the applicator between a dispense state, in which the applicator is able to output the lubricant, and a non-dispense state, in which the applicator is prevented from outputting the lubricant, based on the comparison.

[0095] The applicator circuitry is configured to control a trigger lock of the applicator between a locked state and an unlocked state based on the comparison.

[0096] The applicator circuitry is configured to receive the lubricant type being dispensed by the applicator form reservoir circuitry of a reservoir connected to the applicator, the reservoir holding a supply of the lubricant.

[0097] The applicator circuitry is configured to receive the lubricant type being dispensed by the applicator from an input to an applicator interface of the applicator.

[0098] The applicator interface includes a graphical user interface.

[0099] The applicator circuitry is configured to: control the applicator between the dispense state and the non-dispense state based on dispense volume information.

[0100] Applicator circuitry of the applicator is configured to: control the applicator between a dispense state, in which the applicator is able to output the lubricant, and a non- dispense state, in which the applicator is prevented from outputting the lubricant, based on dispense volume information.

[0101] The applicator circuitry is configured to: control the applicator between the dispense state and the non-dispense state based on a volume comparison between a target volume provided by the dispense volume information and an output volume of the lubricant actually output by the applicator.

[0102] The applicator circuitry is configured to place the applicator into the non- dispense state based on the output volume reaching the target volume.

[0103] A volume sensor configured to generate information regarding the output volume.

[0104] The volume sensor is a displacement sensor configured to generate the information regarding the output volume based on operation of the pump.

[0105] The volume sensor is a motor sensor configured to generate the information regarding the output volume based on operation of the motor that drives the pump.

[0106] The motor is one of an electric motor and a pneumatic motor.

[0107] The volume sensor is a reservoir sensor associated with a reservoir connected to the applicator, the reservoir holding the lubricant. The volume sensor is configured to generate the information regarding the output volume based on a position of a displacer of the reservoir, the displacer biasing the lubricant in the reservoir fluidly towards the pump.

[0108] The dispense volume information is communicated to the applicator circuitry by fitting circuitry of the lubricant fitting.

[0109] The dispense volume information is communicated to the applicator circuitry by fitting circuitry of the level manager.

[0110] The dispense volume information is communicated to the applicator circuitry via an applicator interface of the applicator, the applicator interface configured to receive the dispense volume information as an input from a user.

[0111] A reservoir configured to store the lubricant, the reservoir including reservoir circuitry and a reservoir sensor, the reservoir sensor configured to generate reservoir volume information regarding a volume of available lubricant within the reservoir.

[0112] The reservoir includes a displacer configured to generate a pressure on the lubricant within the reservoir, the displacer moving within the reservoir with a decreasing lubricant level in the reservoir.

[0113] The reservoir sensor is configured to generate the reservoir volume information based on a position of the displacer.

[0114] The reservoir includes a reservoir interface, the reservoir interface configured to output the reservoir volume information.

[0115] The reservoir interface includes a graphical user interface.

[0116] The applicator includes a parameter sensor configured to generate parameter information regarding a parameter of the lubricant output from the pump.

[0117] The parameter is lubricant pressure.

[0118] The lubricant manager is configured to generate inventory information.

[0119] The lubricant manager is configured to generate and send communications outside of the lubrication system.

[0120] A lubrication system comprising: a lubricant applicator configured to dispense lubricant from a reservoir; and a lubricant fitting configured to receive the lubricant at a lubrication point, the lubricant fitting including fitting circuitry configured to: transmit fitting information regarding the lubrication point associated with the lubricant fitting. The lubrication system of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and / or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0121] The fitting information includes fluid type information.

[0122] The fitting information includes volume information.

[0123] The fitting circuitry is configured to modify the fitting information.

[0124] The fitting circuitry is configured to generate historical information regarding one or more lubricant dispenses at the lubricant fitting.

[0125] The fitting circuitry is configured to transmit the historical information to a lubricant manager, the lubricant manager including control circuitry configured to receive the historical information from the fitting circuitry.

[0126] A lubricant fitting for use in a lubrication system, the lubricant fitting configured to receive lubricant from a lubricant applicator, the lubricant fitting comprising: a fitting body having a passage therethrough; a check valve configured to prevent retrograde flow of the lubricant through the passage; and fitting circuitry configured to: store fitting information, the fitting information including one or more of fitting identification information and fitting usage information; and transmit the fitting information to a receiver configured to receive the fitting information.

