Dispenser Data Distribution with Controllable Disconnectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dispenser data distribution systems lack emergency shutdown capabilities for low voltage data communication circuits, posing safety hazards and requiring manual disconnection of additional data circuits, which is inefficient and unsafe during servicing.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser data distribution system with controllable disconnectors, including an emergency stop control system, relays, data wiring terminals, surge suppressors, and a dispenser data disconnect and bypass circuit, allowing for controlled disconnection of all data circuits from a single switch, enhancing safety and efficiency by isolating data circuits from power sources during emergencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional dispenser data distribution systems are used, then data communication between dispensers and point of sale terminals is maintained, but emergency shutdown capability for low voltage data communication circuits is lacking, creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data communication circuits into individual dispenser-controlled groups, allowing independent disconnection of each dispenser's data circuits through dedicated disconnect switches. This segmentation enables selective emergency shutdown of specific dispenser circuits without affecting the entire system, resolving the contradiction by providing granular control for safety while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary disconnect switches and control circuitry between the power sources and data communication circuits. These intermediaries act as controllable isolation points that can de-energize data circuits during emergencies while allowing normal operation during standard service, thereby providing emergency shutdown capability without permanently complicating the system architecture.
2Ease of operation
If manual disconnection of data circuits is required during servicing, then individual circuit control is possible, but the process is inefficient and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automated control circuits that respond to emergency stop signals by automatically de-energizing data communication circuits. When an emergency stop is activated, the control circuitry automatically triggers disconnect switches to isolate data circuits without requiring manual intervention, thereby improving both safety and operational efficiency simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary action by pre-configuring controllable disconnect switches and control circuitry that are ready to immediately de-energize data circuits upon emergency stop activation. This preliminary preparation ensures that when an emergency occurs, the system can instantly disconnect data circuits without requiring manual disconnection steps, thereby improving both safety response time and operational efficiency.
3Productivity
If a single switch controls multiple data circuits, then disconnection efficiency is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing multi-pole disconnect switches and control circuits that can simultaneously control multiple data circuits through a single emergency stop signal. The control circuitry is designed to universally respond to emergency stop inputs by triggering appropriate disconnect switches for multiple circuits, thereby achieving fast disconnection of multiple circuits without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively addresses safety concerns by enabling controlled disconnection of all data circuits in response to an emergency stop, reducing the risk of ignition sources and simplifying the disconnection process, aligning with safety codes like NFPA 70 and NFPA 30A, while allowing for expansion to control multiple dispensers and data circuits.
Implementation Method 1
relays controlled by the emergency stop status control signal
Data Source
AI summary
A petroleum dispensing system having a dispenser data distribution system with controllable disconnectors for improving on the conventional wiring that connects dispenser data circuits to the system's site controls. The system includes an emergency stop control system, emergency stop disconnects, data wiring terminals, a circuit for connecting and grouping data signals, and dispenser data disconnect and bypass means.