Systems and methods for monitoring and controlling dispenser fluid refill
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid dispensers are vulnerable to improper or unauthorized refilling, especially those using external refill containers, as they can be filled with incorrect or unauthorized fluids through the external supply port, posing challenges in ensuring the correct type and quality of fluid is used.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that includes a controller communicating with a memory storage device in the external refill container, which transmits authorization data to the dispenser, and a self-sealing quick disconnect connector with an RFID transponder, ensuring only authorized refills are accepted and preventing unauthorized access to the supply port.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an external refill container is used to supply fluid to the dispenser, then refilling convenience is improved, but vulnerability to unauthorized refilling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an RFID transponder as an intermediary authentication mechanism between the refill container and dispenser. The transponder stores authorization data that must be verified by the dispenser's controller before allowing fluid transfer, creating a trusted intermediary layer that maintains convenience while ensuring security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical authorization mechanisms (such as physical keys or manual verification) with an RFID-based electromagnetic authentication system. This substitution maintains ease of operation while providing more reliable authorization control through electronic verification of the refill container's authenticity.
2Ease of operation
If a supply port is provided for external refilling, then ease of refilling is improved, but security against unauthorized access deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by requiring authorization verification before the supply port is activated for refilling. The RFID authentication occurs in advance, and only after successful verification does the system enable fluid transfer, preventing unauthorized access before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID transponder and controller work as an intermediary authentication layer between the refill container and the supply port. This intermediary verifies authorization data before permitting the supply port to be used, blocking unauthorized access while maintaining ease of refilling for authorized users.
3Reliability
If mechanical or magnetic keyed arrangements are used to prevent unauthorized refilling, then authorization control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or magnetic keyed arrangements with a simpler RFID-based electromagnetic authentication system. The RFID transponder contains authorization data that can be read wirelessly by the dispenser's controller, eliminating the need for physical keys or complex mechanical locking mechanisms while maintaining strong authorization control.
4Reliability
If RFID transponder with memory storage is implemented, then authorization security is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements RFID transponders with memory storage devices in the refill containers, which are relatively low-cost electronic components. The authorization security is improved through the use of these affordable RFID tags that can store and transmit authentication data, making the security enhancement economically viable for mass-produced refill containers.
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
This solution effectively prevents unauthorized refilling by ensuring only authorized and correct fluids are added to the dispenser, enhancing the security and reliability of the refilling process while maintaining user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a self-sealing quick disconnect connector with an RFID transponder
Data Source
AI summary
A counter mountable fluid dispenser includes a below deck reservoir for storing a fluid comprising at least one of a soap, an anti-bacterial cleanser, a disinfectant, and a lotion, an above deck spout including an outlet port in fluid communication with the reservoir for dispensing fluid stored in the reservoir and an external supply port connected with the reservoir by a supply passage to supply fluid to the reservoir, a supply access valve connected with the supply passage and operable to block flow from the external supply port to the reservoir in a closed position and to permit flow from the external supply port to the reservoir in the open position, and a controller in communication with the supply access valve for controller operation of the supply access valve from a closed position to an open position in response to receipt of an authorized supply signal at the controller.