[0127] The lubricant fitting of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and / or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0128] The fitting information includes the fitting identification information that uniquely identifies the lubricant fitting.

[0129] The fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a lubricant type associated with the lubricant fitting.

[0130] The fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a target lubricant volume associated with the lubricant fitting.

[0131] The target lubricant volume is generated by the fitting circuitry based on historical servicing information for the fitting.

[0132] The fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a component identifier that identifies a lubricated component with which the lubricant fitting is associated. The fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a component location, the component location providing locational information for a lubricated component with which the lubricant fitting is associated.

[0133] The fitting information includes the fitting usage information, the fitting usage information including historical servicing information.

[0134] The historical servicing information includes information regarding frequency of past servicing of the lubricant fitting.

[0135] The historical servicing information is written to the fitting circuitry.

[0136] The historical servicing information is generated by the fitting circuitry. The fitting circuitry is at least partially disposed within the fitting body.

[0137] The fitting circuitry is configured to communicate via radio frequency communications.

[0138] The fitting circuitry is configured as a passive tag.

[0139] The fitting circuitry includes a one wire interface including a two pin protocol with a signal pin and a ground pin.

[0140] An applicator for dispensing lubricant to a lubricant point via a lubricant fitting, the applicator comprising: a pump configured to pump the lubricant to a lubricant outlet; a trigger configured to cause activation of the pump; a sensor configured to output information regarding the lubricant; applicator circuitry configured to: compare a target dispense volume for a lubricating event to a sensed dispense volume generated based on an output of the sensor; control operation of the pump based on the comparison of the target dispense volume and the sensed dispense volume.

[0141] The applicator of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and / or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0142] The lubricant is grease.

[0143] The applicator circuitry is configured to deactivate the pump based on the sensed dispense volume reaching the target dispense volume.

[0144] The applicator further comprises an applicator interface, wherein the target dispense volume is generated based on an input to the applicator interface by a user.

[0145] The applicator circuitry is configured to receive the target dispense volume via wireless communications.

[0146] The applicator circuitry is configured as an active tag.

[0147] The applicator circuitry is configured for radio frequency communications. The sensor is configured to generate the output based on operation of the pump.

[0148] The pump includes a piston configured to reciprocate to pump the lubricant.

[0149] A motor connected to the pump to operate the pump.

[0150] The motor is an electric motor.

[0151] The pump includes a piston configured to reciprocate to pump the lubricant; the sensor is configured to generate the output based on displacement of the piston.

[0152] A motor connected to the pump to operate the pump; wherein the sensor is configured to generate the output based on operation of the motor.

[0153] The motor is an electric motor.

[0154] The applicator circuitry is further configured to: control operability of the pump based on a parameter output of the sensor, the applicator circuitry deactivating the pump based on the parameter output indicating a change in a parameter value of the lubricant indicative of the pump running dry.

[0155] The change in the parameter value of the lubricant is a sensed pressure of the lubricant falling below a lower pressure threshold.

[0156] An applicator for dispensing lubricant to a lubricant point via a lubricant fitting, the applicator comprising: a pump configured to pump the lubricant to a lubricant outlet; a trigger configured to cause activation of the pump; a sensor configured to output information regarding the lubricant; and applicator circuitry configured to control operability of the pump based on an output of the sensor, the applicator circuitry deactivating the pump based on the output indicating a change in a lubricant indicator indicative of the pump running dry.

[0157] The applicator of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and / or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0158] The sensor is a parameter sensor configured to generate parameter information regarding a parameter of the lubricant at a location downstream of the pump, and wherein the change in a lubricant indicator is a change in a parameter value of the parameter.

[0159] The sensor is a pressure sensor and the parameter is lubricant pressure.

[0160] The sensor is a reservoir sensor configured to generate volume information regarding a volume of lubricant in a reservoir holding a supply of the lubricant, wherein the change in the lubricant indicator is determined based on the volume of lubricant in the reservoir falling below a threshold reservoir level.

[0161] The sensor is configured to generate the volume information based on a position of a displacer within the reservoir.

[0162] The displacer is a piston.

[0163] A reservoir for holding a supply of a lubricant to be dispensed by a lubricant applicator, the reservoir comprising: a reservoir housing; a displacer at least partially disposed within the reservoir housing, the displacer configured to bias the lubricant within the reservoir housing towards an outlet of the reservoir housing; and a sensor configured to generate volume information regarding a remaining volume of the lubricant within the reservoir.

[0164] The reservoir of the preceding paragraph can optionally include, additionally and / or alternatively, any one or more of the following features, configurations and / or additional components:

[0165] A reservoir display configured to provide an output regarding the remaining volume of the lubricant within the reservoir.

[0166] The reservoir display is configured to provide a visual output.

[0167] Reservoir circuitry configured to store a lubricant identifier for the lubricant disposed within the reservoir housing, the reservoir circuitry further configured to communicate the lubricant identifier to the applicator.

[0168] The reservoir circuitry includes a passive tag configured to communicate the lubricant identifier.

[0169] The displacer is biased by a spring.

[0170] While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment(s), it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A lubrication system comprising: a plurality of lubricating components, the plurality of lubricating components including: an applicator configured to dispense lubricant, the applicator including a pump configured to displace the lubricant; a lubricant fitting associated with a lubricated component, the lubricant fitting configured to fluidly connect to the applicator to receive the lubricant from the applicator; a lubricant manager communicatively connected to at least one lubricating component of the plurality of lubricating components, the lubricant manager configured to: provide servicing information to the applicator; and receive dispense information regarding servicing of the lubricant fitting by the applicator.

2. The lubrication system of claim 1, wherein the dispense information is provided to the lubricant manger by the applicator.

3. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the dispense information is provided to the lubricant manager by the lubricant fitting.

4. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the servicing information includes fitting identifiers for a plurality of the lubricant fittings, the fitting identifiers uniquely identifying the plurality of fittings.

5. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the servicing information includes fluid type information for the lubricant fitting.

6. The lubrication system of claim 1, wherein: the applicator is configured to communicatively connect to the lubricant fitting to receive fitting information from the lubricant fitting.

7. The lubrication system of claim 6, wherein the fitting information includes a lubricant type for the fitting.

8. The lubrication system of claim 7, wherein applicator circuitry of the applicator is configured to: compare the lubricant type for the fitting to a lubricant type being dispensed by the applicator;control the applicator between a dispense state, in which the applicator is able to output the lubricant, and a non-dispense state, in which the applicator is prevented from outputting the lubricant, based on the comparison.

9. The lubrication system of claim 8, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to control a trigger lock of the applicator between a locked state and an unlocked state based on the comparison.

10. The lubrication system of any one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to receive the lubricant type being dispensed by the applicator form reservoir circuitry of a reservoir connected to the applicator, the reservoir holding a supply of the lubricant.

11. The lubrication system of any one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to receive the lubricant type being dispensed by the applicator from an input to an applicator interface of the applicator.

12. The lubrication system of claim 11, wherein the applicator interface includes a graphical user interface.

13. The lubrication system of any one of claims 8-12, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to: control the applicator between the dispense state and the non-dispense state based on dispense volume information.

14. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1-7 wherein applicator circuitry of the applicator is configured to: control the applicator between a dispense state, in which the applicator is able to output the lubricant, and a non-dispense state, in which the applicator is prevented from outputting the lubricant, based on dispense volume information.

15. The lubrication system of any one of claims 13 and 14, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to: control the applicator between the dispense state and the non-dispense state based on a volume comparison between a target volume provided by the dispense volume information and an output volume of the lubricant actually output by the applicator.

16. The lubrication system of claim 15, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to place the applicator into the non-dispense state based on the output volume reaching the target volume.

17. The lubrication system of any one of claims 15 and 16, further comprising a volume sensor configured to generate information regarding the output volume.

18. The lubrication system of claim 17, wherein the volume sensor is a displacement sensor configured to generate the information regarding the output volume based on operation of the pump.

19. The lubrication system of claim 18, wherein the volume sensor is a motor sensor configured to generate the information regarding the output volume based on operation of the motor that drives the pump.

20. The lubrication system of claim 19, wherein the motor is one of an electric motor and a pneumatic motor.

21. The lubrication system of claim 17 , wherein the volume sensor is a reservoir sensor associated with a reservoir connected to the applicator, the reservoir holding the lubricant.

22. The lubrication system of claim 21 , wherein the volume sensor is configured to generate the information regarding the output volume based on a position of a displacer of the reservoir, the displacer biasing the lubricant in the reservoir fluidly towards the pump.

23. The lubrication system of any one of claims 15-22, wherein the dispense volume information is communicated to the applicator circuitry by fitting circuitry of the lubricant fitting.

24. The lubrication system of any one of claims 15-22, wherein the dispense volume information is communicated to the applicator circuitry by fitting circuitry of the level manager.

25. The lubrication system of any one of claims 15-22, wherein the dispense volume information is communicated to the applicator circuitry via an applicator interface of the applicator, the applicator interface configured to receive the dispense volume information as an input from a user.

26. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1-25, further comprising: a reservoir configured to store the lubricant, the reservoir including reservoir circuitry and a reservoir sensor, the reservoir sensor configured togenerate reservoir volume information regarding a volume of available lubricant within the reservoir.

27. The lubrication system of claim 26, wherein the reservoir includes a displacer configured to generate a pressure on the lubricant within the reservoir, the displacer moving within the reservoir with a decreasing lubricant level in the reservoir.

28. The lubrication system of claim 27, wherein the reservoir sensor is configured to generate the reservoir volume information based on a position of the displacer.

29. The lubrication system of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the reservoir includes a reservoir interface, the reservoir interface configured to output the reservoir volume information.

30. The lubrication system of claim 29, wherein the reservoir interface includes a graphical user interface.

31. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1-30, wherein the applicator includes a parameter sensor configured to generate parameter information regarding a parameter of the lubricant output from the pump.

32. The lubrication system of claim 31, wherein the parameter is lubricant pressure.

33. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1-32, wherein the lubricant manager is configured to generate inventory information.

34. The lubrication system of any one of claims 1-33, wherein the lubricant manager is configured to generate and send communications outside of the lubrication system.

35. A lubrication system comprising: a lubricant applicator configured to dispense lubricant from a reservoir; a lubricant fitting configured to receive the lubricant at a lubrication point, the lubricant fitting including fitting circuitry configured to: transmit fitting information regarding the lubrication point associated with the lubricant fitting.

36. The lubrication system of claim 35, wherein the fitting information includes fluid type information.

37. The lubrication system of any one of claims 35 and 36, wherein the fitting information includes volume information.

38. The lubrication system of any one of claims 35-37, wherein the fitting circuitry is configured to modify the fitting information.

39. The lubrication system of any one of claims 35-38, wherein the fitting circuitry is configured to generate historical information regarding one or more lubricant dispenses at the lubricant fitting.

40. The lubrication system of claim 39, wherein the fitting circuitry is configured to transmit the historical information to a lubricant manager, the lubricant manager including control circuitry configured to receive the historical information from the fitting circuitry.

41. A lubricant fitting for use in a lubrication system, the lubricant fitting configured to receive lubricant from a lubricant applicator, the lubricant fitting comprising: a fitting body having a passage therethrough; a check valve configured to prevent retrograde flow of the lubricant through the passage; and fitting circuitry configured to: store fitting information, the fitting information including one or more of fitting identification information and fitting usage information; and transmit the fitting information to a receiver configured to receive the fitting information.

42. The lubricant fitting of claim 41, wherein the fitting information includes the fitting identification information that uniquely identifies the lubricant fitting.

43. The lubricant fitting of claim 41, wherein the fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a lubricant type associated with the lubricant fitting.

44. The lubricant fitting of claim 41, wherein the fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a target lubricant volume associated with the lubricant fitting.

45. The lubricant fitting of claim 44, wherein the target lubricant volume is generated by the fitting circuitry based on historical servicing information for the fitting.

46. The lubricant fitting of claim 41, wherein the fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a component identifier that identifies a lubricated component with which the lubricant fitting is associated.M . The lubricant fitting of claim 41, wherein the fitting information includes the fitting identification information that includes a component location, the component location providing locational information for a lubricated component with which the lubricant fitting is associated.

48. The lubricant fitting of claim 41, wherein the fitting information includes the fitting usage information, the fitting usage information including historical servicing information.

49. The lubricant fitting of claim 48, wherein the historical servicing information includes information regarding frequency of past servicing of the lubricant fitting.

50. The lubricant fitting of any one of claims 48 and 49, wherein the historical servicing information is written to the fitting circuitry.

51. The lubricant fitting of any one of claims 48 and 49, wherein the historical servicing information is generated by the fitting circuitry.

52. The lubricant fitting of any one of claims 41-51, wherein the fitting circuitry is at least partially disposed within the fitting body.

53. The lubricant fitting of any one of claims 41-52, wherein the fitting circuitry is configured to communicate via radio frequency communications.

54. The lubricant fitting of any one of claims 41-53, wherein the fitting circuitry is configured as a passive tag.

55. The lubricant fitting of any one of claims 41-53, wherein the fitting circuitry includes a one wire interface including a two pin protocol with a signal pin and a ground pin.

56. An applicator for dispensing lubricant to a lubricant point via a lubricant fitting, the applicator comprising: a pump configured to pump the lubricant to a lubricant outlet; a trigger configured to cause activation of the pump; a sensor configured to output information regarding the lubricant; applicator circuitry configured to: compare a target dispense volume for a lubricating event to a sensed dispense volume generated based on an output of the sensor; control operation of the pump based on the comparison of the target dispense volume and the sensed dispense volume.

57. The applicator of claim 56, wherein the lubricant is grease.

58. The applicator of any one of claims 56 and 57, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to deactivate the pump based on the sensed dispense volume reaching the target dispense volume.

59. The applicator of any one of claims 56-58, wherein the applicator further comprises an applicator interface, wherein the target dispense volume is generated based on an input to the applicator interface by a user.

60. The applicator of any one of claims 56-59, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured to receive the target dispense volume via wireless communications.

61. The applicator of claim 60, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured as an active tag.

62. The applicator of claim 60, wherein the applicator circuitry is configured for radio frequency communications.

63. The applicator of any one of claims 56-62, wherein the sensor is configured to generate the output based on operation of the pump.

64. The applicator of any one of claims 56-63, wherein the pump includes a piston configured to reciprocate to pump the lubricant.

65. The applicator of claim 64, further comprising: a motor connected to the pump to operate the pump.

66. The applicator of claim 65, wherein the motor is an electric motor.

67. The applicator of any one of claims 56-62, wherein: the pump includes a piston configured to reciprocate to pump the lubricant; the sensor is configured to generate the output based on displacement of the piston.

68. The applicator of any one of claims 56-62, further comprising: a motor connected to the pump to operate the pump; wherein the sensor is configured to generate the output based on operation of the motor.

69. The applicator of claim 68, wherein the motor is an electric motor.

70. The applicator of any one of claims 56-69, wherein the applicator circuitry is further configured to: control operability of the pump based on a parameter output of the sensor, the applicator circuitry deactivating the pump based on the parameter output indicating a change in a parameter value of the lubricant indicative of the pump running dry.

71. The applicator of claim 70, wherein the change in the parameter value of the lubricant is a sensed pressure of the lubricant falling below a lower pressure threshold.

72. An applicator for dispensing lubricant to a lubricant point via a lubricant fitting, the applicator comprising: a pump configured to pump the lubricant to a lubricant outlet; a trigger configured to cause activation of the pump; a sensor configured to output information regarding the lubricant; and applicator circuitry configured to control operability of the pump based on an output of the sensor, the applicator circuitry deactivating the pump based on the output indicating a change in a lubricant indicator indicative of the pump running dry.

73. The applicator of claim 72, wherein the sensor is a parameter sensor configured to generate parameter information regarding a parameter of the lubricant at a location downstream of the pump, and wherein the change in a lubricant indicator is a change in a parameter value of the parameter.

74. The applicator of claim 73, wherein the sensor is a pressure sensor and the parameter is lubricant pressure.

75. The applicator of claim 72, wherein the sensor is a reservoir sensor configured to generate volume information regarding a volume of lubricant in a reservoir holding a supply of the lubricant, wherein the change in the lubricant indicator is determined based on the volume of lubricant in the reservoir falling below a threshold reservoir level.

76. The applicator of claim 75, wherein the sensor is configured to generate the volume information based on a position of a displacer within the reservoir.

77. The applicator of claim 76, wherein the displacer is a piston.

78. A reservoir for holding a supply of a lubricant to be dispensed by a lubricant applicator, the reservoir comprising: a reservoir housing; a displacer at least partially disposed within the reservoir housing, the displacer configured to bias the lubricant within the reservoir housing towards an outlet of the reservoir housing; and a sensor configured to generate volume information regarding a remaining volume of the lubricant within the reservoir.

79. The reservoir of claim 78, further comprising:a reservoir display configured to provide an output regarding the remaining volume of the lubricant within the reservoir.

80. The reservoir of claim 79, wherein the reservoir display is configured to provide a visual output.

81. The reservoir of any one of claims 78-80, further comprising: reservoir circuitry configured to store a lubricant identifier for the lubricant disposed within the reservoir housing, the reservoir circuitry further configured to communicate the lubricant identifier to the applicator.

82. The reservoir of claim 81 , wherein the reservoir circuitry includes a passive tag configured to communicate the lubricant identifier.

83. The reservoir of any one of claims 78-82, wherein the displacer is biased by a spring.

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